CAM Magazine | Fall 2020, Second Edition

2nd Edition College of Arts & Media Magazine, Fall 2020

2nd Edition College of Arts & Media Magazine, Fall 2020

THE CREATIVE TEAM Weslie Gray, Editor Contributors Madison Barbosa, Photographer Emily Binetti, Writer Ashley Defrancis, Graphic Design Hannah Haney, Writer Veronica Laza, Graphic Design Julia May, Writer Jackie Swan, Writer Ronald E. Shields, Dean College of Arts & Media

W H A T ’S O N T H E CAM SOCIAL Like or follow us on social media to stay upto-date with what’s happening at CAM! For questions or concerns, contact us at marketing@shsu.edu SHSU College of Arts & Media @shsu_cam

COVER

When COVID-19 caused a sudden switch to remote delivery in the spring, university students debated enrolling in handson courses since they lacked access to equipment and feared having nothing to show for their effort during the semester.

Assistant Professor of Photography Emily Peacock decided

@shsucam

that was not going to happen to her students.

SHSU College of Arts & Media

Turn to page 7 for more on QuaranZINE.

Board of Regents The Texas State University System Brian McCall, Chancellor William F. Scott, Chairman, Nederland David Montagne, Vice Chairman, Beaumont Charlie Amato, Regent, San Antonio Duke Austin, Regent, Houston Garry Crain, Regent, The Hills Dr. Veronica Muzquiz Edwards, Regent, San Antonio Donicio Flores, Regent, El Paso Nicki Harle, Regent, Baird Alan L. Tinsley, Regent, Madisonville Amanda Lee, Student Regent, Orange

Are you an SHSU student, faculty or alum who would like to be featured in our next issue? Contact us at marketing@shsu.edu for a chance to be in the 2021 CAM Magazine.

25

Bennie Sneed Chosen for Houston Gallery

32

43

51

34

Remembering Isaiah Ray

Celebrating 10 Years The Dance Gallery Festival

Multicultural Heroes and the Evolution of Sports Film

Artist Encourages Creativity in Quarantine

03

21

29

Letter from the Dean

Department of Art

Department of Dance

39

47

53

School of Music

Department of Theatre & Musical Theatre

CAM Guest Artist Series

33 Department of Mass Communication

55 CAM Donors

LETTER FROM THE DEAN

A LET TER FROM THE DEAN Events during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, including the recent brutal killing of George Floyd, have exposed deep fissures of racism, inequity and prejudice within our society. Despite efforts to establish greater equity in this world, recent events remind us all that our nation, and our institutions, have more to do to build a more perfect union.

CAM has been challenged to listen, learn, and consider how we can best serve those who confront racism and inequities. Through collaborative dialogue and clear actions, the College of Arts & Media (CAM) stands in solidarity with our Black students, and other students and communities, who struggle, individually and collectively, to overcome prejudice and the barriers of racial and economic injustice.

I find it inspiring to consider what “CAM” can mean (beyond the simple designation of our College name). For me, CAM references those attributes that underscore our insitutional values, a shorthand statement of what our College strives to be: Creative, Active and Meaningful to communities–CAM. Through our course work, galleries, media platforms, and on our stages, we study and practice the arts and media to promote self-expression and public debate about things that matter to the individual and society. Central to our academic mission, we work intentionally to educate our students to be disciplinary leaders and professionals, accomplished individuals who stand ready to make the future a better place for themselves and those around them. Indeed, our commitment to equity, diversity & inclusion challenges us to move words into action

and begins with and requires continuing dialogues with the communities we serve, including SHSU faculty, staff and students, and alums like you. It is a journey best guided by transparent and shared values and goals, actions and assessments. From our classrooms and into our communities, CAM is dedicated to bringing the transformative power of the arts and media to all we serve.

The contents in this second edition of our CAM Magazine beautifully tell only a few of these creative/active/meaningful stories. This publication illustrates and PERFORMS what “CAM” can mean (beyond the designation of our College name). I urge you to follow the video and audio links found in these pages to get even more of each story.

Working together,

Dr. Ronald E. Shields, Dean College of Arts & Media 3, Letter from the Dean

COLLEGE OF COLLEGE OF ARTS &ARTS MEDIA & MEDIA www.shsu.edu/cam 936.294.2340 camoffice@shsu.edu

CREATIVITY Imagination in action.

VISION Learning together to advance arts & media for the benefit of our communities.

College of Arts & Media shsu_cam @shsucam

PHOTO BY: TERRY DICKS

QUARAN

ZINE experiences during remote learning

PHOTO BY: CHENYAO ZHOU

PHOTOGRAPHY STUDENTS LEAVE THEIR MARK WITH “QuaranZINE” written by Jackie Swan

When COVID-19 caused a sudden switch to remote delivery in the spring, university students debated enrolling in hands-on courses since they lacked access to equipment and feared having nothing to show for their effort during the semester. Assistant Professor of Photography Emily Peacock decided that was not going to happen to her students.

PHOTO BY: BAILEY SCHNECK

7, QuaranZINE

“QuaranZINE” is a magazine collage of her 13 photo visualization students’ experiences during remote learning.

“They all exceeded my expectations. They rose to the occasion by pushing themselves to make creative, dynamic and poignant photographs with what was around them,” Peacock said. “Trash, food, selfies, yards, boyfriends, kitchens all make appearances in QuaranZINE.” Because this was originally a darkroom course, her class kept with the black and white theme and included their own creative descriptions of their submissions.

Some chose a sentence; others chose poetry or a paragraph.

Bailey Schenck’s poem reads, “The bluebonnets didn’t miss us.

I think they have enjoyed our distant appreciation this year. I have never seen so many. Maybe a little distance is all we need to

thrive sometimes. And that’s okay.”

Her words ring true for all types of natural areas that have blossomed due to a decrease in social gatherings and foot traffic.

Chenyao Zhu chose a collage of how people have changed their diets and face coverings over the course of quarantine. “Because of not enough masks, people have to make their own. In order to reduce the frequency of going out, people will choose foods that are easy to preserve instead of fresh foods,” he wrote. “My photos record my diet and how people make DIY masks.”

The booklet includes images of everyday life, boredom, and acceptance of the simple things in life. Many of the photos capture what most people are feeling while staying at home.

