Passion for the Stage
I had always been interested in theatre, initially as a performer. During a rehearsal for a production I was acting in, a friend and cast-mate asked if I wanted to come help out in the costume shop the next afternoon. After that, I was hooked. I’m very much interested in character building through fashion and the collaborative storytelling that is at the heart of design and theatre in general. One of my proudest accomplishments was being asked to remount one of my favorite designs for the 5oth anniversary season of my favorite regional theatre. It was a true honor to be asked and the production was a real labor of love.
Classroom Interaction
My classroom is engaging, supportive and hands on! There are rarely days when my students aren’t using their creative brains or participating in discussion. I like to use a variety of teaching tools including technology to keep the topics fresh. I’ll be teaching more about self-promotion and technology (like website design and digital portfolios) to help prepare our students for entering the professional world. I’m also interested in developing more technology and design courses and possibly a more advanced makeup course.
Best Part of the Job?
The interactions I get to have with my students. Since we work together in so many atmospheres; in the classroom, in the costume shop, in the rehearsal space, I get to watch our students explore and grow in many different ways. It’s the ultimate mentor/mentee collaboration.
Engaging Campus
Students at UMU are encouraged to study the disciplines they are most passionate about and can continue to engage in organizations, sports and events across campus in different departments. The faculty are engaging and challenge each student to fulfill their potential. Students who graduate from our program are multidisciplinary and are prepared to go into the professional world or pursue further training in a master’s program.