Christian von Tippelskirch

Christian von Tippelskirch is a filmmaker, storyteller, and public health professional whose life bridges creativity, healing, and social impact. Born and raised in Germany and now based in Syracuse, New York, Christian spent over 30 years in international film and media—producing and directing projects that explore disability, identity, and the human condition. His award-winning work, including the documentary Invitation to Dance, reflects his belief in storytelling as a form of social healing and collective awakening.

In recent years, Christian has turned his focus toward the intersections of healing, ecology, and community health. After completing his Master of Public Health with an emphasis on environmental and occupational health, he has been exploring how trauma, resilience, and compassion manifest across individuals and societies. His background in mindfulness practice and MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) informs his perspective that recovery—personal or societal—is never linear, but a continuous process of awareness and renewal.

Through the Acosta Institute Fellowship, Christian seeks to weave his life’s experiences—creative, spiritual, and academic—into new projects centered on healing and transformation. He is especially interested in exploring how storytelling, public health, and mindfulness can intersect to nurture resilience in communities and expand collective compassion. For Christian, this fellowship marks the next step in a lifelong journey of learning, listening, and illuminating what it means to heal together.