PHOTO BY: ATARIA JOHNSON

PHOTO BY: ADRIANA FLORES

PHOTO BY: YASMINE BANKS

PHOTO BY: ELAINA BADEN

“This semester has been pretty wild ever since the COVID-19 outbreak,” Damaria Anderson said.

“One thing I’ve learned is to be more creative with the materials I don’t normally use.”

To Peacock, this project serves as documented history and proof that these students were not only present, but thriving during one of the worst global pandemics. She chose to innovate out of her own pocket to make up for her students being put at a disadvantage with photography resources. She has also tried to keep the mood light during virtual classes.

“I joked on our first Zoom meeting that they would be required to build their own at-home darkrooms. Their faces were priceless,” Peacock said. “We figured it out and are excited to share it with you.”

TEAChing

IN A

CREATively PAN

DEMIC

JONATHAN READ

EDWARD MORRIN

Clinical Assistant Professor Mass Communication

Associate Professor Art

My audio production and performance classes (over 100 students) spend a lot of their time as DJs on the campus radio station in order to satisfy the public speaking core component of the course. With students going home and buildings locked down, this was no longer an option. I transitioned to podcasting.

[It] has really turned out greater than expected.

For some students, limited access to resources and personal schedule changes could make completing coursework more difficult.

Learning objectives, schedules, and deadlines are important, but under the circumstances, I wanted to assure students that we would be moving forward within a framework built on accommodation and understanding.

9, Teaching Creatively in a Pandemic

MACAEL A CARDER Visiting Assistant Professor Theatre and Musical Theatre

I’ve enjoyed learning new technologies I didn’t have much experience with before. The students used Zoom, iMovie, smart phones and other ways to showcase the new plays.

JOSHUA MANCULICH Assistant Professor Dance

The College of Arts & Media thrives on a combination of human interaction and advanced technology. Amidst a global pandemic when large gatherings and non-essential physical contact are banned, educators share how they conquered the uncharted waters of remote delivery.

I have had my Sam students in the same class with dancers from Norway, Ohio State, Chicago and more. It is lovely to see the Sam community representing in the professional/community web classes.

AARON BROWN Assistant Professor Theatre and Musical Theatre

JOHN L ANE Professor of Percussion School of Music

We are all making it work by being creative and adapting to the situation.​Several students, who do not have keyboard instruments at home, have constructed their own practice boards (a long plank of wood with the outline of mallet keys) to keep up their skills. These efforts, while not ideal, have so far proven quite successful.

WOJCIECH LORENC

Academically, I miss our face to face meetings, but I am learning a multitude of ways technology can enhance what we do in our faceto-face classes, assignments, and productions. When all of this is over, I don’t believe we will take our class time for granted.

Associate Professor Mass Communication

Our students will develop skills that will make them more flexible and adaptable. I believe many will work on some very creative projects in these unusual circumstances. I also believe that future employers will be impressed with the degree of adaptability, and creativity of some of that output.

LEARN MORE Read the full article on how CAM Educators are Teaching Creatively in a Pandemic here.

RESILIENCY OF 10 ArtofComplex 11, CAM Resiliency Student Journalists

STUDENT JOURNALISTS written by Jackie Swan

THE HOUSTONIAN STAFF ADJUST TO WORKING REMOTELY One of the stops on an SHSU tour for

to being a Mass Communication major:

reporting, editing and publishing, but what

prospective students is in front of the

the student-led media outlets within the

happens when the buzz

Dan Rather Communications Building,

department. A college campus can offer

of campus life and activities comes to a halt

where the guide mentions a huge benefit

numerous opportunities in news

during a global pandemic?

The Houstonian staff meeting through Zoom According to the The Houstonian editor in chief, Sharon Raissi, students have had plenty to cover.

“Everyone who talks about how much free time they have now in quarantine must not work in the news business, because it’s nonstop for us, except now we can just do it in our pajamas,” Raissi said.

Thankfully, this generation was founded on technological development, and most editing processes were already set up online. Under normal circumstances, The Houstonian publishes physical newspapers every two weeks to be distributed around campus. On the Mondays in-between, content would be published digitally via email, website blog, and social media.

With the current health crisis, the team has turned exclusively to digital content.

“One thing that I like about working from home is that, without print editions, The Houstonian has been able to focus in on our digital

content,” says assistant editor in chief Mason Storrs. “We have a good online following, so the lessons learned and adjustments made during this period will stick with us and continue to help us even when things go back to normal.”

Most of the staff had the same questions regarding how they were going to proceed when moving to remote delivery.

“I wondered if The Houstonian was going to continue publishing, and if so, how?” said arts & entertainment editor Ariole Jones. “I also wasn’t surprised considering most of the schools within a 50-mile radius had already transitioned to remote delivery, so I was mentally prepared.”

Raissi says her team has been holding weekly group and oneon-one meetings.

“I was worried that contacting sources for interviews would be a problem, but I’ve been incredibly impressed with how writers have been able to gather information and keep their work up to par despite the challenges,” Raissi said.

Creating content has not been the issue for these students; rather the separation from each other has been the challenge.

“My biggest complaint is just not being able to be in the newsroom with my fellow editors and other staff members,” sports editor Tyler Josefsen said. “A huge part of what we do besides reporting the news is helping other students that contribute to our publication develop. Working from home deprives us of opportunities to sit down with those writers, photographers and designers to reflect on their recent work and help them grow as journalists.”

There is a culture created and missed in any workplace.

However, those who specialize in extroverted fields and thrive

on the presence of their colleagues makes isolation that much tougher to endure. Raissi recognizes this experience is history in the making.

“The importance of our job at this time is not lost on me. Years later, people will look at local news to see how the area managed during this pandemic, so this experience has shown me that we report and document it accurately. The whole staff is part of a much bigger picture right now, and they’re handling it with a lot of grace,” Raissi said.

“What this experience has shown me is the resiliency of student journalists.

It’s encouraging to know that people like my staff are the future of this business. I say it a lot, but I’m very proud of everyone on staff for how they’ve all risen to the occasion despite the circumstances.”

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE HOUSTONIAN houstoniannews.com

T HE I N NOCENTS WRIT T EN BY JAC K IE SWAN

13, The Innocents

Professor of Percussion Dr. John Lane has teamed up with his former professor at the University of Cincinnati, Allen Otte, to advocate for The Innocence Project. For nearly 30 years, this national organization has worked to exonerate the wrongfully convicted in the United States. Since its foundation in 1992, the program has freed 375 innocent people based on DNA exoneration who have served a total of 5,284 years in prison.

