Mission
At the Barbara Geralds Institute for Storytelling and Social Impact, we weave together meaningful stories with those who live them. We foster collaborative storytelling and advance narrative scholarship to catalyze collective action.
About The Institute
The Barbara Geralds Institute for Storytelling and Social Impact at Ohio University was founded with the support of Barbara Geralds and inspired by the work of Dr. Lynn M. Harter. Established to merge storytelling with academic research for social change, the institute has excelled in documentary filmmaking and podcasting, producing impactful works like the Emmy award-winning series "The Courage of Creativity." Over 500 undergraduate, graduate, and medical students have gained practical experience through these projects, which also involve collaboration with community organizations to raise awareness and funds for causes such as childhood cancer. The institute remains dedicated to fostering understanding and driving social change through innovative storytelling and community engagement.
Reaching and Empowering More Students
Our Narrative Work
The Storytelling Institute produces stories alongside campus and community partners that invite viewers, readers, and listeners to shift perspective and imagine new normals. We work to foster inclusive and vibrant communities and are committed to social justice. The settings of our stories are eclectic, ranging from oncology wards to social support groups and food banks. Our narrative scholarship aims to improve communication and well-being for individuals, groups, and communities. We use emergent technologies to tell stories in innovative ways that enrich human development and advance collective memory.
Leadership and Partners
The Barbara Geralds Institute for Storytelling and Social Impact boasts a distinguished leadership team, including Co-Directors Dr. Lynn M. Harter and Tom Hodson (Emeritus), Associate Director Dr. Joe Bianco, Chief Video Producer Megan Westervelt, and Community Fellow Patty Mitchell. Their combined expertise in communication, media, narrative medicine, and community engagement drives our mission. We thrive on strong partnerships with non-profits, granting agencies, and private industry to amplify our storytelling initiatives. Our advisory council, composed of diverse faculty and staff, guides our mission, organizes forums, and recruits speakers. Together, we advance narrative scholarship and foster meaningful community engagement.
Contact Us
For information about the Storytelling Institute and how to support it, please contact Lynn Harter at harter@ohio.edu or Amanda DeWees at deweesa@ohio.edu.