About
Committed to telling global stories with social impact that lead to understanding, compassion, and connection
Jessica Marcy
I am an award-winning journalist and filmmaker with extensive experience in non-profit communications. I believe in the power of stories to help us make sense of the world and envision the one we want to create. I founded Lumin Productions, LLC, to do just that.
I was a 2021 Pulitzer Center Reporting Fellow and reported on the intersection of climate change and migration in the largely Indigenous Western Highlands of Guatemala. Previously, I worked as creative team lead at the American Institutes for Research, a non-profit that works on education, health, international development, and other social issues. In that role, I managed a team of videographers, graphic designers, animators, and photographers. I oversaw visual creative work and was involved in all aspects of video from pre-production planning to interviewing, filming, and editing.
Before that, I was a reporter at The Roanoke Times and Kaiser Health News. I covered health care issues for KHN and their partners including The Washington Post, NPR, MSNBC and McClatchy.
I am a curious and continuous learner who loves traveling and learning about other cultures. I speak Spanish, French, and Bambara (a major West African language). I’ve also worked as a reporter in Peru and a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali, where I worked on a variety of health and water sanitation projects.
I studied Latin American studies at Barnard College and magazine writing at the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism, where I earned a Master of Science (MS). I also hold a graduate certificate in documentary filmmaking from the George Washington University and a Master in Fine Arts (MFA) in film from American University.
“I worked closely with Jessica for several years, and there’s no exaggeration when I say she’s the best colleague and creative partner you can have on your team….”
— Rick Burks, Broadcast Director at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and Videographer at the American Institutes for Research
I believe that our values shape the creative process and ultimately the quality of the work we create.
My work reflects these core values:
Listening
True understanding comes from deep listening. I use my journalism skills to research an issue and then really listen to the people who are most affected and knowledgeable.
Collaboration
Filmmaking is a collaborative sport. I work closely with characters and clients to tell their stories authentically and honestly. I believe in the value of teamwork and know that by bringing together our individual talents and ideas, we can make something better together.
Empathy
Filmmaking is most powerful when we can connect to characters and tap into their feelings and motives. To do that, it’s critical to have empathy or “the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.” Empathy creates memorable characters and stories that stay with us. In turn, compelling stories create empathy.
Purpose
Our purpose shapes the stories we tell and the work we do. Purpose allows us to communicate a higher or more universal message. By finding the true north of our work, we can create a bigger and more lasting impact.
Wonder
Wonder can guide us to what sparks curiosity, inspiration, and joy. I believe in the beauty of color and light. I believe in giving people voice and making hidden stories visible. I believe in the healing power of the creative process and the wonder of the filmmaking journey.
“… Jessica’s customer service is outstanding. We felt listened to and accompanied in the process. We will definitely look for an opportunity to work with her again in the future.”
— Roberta Oliviera-Alves, AVSI-USA Communications and Outreach Manager