This is not a process that happens overnight.

The average age of these people at the time of conviction is in their mid-twenties, but the average age of exoneration is in their midforties. The average number of years served is 14.

That is 14 years of one’s life, sitting in a prison cell as the result of a wrongful testimony or failed science.

In 2006, Lane and Otte collaborated with Otte’s colleague, Michael Brunham, on a music piece for a photography exhibit by Taryn Simon at the Cincinnati Contemporary Art Museum. Since then, Lane and Otte have worked with other advocates and developed their own concert-length presentation to tour nationally. They have also presented at the Innocence Network Conference, an annual gathering of nearly a thousand exonerees, lawyers and advocates from around the nation.

“We hope to simply engage an audience

and promote critical thinking about these issues,” said Lane. “Our experience is that a non-partisan, socio-political issue presented as creative art with the highest level of expertise and commitment- rather than didactic instruction- elicits stimulating, thought-provoking comments and questions from audiences, demonstrating palpable engagement with the issue.”

“We both have also been quite surprised with our visits to junior highs and high schools.

We were a bit nervous about how younger kids would react (we have made a version specifically for schools), and we pretty much knew that whatever the reaction was going to be, it would be raw and honest,” said Otte. “It has been, without exception, wonderful and so encouraging.”

Recently, Lane and Otte teamed up with SHSU Associate Professor of Film Wojciech Lorenc to produce a documentary about their journey, which will be released in the near future.

“Allen and John’s performance is as much about the sound as it is about how the sound is created. The audience is treated to worldclass percussionists playing wonderful music by dragging books on the table’s surface, hitting rocks with hammers, or playing a homemade canjo (banjo made with a can) and a washboard. This is justified by the culture of music making and performing that is present in American prisons. The film is about pursuing social justice by using your talents, abilities, and resources that are available to you in your current situation,” said Lorenc.

“I hope that the viewer will walk away with deeper understanding of the important issue of wrongful convictions, but also in awe of John and Allen’s efforts and artistry. I hope that the viewers who have artistic inclinations will follow in John and Allen’s footsteps and will consider using their talents to cause social change.”

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has put a pin in their school visits and other performances, Lane and Otte have no intentions in halting their advocacy anytime soon.

They believe that not every person has to be involved with a socio-political issue, but rather there is power in “lifting your voice for something other than yourself,” words spoken by composer Herbert Brün and used frequently in their presentations.

“I actually think the conversations Americans are having right now about race, equality, and policing are going to make our project even more timely when we are able to resume touring and performing,” said Lane. “In some ways, audiences may even be more primed to engage with these issues.”

Stay up to date with this project and the documentary release at the-innocents.com.

GET INVOLVED

BEARKAT ALUMNI

15, Alumni, James Surls

JAMES SURLS

A LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT later. He has been named a Texas Artist of the Year and received the Living Legend Award from the Dallas Contemporary Art Center. His wood, steel and bronze sculptures, drawings and prints are in major art museums as well as public and Sam Houston State University is the proud home private collections throughout the nation, including of three James Surls masterpieces. Two are on display throughout the College of Arts & Media on Arizona State University, Houston Museum of Fine Arts, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of New the Huntsville campus: “Around the Flower Wall” This year, James Surls was recognized by the in the Gaertner Performing Arts Center, “Through York City, Smithsonian American Art Museum in International Sculpture Center, publisher of It All” in the Art Complex. In addition, “Pitcher with Washington, D.C., and others. He has exhibited and is collected internationally in Australia, Sculpture Magazine, and has been awarded the Flowers” is on display outside of the College of France, Mexico, The Netherlands, Norway, and 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award. The Lifetime Osteopathic Medicine in Conroe.

Peru, among other countries. His artwork has Achievement Award was established in 1991 to recognize individual sculptors who have made Surls graduated from Sam Houston State Teachers been in over 350 solo, group, museum, and gallery exhibits across the world, and he has been exemplary contributions to the field of sculpture.

College with a bachelor’s degree in 1966 and featured in more than 425 publications.

Candidates for the award are masters of sculptural from Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan processes and techniques who have devoted their with a Master of Fine Arts degree two years Internationally recognized artist and educator James Surls is one of the most widely celebrated sculptors in the country. A native Texan who grew up in the Piney Woods of East Texas, James is best known for his monumental sculptures, influenced by human and other natural forms, and reflective of his connection with the outdoors.

careers to the development of a laudable body of sculptural work as well as to the advancement of the sculpture field as a whole.

BEARKAT ALUMNI

LEAVE THEIR MARK KELLY DEHAY (’74) & ROD DANIELSON written by Jackie Swan

The College of Arts and Media celebrated a landmark in Fall 2019 as the new Art Complex building was finally opened to the public.

In addition to new classrooms, studios and galleries, the Sam Houston State University landscape now includes a unique work of art, made possible from a generous gift by Life Endowed members of the Alumni Association, Kelly DeHay (’74) and Rod Danielson.

DeHay and Danielson are longtime advocates for higher education and humanitarian work throughout their community. For nearly a decade, they have been regular attendees of Bearkat football games and have shown support for Bearkats in Business and the Bearkat Championship Fund in addition to sponsoring the Alumni tent at pre-game tailgates. The devotion these two have for the Bearkat community pales in comparison to their passion for supporting an SHSU education.

“We were each the first ones in our families to have the opportunity to get to go to college, so we decided to give a yearly scholarship to a first-generation student in the College of Business Administration,” DeHay said. “We believe education is a great equalizer in our country as it enables one to move up socially.

We also believe an education enables an individual to become something that maybe one never dreamed they could become.”

Few areas of campus culture go untouched by the kindness of DeHay and Danielson, and art is no exception.

Crafted by late Mexican artist Yvonne Domenge, an entwined, vibrant blue “Cicek” (Turkish word for ‘flower’) sits upon the lawn

17, Alumni Donations

for students and other passersby to enjoy on their walk along Bowers Blvd. Domenge has been widely recognized for her workspecifically sculptures- which can be seen at various museums, universities and even government facilities around the world.

