Sam’s Bio
Samuel Koltinsky is a passionate filmmaker, conservation advocate, and educator rooted in Kentucky, dedicated to environmental stewardship. At age 20, he visited the Galapagos Islands, sparking his interest in conservation. His film career began in Europe, where he worked in Germany post-Berlin Wall, producing projects that fostered community resilience and democratic values. After years of travel and research, Samuel found
a home at Drake University, where he helped establish the Jay N. “Ding” Darling Institute. This initiative honors the legacy of the visionary conservationist and artist, fulfilling a promise made to Darling’s grandson, “Kip.” Samuel’s award-winning documentary, “America’s Darling,” released in 2012, highlights Darling’s significant impact on the conservation movement. His follow-up film, “Darling is Back,” focuses on the restoration of Lake Darling in Iowa.
In 2023, the Federal Duck Stamp Contest, hosted by the Darling Institute and Drake University, was a great success. Samuel’s commitment to youth empowerment is evident in Outdoor Heroes International Camps, which inspire future conservation advocates and operate under his direction in Europe. He also conducts Olli Zoom Seminars at Drake and collaborates with Bauhaus University and the University of Oslo on Legacy projects exploring the ties between democratic values and environmental responsibility.
His upcoming documentary, “Finding America’s Darling,” celebrates Darling’s 150th birthday and features individuals who embody his collaborative spirit. This film aims to foster community, conservation, education, and social justice, with a premiere set for November 2026 in Des Moines, coinciding with The Wildlife Society conference.