About
If You Build It follows designer–educators Emily Pilloton and Matt Miller as they lead a year-long “design thinking” course for high-school students in rural Bertie County, North Carolina. Neal Baer served as Producer, helping bring the documentary’s central story—youth empowerment through hands-on design—into a compelling narrative about education, community, and social change. The film highlights how creative problem-solving and civic engagement can transform both students’ lives and the towns they serve.
Awards
MacArthur Foundation Grant (2011)
Sundance Documentary Film Fund Grant (2011)
Hilton–Sundance Light Stay Sustainability Award; Honorable Mention (2013)
Christopher Award; TV & Cable Winner (2016)
Awards
George Foster Peabody Award (1995) – for Excellence in Broadcasting, as Writer
Public Service Award, National Kidney Foundation (1995) – for “The Gift” episode
People’s Choice Awards (1995–2000) – Favorite Dramatic Series / Favorite New Series
Golden Globe Nominations (1996–2000) – Best Dramatic Series
Emmy Award Nominations (1996–2001) – Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Writing
Gracie Award (1996) – for “Calling Dr. Hathaway”
Nancy Susan Reynolds Award (1997) – for HIV storyline
GLAAD Award Nomination (1999) – for “Stuck on You”
Literacy in Media Awards (1999, 2000, 2001) – for “Middle of Nowhere,” “Loose Ends,” and “Rescue Me”
Freddie Award (2000) – Outstanding Medical Show on Patient Care
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