“Several years ago, we had admired a Yvonne Domenge sculpture at an installation in Hermann Park in Houston. The more we thought about a sculpture, the more we knew it had to be created by Yvonne,” DeHay said.

“We were so thrilled when the art committee loved our choice as much as we did. The gorgeous new Art Complex seemed like the perfect place for a modern contemporary sculpture by an artist whose work appears all over the globe.”

It is their hope that this sculpture will become a part of SHSU culture, whether it means showing up in a graduation photo or providing a peaceful place for students to hang out on the lawn. Regardless of community response, this is certainly one way to leave a mark on campus.

“Art is beauty. It is also community. As one famous Bearkat (Dan Rather) said, ‘Art is a vital point at what unites us.’ May ‘Cicek’ be another thing that unites the Bearkat community,” DeHay said.

Sam Houston State owes much of its success to donors like Kelly DeHay and Rod Danielson who are the epitome of the university motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service.” The College of Arts and Media is honored to receive their collaboration on this generous donation.

JILL ADAMS (‘86) written by Jackie Swan

The simple nature of eyesight is something many people take for granted. For SHSU alumna Jill Adams, the gift of sight is a miracle that she decided to share with her alma mater.

Standing tall in front of the new Art Complex is a brilliant stained-glass sculpture. With Adams’ generous contribution, the university was able to provide this sculpture with the beautiful showcase patio that it deserves.

Born Teresa Jill Adams and weighing just over two pounds, she spent most of her infancy in the NICU. Her nurses referred to her as “Jill,” claiming “Teresa” was too long of a name for a 2.6-ounce baby. Growing up a tomboy, her new name stuck. Due to complications with her premature birth, Adams suffered from severe eye damage.

Her doctors informed her parents that it would be a miracle if Jill survived, let alone not have blindness or brain damage. Not only did Jill survive, but she thanks God for gifting her all three miracles: life, vision, and a healthy brain.

She received her first pair of glasses when she was just 16 months old and began reaching for everything in sight.

Jill showed immense artistic talent at a young age. During her elementary years, she took art lessons and was advanced by her teachers several months quicker than other students.

She also had a passion for animals and hoped to become a veterinarian. However, she struggled with math and science. As she grew up, Jill realized she would not be able to perform veterinary surgeries considering the issues she maintained with her eyesight. She decided to pursue her passion for art instead and obtain a teaching degree so she could share her gift.

Adams received her BFA at Stephen F. Austin University in 1979 and went on to achieve her Master in Elementary Education from Sam Houston State University in 1986. She taught art and reading for over three decades throughout the northern Houston area before retiring in 2011.

Since retirement, Adams enjoys spending time with her son and still likes to live on the wild side. She grew up loving water sports and riding motorcycles, despite her doctors warning her to be cautious. “I refuse to live my life wondering ‘What if ?’ because life is too short,” she said. “Growing up, I had to learn to keep up or get left behind, so I learned to keep up and outrun.”

Now, the SHSU Art Complex has the Teresa Jill Adams Plaza to share her colorful attitude.

“I wanted to share a part of myself with other artists,” she said. An engraved plaque on the plaza will read “Miracle of Life, Vision, Color, and Light. Fine Arts For All To See.” The College of Arts and Media extends gratitude to Jill Adams for her outstanding contribution.

BEARKAT ALUMNI

LEAVE THEIR MARK BILL BARTLET T (‘55) & MARY LEE BARTLET T (‘55) written by Jackie Swan

As artistic degrees grow in popularity, SHSU alumnus William A. ‘Bill’ Bartlett hopes to continue this trend by providing funds for art and vocal music scholarships.

Although he was not a music major, Bartlett found a passion for singing at an early age, which he pursued during his time at SHSU and beyond. He participated in the Singing Men’s Chorus for one year and the A Capella Choir for three years under the direction of Charles Lindsay, who taught him privately for his last two years as a student. Additionally, Bartlett performed in the Huntsville community with the First Baptist Church choir.

Bartlett graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 1955 and pursued a career in accounting while continuing to sing. He was a member of the Army Engineer Chorus during his two years of military service.

In 1959, he auditioned and was accepted into the Houston Grand Opera, where, as a member of the American Guild of Musical Artists, he performed in more than 100 productions over the span of 29 years.

Now, Bartlett hopes to keep this creative spirit alive within higher education.

“I hope to make it easier for people to pursue art and music,” Bartlett said. “A lot of people may hesitate to go into that area of study unless you’re going into teaching, but this scholarship might encourage more people to pursue a performing arts area.”

Two generous endowment funds will be distributed via scholarships, one in his name for the School of Music and one in his sister’s

19, Alumni Donations

name, Mary Lee Bartlett, for the Department of Art. Mary graduated from Sam Houston State Teachers College in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and minor in Art. She taught for 30 years in the Houston area before retiring in 1984. She is passionate about woodworking, participating in various sculpting classes and having her work displayed across the nation. The Mary Lee Bartlett Wood Shop classroom in the new SHSU Art Complex is named in her honor.

Since his retirement from accounting in 1987, Bill Bartlett has been an active member of the Houston community and is well known for his large patio garden, recognized as the ‘orchid gallery’ by the American Orchid Society. Recently, his efforts were included in the Smithsonian Institution’s Archives of American Gardens. As treasurer of The Friends of Archaeology, he has traveled all over the world observing orchids and visiting dig sites.

He also served as treasurer for Peckerwood Garden Conservation and the Houston Orchid Society.

“I feel it’s important for people to give back to their community as much as they can,” Bartlett said. “I have very fond memories of my years at Sam Houston and I hope to provide the opportunity for others to have a great experience as well.”

The William A. Bartlett Sculpture Garden in front of the SHSU Art Complex is named in his honor. On behalf of future recipients of these scholarships, the College of Arts and Media extends gratitude to Bill and Mary Bartlett for these outstanding contributions.

THE MEASURE OF A LIFE IS ITS SERVICE S

H

S

U

M

O

T

T

O

21, Department of Art

DEPARTMENT OF ART Located in a modern fourlevel, technology-enhanced complex, the Department of Art is home to several nationally recognized degrees. Students have access to contemporary digital labs and creative studios that refine critical skills for a competitive job market. The Department of Art is proud to facilitate exhibitions and activities that promote original thinking and support the local community.

