Julie Canepa ’84 is using her Siena Experience to make an impact on the world. She is the co-producer of the Emmy® Winning documentary “Return to Auschwitz”, which tells the story of 95-year-old Holocaust survivor Vladimir Munk and his visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp where his parents and over 30 relatives were killed in World War II. Reflecting on her time at Siena, Julie says, “Back then the word ‘impactful’ was not a part of my vocabulary but it fits perfectly now as I look back on my Siena Experience."

Julie didn’t always have a career in film, but Siena gave her a foundation by making her a lifelong learner. “I feel so fortunate to have been able to explore so many subjects, like Greek and Roman Mythology, Renaissance Art and Introduction to Music. I was exposed to art and beauty, music and theatre, in addition to this amazing foundation of Sociology classes that exposed me to social issues and theories,” she says.

“Everywhere I went at Siena I was surrounded by examples of compassionate people,” Julie says. She credits influences like Fr. Dennis Tamburello, O.F.M., Sr. Rosemary Sgroi, rsm, and especially, Dr. Paul Murray. “He was always calm and thoughtful. I felt like he really listened to me and guided me when I wasn’t quite sure where I needed to be going.” She adds, “Everywhere I looked there were examples of people engaging in the service of others, demonstrating the value within each person, and learning and exploring ways to make a better world.”

Julie and her team screened the film in 2021 at the Strand Theater in Plattsburgh. “After the credits, the house erupted in a five-minute standing ovation for Vladimir. Standing next to him at that moment made all the hard work and challenges associated with the film worthwhile.” Julie adds, “He is 98 and he, and other survivors, can no longer tell their story in person. This film captures his personal story and everyone who watches it, especially middle and high school students, is impacted by it. So, we hope the film lives on as his legacy, as a source of inspiration and education for students and all who view it.”

“Return to Auschwitz” is available to stream on most major streaming platforms.