Early Life and Education

​

Gregory Matthew Hitchcock was born in the Albany, New York, suburbs. After graduating high school in 1985, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a TV and Radio Systems Specialist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. During his service, he experienced a mental health crisis, leading to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia in 1986. This pivotal moment redirected his path toward recovery and creative expression. After an honorable discharge, Hitchcock earned a bachelor’s degree in English from SUNY Albany in 1992.

​

Journalism and Writing Career

​

Hitchcock’s career spans over 25 years, blending journalism, content creation, and advocacy. He worked as a staff reporter for the Leader-Herald in Gloversville, New York, and contributed to publications like Mad in America, focusing on mental health, social justice, and environmental issues. His writing emphasizes community stories, from food insecurity in Fulton County to conservation efforts and historic preservation.

​

Documentary Filmmaking

​

A self-taught filmmaker, Hitchcock founded Command Voice Journalism and later Pegasus Digital Media (2024), a multimedia PR firm. His documentaries include:

​

• Pioneer Days: Fire in the Valley (2021): Explores Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) history and systemic racism.

• Climate Change: The Adirondacks: Produced for a UN project.

• Heroin Addiction in Amsterdam and Woodstock 50th Anniversary: Highlighting social and cultural themes.

• ​

His films combine investigative rigor with a commitment to education, often screened at community events and schools.

​

Mental Health Advocacy

​

Hitchcock openly shares his schizophrenia journey in his memoir, Schizophrenia in the Army (2012), and through public speaking. He challenges stigma by demonstrating how creativity and purpose can thrive despite mental health challenges. His work underscores resilience, using art and storytelling as therapeutic tools.

​

Community Engagement

​

Based in Gloversville, Hitchcock is deeply involved in local initiatives:

​

• Volunteers with Mayfield Central Presbyterian Church, managing their website and producing films.

• Supports food pantries and SUNY FMCC’s Reggie’s Closet, a free thrift store for students.

• Advocates for disability access, as seen in his coverage of ADA-compliant projects like Northville’s kayak launch.

• Philosophy and Legacy

• Hitchcock’s mantra—“Keep on punching until you punch a winner”—reflects his perseverance. He views business as a means to “be useful,” prioritizing value over profit. His multidisciplinary work bridges journalism, film, and activism, aiming to amplify marginalized voices and foster community resilience.

 

Personal Life

​

Hitchcock resides in Gloversville with his wife, Luanne Williams, and remains active in local arts and faith communities. His story is a testament to reinvention, proving that adversity can fuel creativity and purpose.

​

Key Works:

​

• Schizophrenia in the Army (memoir)

• Pioneer Days: Fire in the Valley (documentary)

• Founder of Pegasus Digital Media (2024)

• ​

Themes: Mental health advocacy, environmental conservation, historical preservation, and social justice.