MFA ART & SOCIAL PRACTICE DEGREE

FAQ

answered by Rebecca Finley 22 Department of Dance

WHAT IS ART & SOCIAL PRACTICE, AND WHY DOES IT MAT TER? Art and Social Practice is a movement in which the audience participates in the creation of artwork within their community. These projects create new dialogs about culture and bring attention to important issues in a way that can lead to social change.

WHAT ARE MY CAREER OPTIONS WITH THIS MFA? There are many opportunities to work with businesses, government agencies, higher education, and community-based organizations like museums, galleries, and art centers to facilitate public engagement. Artists who are passionate about making a difference within communities and working outside of traditional art parameters would be great candidates.

HOW DO I APPLY? Applicants to the MFA degree must submit a graduate application to SHSU first.

Once accepted, students may submit their digital portfolio, resume or curriculum vitae, statement of intent, and three references or letters of recommendation to the Department of Art.

AN IM AT IO N

FESTIVAL CELEBRATES NEXT GENERATION OF CREATORS written by Jackie Swan

THE ANIMATION FESTIVAL IS A SHOWCASE OF THE VALUABLE LEARNING PROCESS UNDERGONE BY STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED SHSU ANIMATION DEGREE. Professors have played a key role in student development of skills and selfconfidence, including Edward Morin and Melissa Glasscock.

“I was excited to learn from Ms. Glasscock who I heard is an expert.

Through her teaching I learned to gain a more accurate eye for flaws and mistakes in my animations,” said student Paul Nieto Jr. “She is very detail oriented, which is good. It improves my work dramatically with every small tweak.”

Inspiration can be found just about anywhere, even from artists with a different concentration. Anjel Davis advises peers not to overthink an idea.

“The video I used for rotoscoping was a dance video from a choreography company. I thought, with the strong movements of my reference, I could make an animation that took what was already cool movement and make it even cooler. As for my other projects, many were the first ideas that came to mind.

Usually, the first idea is the best idea so animators don’t over-edit.”

Each project can take hours upon hours to complete depending on how much time is spent developing an idea, finding references, and of course editing the actual result. Nieto Jr. enjoys being an animation major, although it requires a lot of schedule balancing. “I have a full-time job, and it sometimes interferes with my schoolwork. I really enjoyed this semester even though it was my busiest yet. I still had a lot of fun and learned so much.”

VIEW THE FULL 2020 SHSU ANIMATION FESTIVAL HERE

GRADUATING SENIOR’S WORK CHOSEN FOR HOUSTON GALLERY written by Jackie Swan

During his senior year, recent

from watching his aunt and uncle draw

was accepted into a Contemporary

create and stay motivated through the

graduate Bennie Jewel Sneed III

Practice exhibition held by The

frequently. Sneed has continued to

pandemic since graduating in Spring

Houston Center for Photography from

2020.

exhibition featured 14 artists from six

His photo titled “Tears of The Light ”

and Sneed was the single candidate

Conceptual Portraiture with his

November 2019 to January 2020. The universities across the state of Texas, chosen from SHSU.

Growing up in Anderson, he was

inspired to be an artist at an early age

25, Bennie Sneed Featured in Houston Gallery

was created for a project surrounding mother modeling as the subject. “It

was her idea to have the background of the picture completely blacked

out, and then my idea to make the

lightbulb and tears look as if they were

lighting up because of her,” said Sneed.

“ THIS PICTURE STARTED A TREND THAT I CONTINUED TO USE IN MY PHOTOGRAPHS, THAT TREND BEING, HAVING THE PICTURES BE VERY DARK WITH A SINGLE LIGHT SOURCE AND A CONCEPT THAT CAN BE INTERPRETED IN A HANDFUL OF WAYS.”

The image on this page is the design created by SHSU students to promote the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) across campus and beyond. This design project received several awards, including the University & Colleges Design Association (2020 Design Awards), a Graphis Silver Award, and recognition by the 2020 Houston American Advertising Awards.

Main contributors include Quincy Webster, Cesar Rivera, Jacob Magby, Kathrine Aclin, Keaton Roy, and Veronica Laza.

G RAPH IC DES IG N R E C O G N I Z E D

A C R O S S

T H E

N A T I O N

written by Jackie Swan

Veronica Laza, rebrand of the menu for Rudyard’s bar and grill in Houston

Veronica Laza, imagery for Skateboards and Skateboarding: The Complete Beginner’s Guide by LaVada Weir

27, Student Success

This year’s edition of CAM Magazine was designed by SHSU Department of Art senior Veronica Laza and recent graduate Ashley Defrancis, who both had work accepted into the 2020 National Student Show held by the Dallas Society of Visual Communications (DSVC).

Defrancis’ contribution was a menu for Wakefield Crowbar, a

local bar and eatery in Houston.

She also created a Square Dance Manual that received Publication Honorable Mention at the Glitch Design Competition 2020, hosted

by Mississippi State University.

Laza had two works featured at the DSVC, including her redesign of the menu for Rudyard’s bar and grill in Houston and imagery for Skateboards and Skateboarding:

The Complete Beginner’s Guide by LaVada Weir.

“Seeing our students have success in these national events is always satisfying and demonstrates the caliber of work produced by SHSU students,” said Associate Professor Tony Watkins, who received recognition at the GDUSA 2020 American Web Design Awards for his website and his work for

Ashley Defrancis, rebrand of Wakefield Crowbar, a local bar and eatery in Houston

Ashley Defrancis, redesign of the Square Dance Manual by Jack Mann

Humphrey ’s Grill in Huntsville.

“The graphic design profession is very competitive, and the work accepted into these competitions is unbelievably good. Our program has made great strides over the past several years, and this recognition validates all the hard work our students, and faculty, have invested.”

29, Department of Dance

DEPARTMENT OF DANCE

MFA STUDENT GRADUATES WITH EIGHT AWARDS written by Jackie Swan Scholarly Achievement. Originally from Singapore, she danced professionally there and throughout the United States for multiple different companies and obtained her BFA in Dance from The Boston Conservatory.

The Department of Dance has consistently been recognized for outstanding choreography and performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Located in the Gaertner Performing Arts Center, this department offers an intensive curriculum featuring a diverse guest artist series and access to a state -of-the -art dance theater, four studios, a dance technology lab, and a fully equipped Pilates studio.

