The Many Faces of Patrick Watterson

By Parker Norris

Actor. Composer. Dancer. Musician. Pianist. Set Designer. Peer Mentor. Office worker. Student. Individually, these titles would be significant on their own in explaining aspects of a person’s identity. When viewed together, they paint a complete portrait of a talented student whose experiences at Indiana University South Bend have shaped him into who he is today. The student is Patrick Watterson, BFA ’20 Musical Theatre, whose time in college has expanded his ability and talent in the performing arts.

However, such an avenue seemed like a long shot to Watterson several years ago. He was home-schooled for almost all his primary and secondary education. As a result of his home education, he turned to other approaches of trying to develop a social identity. The most significant of these undertakings was his discipline of learning how to play multiple instruments, such as guitar, organ, and piano.

“I remember that my church’s band already had a keyboardist when I became interested, so instead I learned how to play the guitar, as that spot was open, and I just wanted to feel like I had a place where I belonged,” Watterson says. This yearning to belong is one of the core values that has led Watterson through his many artistic endeavors beyond music, including his prolific work in theater both as an actor and a musician.

“Theater came into my life when I really had not much else outside of homeschool and I learned not only about acting or set building, but I also learned how to interact with others. This helped me socially become aware of how to be a better person and react in life, as I did not experience many of the typical emotional moments that occur in school,” he recalled.

Watterson’s abundant work in theater throughout his adolescent years and his passion for music ultimately led to him applying to and being accepted into the Theatre and Dance program in the Raclin School of the Arts at IU South Bend. This not only gave him a place to hone his many artistic and creative skills, but also allowed him to have many opportunities in various clubs and organizations on campus. “Although initially daunting to me, I found that college was a place where I could be in control of my selfeducation. I have had experiences at IU South Bend, specifically in the School of the Arts, which have given me a greater understanding of art. Whether it be through music, acting, or anything else; I want to touch people’s emotions and allow them to truly feel through performing arts,” Patrick says.

This included joining the campus Tap and Kick Line, where Watterson was introduced to Karen Pajor, Dance Instructor at IU South Bend. The Kick Line performs all over campus and at numerous local community events. “Patrick is one of the kindest students I have ever met. He is talented in so many areas and is always willing to share his talents when asked. He is very hardworking and a great role model to other students. I feel very fortunate to have had him as a member of the IU South Bend Tap and Kick Line” Pajor, explained.

While Watterson is known for his many stage talents, he has also worked as a Peer Mentor during the

summer months. Peer Mentors are very important to any University campus, as they help welcome new incoming students at New Student Orientations. Rick Dennie, Director of Student Support, is in charge of these orientations. “I have had the privilege of working with Patrick as an Orientation Leader and seeing him on stage in various performances. The same joy and enthusiasm he exudes on stage also carries over in his interactions with students during Orientation, making them feel welcome and proud to be a part of the incoming class” Dennie recalled.

The School of the Arts knew they had a very special person on their hands and made sure to offer Watterson another job working in the Arts office during the semester. This job entailed being one of the first faces of contact anyone sees when they arrive to the office. Watterson began the job in the office immediately after a summer of peer mentoring, and instantly fit in with the Arts staff and faculty. “Patrick has worked in the Arts office for the past three years. He has been one of our best student workers. He always has a positive attitude and willingness to help with any projects or duties that were assigned to him. He is so patient with other students who are lost or don’t quite understand all the details of being a college student. He is respectful and happy to share information with others. His smile and positive attitude set him apart from many his age. He has left his mark on the Raclin School of the Arts” says Pam Mendenhall, office manager. Arts Student Services Coordinator Tamea Rector, who hired Watterson as a Peer Mentor and has gotten to know him well during his time in the School of the Arts, holds him in high esteem. “One of the perks of my job is that I become acquainted with some truly memorable and remarkable students. Patrick Watterson is one of those. Patrick has worked hard to get himself to this point in his personal development and academic career; and it hasn’t all come easily. I admire his tenacity and determination as well as his abundant talent and work ethic. I look forward to the mark he will make on the world when he leaves IU South Bend. It’s been a joy to have shared in a small part of his journey.”

While Watterson’s time at IU South Bend is close to reaching the final curtain, his impact both as a student and an artist will continue to be felt by those who have known him through this journey. He has grown beyond his own limitations and has realized that the performing arts is not only a field that he enjoys, but it is also something that he can make a living in, thanks to his education.

The world, which once seemed intimidating to Watterson, has grown to become the stage where his next act of life will play out. He may someday be known as a prominent character actor or an accomplished musician. However, for those at IU South Bend, he will be remembered as a truly remarkable student who not only brought down the house after every performance, but also brought up the spirits of everyone around him.