In a remarkable journey from filmmaking to environmental advocacy, Deborah Garcia Hillsdale, who graduated from The Seven Hills School in 1967, transitioned her environmentalist focus into a newfound focal point of soil conservation, as highlighted in her documentary Symphony of the Soil. Hillsdale is an example of what Seven Hills looks for in alum speakers. The Head of Upper School, Matt Bolton, states that the speakers have discovered their “purpose for life.” Hillsdale embodies this principle by encouraging the community to give back in various ways.
Hillsdale’s story begins in her teenage years, where she demonstrated an early interest in science by conducting experiments that earned her recognition at the Cincinnati Engineering Society Science Fair. Her journey continued at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where she initially studied English for three years before focusing on the world of film. Graduating in 1971, she immersed herself in filmmaking, creating short fictional films that set the stage for her future endeavors.
It was during her time in San Francisco, after moving there, that Hillsdale earned her master’s in film at the San Francisco Art Institute. Her commitment to health and the environment, influenced by the Earth-loving principles of the era, became evident as she embraced a meat-free diet and advocated for healthy food. This philosophy still guides her environmentalist stance today.
Hillsdale’s filmmaking career spans over 30 years, encompassing notable works such as Poco Loco(1995) and The Future of Food (2004). Her latest documentary, Symphony of the Soil (2012), marks a significant shift in focus as she delves into the pressing issue of soil degradation. The film takes viewers on a global journey, exploring regenerative farming methods and challenging the impact of industrial agriculture on soil health.
Beyond her professional achievements, Hillsdale’s personal life intertwines with her environmental pursuits. Widowed in 1995 after the death of Grateful Dead frontman Jerry Garcia, her late husband’s influence is evident in her appreciation for music, reflected in the title of her latest documentary. Their relationship, characterized by shared passions for film and music, inspired each other’s creative pursuits.
Hillsdale’s dedication extends beyond Symphony of the Soil, with extensions like Sonatas of the Soil, aiming to explore various facets of soil conservation. As Seven Hills School prepares to host Hillsdale on March 3rd, students can anticipate gaining insights into the life of a multifaceted individual whose journey from a young botanist to an environmental advocate has left an indelible mark on the film industry and the world of conservation. Deborah Garcia Hillsdale’s story is a testament to the transformative power of purpose and the impact one person can make on the environment.