While completing her MFA, Evelyn Toh received the Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award for the 2019-2020 academic year and several others in Professional Standard, Dance Leadership, Performance, Choreography, and

“I entered the SHSU Dance MFA hoping to gain skills that would allow me to grow in my career path, and these awards add to my confidence that I am working in the right direction,” said Toh, now an SHSU faculty member. “Coming from Singapore, a career in the Arts is uncommon, so I am grateful my parents have always been able to see the value of my career path and were even the ones who planted the seeds to obtaining an MFA in Dance.”

VIEW THE FULL STORY HERE

GRADUATING SENIOR LEAVES NO ABILITY BEHIND written by Jackie Swan Caroline Senter dedicated her time as a BFA student to developing an innovative dance program for the SHSU chapter of Project Sunshine, which provides service to “buddies,” or people with special needs of all ages and their families. As a member of dance honor society Chi Tau Epsilon, Senter collaborated with leadership teams of both organizations to bring her idea to life and received the CAM Excellence in Service Award at the 2020 Sammys.

“This program felt like a missing piece to the department. I knew it

would benefit the buddies and be a great supplement to our dance education. Fortunately, I had a ton of support from faculty,” she said.

“There was also a lot of dedication from my fellow Chi Tau Epsilon officers and members, who showed up each Saturday morning to participate in and even teach some of the classes. We all had so much fun dancing with the buddies.”

Senter is now a teacher, choreographer, and director for Pointe of Grace in Katy, TX and teacher for Dance of Asian America in Houston.

S H S U AS S I S TA N T P R O F E SS O R O F DA N C E D O N A L D S H O R T E R I N T E RV I E W E D O N I N C LU S I V I T Y written by Zachary Whittenburg, Dance Magazine “Many techniques, especially older ones like ballet and bharatanatyam, segregate movement into gender-based categories. It’s of little surprise, then, how many schools struggle to welcome dancers who are nonbinary, transgender, genderfluid, gender-nonconforming or still discovering their gender identities. It gets even more complicated when you factor in how early many start training.

While creative people are often at the forefront of advancing diversity, equity and inclusion, dance’s gendered history has kept training institutions from leading the way. Contemporary techniques like Gaga and contact improvisation come more gender-inclusive “off the shelf,” but even classical traditions can be respectfully revamped.

Donald C. Shorter Jr. uses mixed pronouns in his/her role as an assistant professor of dance at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and mixes up the “usual suspects” to keep his/ her curriculum inclu­s ive. “Look,

DA N C E I N T H E D I G I TA L AG E

I uphold Marius Petipa. I uphold George Balanchine. I live for a good Serenade. But I make sure we also look at Michael Clark and Karole Armitage, that we talk about Katy Pyle, Sean Dorsey, Miguel Gutierrez, Jack Ferver.

If you’re teaching ballet history, Trockadero is just as useful as any other example,” says Shorter.

Shorter stands at the front of a classroom, with one leg in a turned-in passe, and arms behind his/her back. Two students copy him/her.

Shorter has also found that bringing his/her whole self to the classroom helps people feel safe. “I ask what their preferred gender pronouns are to begin with,” Shorter says. “But I also say, ‘If that’s not something you’re comfortable sharing in front of the group, you can speak to me after class, or send me an email.’ I’m not asking them to out themselves, and I’ll say, ‘If at any time your pronouns change, you can tell me.’“ READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Associate Professor Dionne Noble and Professor Andrew Noble received a grant for their collaborative research, Prometheus Magnified: Dance and A.I. Research in the Digital Age. The project explores how the human body is represented and organized in artificial intelligence and machine learning systems.

CELEBRATING

10 Y E A R S T H E DA N C E GA L L E RY F E S T I VA L

The 10th anniversary of the Dance Gallery Festival was celebrated at the Gaertner Performing Arts Center in Fall 2019.

Established in New York in 2007, the festival came to SHSU in 2010. Co-artistic directors Astrid von Ussar and Andy Noble have brought emerging and established dance artists from all over the world to the Piney Woods.

Ten choreographers presented innovative work on the program including four NYC artists – Annalee Taylor, Rosie DeAngelo (The Nash Conspiracy), Rohan Bhargava (Rovaco Dance Company) and Nicole Caruana (UANA DANS) – as well as artists from around the nation including Brandon Whited/Santa Barbara Dance Theater from California, Colette Kerwick from New Mexico, Evelyn Toh from Texas (originally from Singapore), Jessica Miller Tomlinson from Illinois, Mark Caserta from Texas, and Trabien Pollard from Virginia.

“THE FESTIVAL IS A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO BRING TOGETHER ARTISTS FROM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY AND SHOWCASE THEIR IDEAS IN ONE PROGRAM. THIS ONEOF-A-KIND EVENT IS TRULY A GEM THAT TAKES PLACE RIGHT HERE IN HUNTSVILLE.” – DIONNE NOBLE, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF DANCE

Celebrating 10 Years The Dance Gallery Festival, 32

33 Department of Mass Communication

DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMM With access to advanced technology and handson curriculum, the Mass Communication department offers an exciting pathway into the fast paced, everchanging world of mass media. Students run the show just as they would in the field for an award-winning campus newspaper, radio station, community television station, and public relations firm–all of which are housed in the Dan Rather Communications Building.

Photo included in Sport, Film and National Culture.

Courtesy Barack Obama Presidential Library. (Photo by Pete Souza)

MULTICULTURAL HEROES AND THE EVOLUTION OF SPORTS FILM written by Jackie Swan After several years of studying sports movies, Assistant Professor Grant Wiedenfeld published his essay “Multicultural American Heroes: Reading the Recent Biopics of Jackie Robinson and Jesse Owens Through the Lens of American Civil Religion” in the book Sport, Film and National Culture. It explores how the perception of multicultural athletes in film has changed over time. “Movies commemorating

heroic black athletes like Jesse Owens and Jackie Robinson are important because they project an image of America that has diverse leaders and where minorities do not face shame over cultural difference,” said Wiedenfeld. “I hope that readers take away a better sense of what multiculturalism means for the United States in the 21st century. We should think critically and feel deeply about what it means to be American.”

Faculty Publication, 34

PRIORITY ONE

THE POWER OF ZOOM

written by Kathryn Belanger

THE CLASSROOM MIGHT HAVE CHANGED, BUT THE LEARNING DID NOT.

