PHOTOJOURNALIST, FILM, ECOLOGY

MELISSA LUKENBAUGH

Melissa is a photojournalist and documentarian trained in qualitative research methods positioned to bridge the gap between science, policy and public impact. Her work centers on the tension and hopeful innovation between extractivism, adaptation, conservation, and economy in the ultimate service of human health and well-being. She earned her BA from Oklahoma State University in English Literature, her documentary filmmaking credentials from the Duke Center for Documentary Studies and Master’s Degree of International Development with a focus on Global Environmental Change and Adaptation from Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver. Her documentary career began as a journalist following the HIV and AIDS pandemic in Ethiopia, South Africa, Liberia, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Thailand over the course of 10 years from it’s height to the rollout of PEPFAR funds and improved access to antiretroviral treatments in remote areas of each country.

Today, her research focus includes economic impacts and community mobilization strategies for South Africa’s “Just Transition” as it decommissions coal-fired power plants to be replaced with renewable energy sources. Her domestic focus applies the same strategies to explore changes to human health and well-being as environmental extraction and engagement evolves. Her residency in Tulsa explores the need for deeper research into legacy oil and gas exploration, extraction and contamination as it affects our urban river, wilderness and community engagement. The central question explores the possibility for adaptation to lead to innovation in clean water, air and land emerging a new relationship between Tulsans and their environment. Melissa’s work begins in contemplative practice, works in data and storytelling and commits to community outcomes.