Priority One is a student-led public relations firm on the campus of Sam Houston State University, a class that provides hands-on experience for students by working directly with clients and creating real material.

campaign presentations just as effectively as traditional in-person presentations.

People have plenty of moments in life to shine and display their work, but not many are able to adjust an entire public relations firm to run successfully through Zoom.

Unlike normal semesters, halfway through Spring 2020, Priority One had to figure out how to work from home as a team. With the capabilities of Zoom, the team was able to meet with clients and provide virtual

LEARN MORE ABOUT PRIORITY ONE @SHSUPriorityOne

STUDENT LEADERSHIP IN PUBLIC RELATIONS GOES NATIONAL written by Jackie Swan Kathryn Belanger was elected as Vice President of Digital Communications for the 2020-2021 Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) National Committee.

She has been a member of the SHSU chapter for over two years, during which she was the Southwest District Ambassador and a member of the National Social

Media Committee. “A college education is so valuable, but we also pay for the experience. Sometimes, students lack the motivation to get involved with campus organizations,” she said. “I truly believe one learns the most in uncomfortable situations. I am more confident to graduate and enter the workplace because of this experience. Passion and drive will take you places, so utilize it.”

PRSSA includes nearly 10,000 student members and advisers with chapters at 375 college campuses throughout the United States, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, and Puerto Rico.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

Student Success, 36

INTOLERANCE BY BENJAMIN JEFFERSON Gold Remi Award Winning Student Short Film

An aggressively woke Black Lives Matter Liberal and a Confederate flag-flying Trump supporter must be roommates in college.

LONE STAR STORIES BY COBY LOBAUGH Student Documentary Series

Native Texans known for successful careers, special talents, and unique experiences share their stories. Episode 1 features the US Air Force Thunderbirds and US Navy Blue Angels.

37, Student Media Projects

FEARLESS BY WOJCIECH LORENC SHSU Faculty Documentary Film This intimate portrait of a boxing gym in Conroe reveals challenges faced by people of color in the US. Although optimistic, trying to fulfill the American Dream can result in unrealistic expectations and victim blaming. Polish-born filmmaker and SHSU faculty member, Wojciech Lorenc, illustrates what really happens when minorities try to “pull themselves up by their bootstraps” in modern America.

Fearless will be released in 2021.

UMBANDA: OFFERINGS OF FAITH

BY ELISA HERRMANN

SHSU Faculty Documentary Film

Although the name of the religion Umbanda is well-known in Brazil, what it means to practice remains a mystery to many. Raised in an essentially Catholic environment, Brazilian-born filmmaker and SHSU faculty member, Elisa Herrmann, never had close contact with Umbanda. This film aims to ease the curiosity and even fear that many people associate with the rituals of this religion. Umbanda: Offerings of Faith is available on Amazon Prime.

39, School of Music 36 School of Music

SCHOOL OF MUSIC Composed of internationally recognized performers, scholars, and educators, the School of Music is a devoted community, home to the prestigious Bill Watrous Jazz Festival and the Bearkat Marching Band. The School of Music offers preparation for music therapy board certification and holds exceptionally high standards for students of vocal, instrumental, ensemble and chamber performance.

INFANTS AND THE INSTRUMENT OF VOICE Assistant Professor Amy Smith was awarded a FAST grant to fund the study of how neonatal intensive care nurses use their voice in the NICU. It is an extension of her dissertation focused on how singing to preterm infants can improve long term language outcomes. The student research assistants are Hannah Mascorro, Emily Melinder, and Nia Williams.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS AND MUSIC Professor Dr. Javier Pinell was invited as a guest artist to present his webinar, “Music in the Time of the Pandemic,” to the National Symphony Orchestra of Bolivia. He shared his approaches to both artistry and technique with the violin sections of Bolivia’s premier professional group.

Jazz Ensemble and New Direction Vocal Ensemble made the most of remote learning with their rendition of “I Can’t Believe You’re In Love With Me”

JAZZ ENSEMBLE

R E L E A S E S F I R S T D OW N LOA DA B L E C D , S H O R E L I N E D R I V E w r i t t en b y Ja c ki e Sw a n

The SHSU Jazz Ensemble released their first ever downloadable CD, Shoreline Drive. It serves as a tribute to late trombone legend Bill Watrous, an inspiration to musicians all over the world. Director of the Jazz Ensemble Dr. Aric Schneller is extremely proud of the 19 student musicians and their ability to channel such creativity and professionalism.

The cover art is a picture from Long Beach, Calif., not far from where Watrous spent most of his later years. He performed “This is Love” and “Shoreline Drive” for the 2018 SHSU Bill Watrous Jazz Festival, which inspired the student recording just one month before his passing.

“Bill was my hero who became my friend.

And his memory and influence are so profound and complete in my heart as to be indistinguishable from whatever else I am as a musician,” Schneller wrote. “From 2011 until his passing in 2018, I had the pleasure of working closely with Bill at the SHSU Bill Watrous Jazz Festival. We became fast friends, and I observed his love of rehearsing with students and the joy he gifted to all who heard him play.”

Shoreline Drive features the absolute best talent that Jazz Ensemble has to offer and includes a vivid description of the musical stylings of each track. This is the first time the School of Music has released a CD with a

digital code, which allows download and on-the-go access for modern devices.

It received praise from noteworthy musicians, including John Fedchock (twotime Grammy-nominated arranger and NYC trombonist) and Richard DeRosa (Grammynominated composer and professor at University of North Texas). Additionally, Dr. Schneller has received an invitation to collaborate with internationally acclaimed jazz teacher and author, J. Richard Dunscomb.

For sale information, contact Dr. Aric Schneller (als043@shsu.edu).

Jazz Ensemble, Shoreline Drive production Jazz Ensemble, Shoreline Drive, 42

FULFILLING THE LEGACY OF

I S A IA H RAY written by Julia May

43, Remembering Isaiah Ray

IN TRIBUTE Summers were serious business growing up in the Ray household. There were no lazy days with nothing to do nor time for boredom in the Cypress community.

Isaiah Ray was one of eight children brought up by a single mom. All the boys’ names began with “I” and the girls’ names began with “M.” Their mom, Julie, kept the children busy in the summer months by involving them in soccer, scouts, swim team, and any other productive and stimulating activity she could find.

“As a working parent, Mom needed help taking care of all of us when school wasn’t in session,” Isaiah’s younger brother Irving said. “She was concerned that we would get into trouble if we were alone at home with nothing to do, so she made sure we had something to occupy our time until she got off work every day.”

Among those activities was band camp.

“Band camp was a free activity, and we had access to a trombone because Mom’s brother had played one in school,” Irving said. When Isaiah and another brother reached middle school, they joined the Truitt Middle School Band as beginning trombonists. Right away, Isaiah stood out as a leader.

“He was definitely more mature than most of the others in the class,” said John Morrison, coordinator of secondary music for the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. “His enthusiasm for band was infectious and he was highly respected by his peers.

“As a high school band director (at the time) who taught Isaiah’s class every day at the middle school, I figured that his early success on the trombone would transfer well to the euphonium. I knew that he could eventually be a leader for us at the high school where we were lacking such talent,” Morrison said. Morrison, who himself is a euphonium musician, was not disappointed.

Isaiah continued to grow and develop as a leader, and Morrison knew his passion, dedication, and work ethic would lead to

even more success at the next level.

“When Isaiah graduated high school, I gave him my old Alteri brand euphonium gig bag that I myself used in college,” he said. “I knew that it would be helpful for him to have that kind of access so that he could be quick and mobile with his instrument during those university years.”

From his senior year in high school onward, Isaiah taught in band leadership workshops. Irving believes that the experience influenced Isaiah’s interest in becoming a public school teacher.

“Students who had been selected to be leaders in their school bands attended these workshops. They learned how to lead by example and how to motivate other members of their bands,” Irving said.

“The workshop teachers used marching drills and strategies, as well as one -on-on instruction, to teach the students how to be model players on their own instruments, how to speak in front of a group, and other aspects of being a leader. Isaiah found the work challenging and humbling, yet tremendously rewarding.” He was also impacted by his own band directors, whom Irving described as “phenomenal.”

“From middle school through college, we could not have asked for better teachers who made a difference in our professional lives. It’s easy to see why Isaiah wanted to follow in their footsteps.”

At SHSU, Isaiah became a student of Dr. Matthew McInturf, the director of bands and Director of the Center of Music Education. He thrived in the program and became a member of the Wind Ensemble where he performed regularly, including performances at both the Texas Music Educators Association and the College Band Directors National Association conventions. He was also a leader in the Bearkat Marching Band and played in the SHSU Symphony Orchestra.

“Isaiah was a delightful person with a vibrant sense of humor and a generous

spirt,” McInturf said. “He made friends easily because he genuinely cared for people. He was a good leader who worked hard to excel in his endeavors and led by example.”

While in college, Isaiah continued to work with public school students. In addition to his work in band leadership camps, he taught private lessons for young students and served as a counselor for the SHSU Band Camps. Upon his graduation in 2006 with a Bachelor of Music degree with Teacher Certification, he was hired as an assistant band director at Canyon Ridge Middle School in the Leander ISD, one of the most outstanding programs in the country. The summer band program started rehearsals in late July, and Isaiah had been on the job and met many of his students and colleagues before the school year began. Tragically, just before fall classes began, Isaiah lost his life in an automobile accident while returning to Leander after visiting his family in Houston.

Three years later, Irving, who had followed Isaiah to SHSU as a music education major, faced the loss of his brother in one of the most difficult performances of his life.

“I had performed at TMEA before when I was in high school after being selected for All-State,” he said. “Isaiah was an undergrad at the time and had come to TMEA with SHSU, and it meant so much to me to be able to perform on this stage in front of my big brother, who was already an inspiration to me. “When I went back in 2009 with the SHSU Wind Ensemble, we played a piece in which I had a featured solo. It broke my heart that I could not play that solo in front of my brother,” Irving said.

“Isaiah and I had performed together in the Wind Ensemble when he was a senior and I was a freshman. And now I was being led by the same conductor in the band that Isaiah and I had performed together, and it was all I could do to look through my tears with a very blurry vision and perform the way I knew he would have wanted me to.”

Although that particular experience was a low point for Irving, a series of events came together 10 years later, giving Irving a chance to honor and pay tribute to his brother at another TMEA performance in an especially meaningful way.

Following Isaiah’s death, the SHSU School of Music established a scholarship fund in his memory. Many people contributed including members of the School of Music faculty, with major funding coming from Isaiah’s family. The amount grew, and last year, the School of Music collected enough money to fully fund the Isaiah Ray Memorial Music Education Endowed Scholarship. Beginning this year, the scholarship provides $1,000 annually for deserving students majoring in music education. To celebrate the new scholarship and dedicate a box of seats in the Performance Hall in Isaiah’s memory, the School of Music presented a concert on Feb. 4, 2020. In addition, the School commissioned composer Steve Danyew to write a piece in Isaiah’s memory for the SHSU Wind Ensemble to perform at this year’s TMEA convention. The work features a euphonium soloist, and Irving was asked to play the solo.

By now, Irving not only was an SHSU

School of Music alumnus, he had earned his master’s and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees at the prestigious University of North Texas College of Music. He had also been selected for one of the extremely rare euphonium positions in the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own.” He won the position playing Isaiah’s instrument and continues to play on it when he performs.

Dr. Brian Gibbs, current director of the Bearkat March Band, was one of Isaiah’s high school band directors and had known Isaiah and the Ray family since Isaiah was in middle school. He was invited to conduct the performance. While putting the composition together, Danyew worked with Irving to make sure the piece personified Isaiah’s personality. “Steve is a skilled, creative composer with a good heart and mind. We talked on the phone, and he wrote the piece based on our conversation about what Isaiah meant to me and what others said about him,” Irving said. In Lamentation for Euphonium and Wind Ensemble, a trumpet soloist offstage represents the voice of Isaiah with the euphonium soloist, Irving, having a conversation with him. Throughout the music, Irving recalls memories of Isaiah while experiencing a range of emotions— joy, sadness, confusion, and finally acceptance.

“Steve absolutely nailed it,” Irving said.

“He could have written a piece that was sad and gloomy, but instead he went from the enthusiasm in Isaiah’s youth to the joy of becoming a teacher to the tragedy that happened; but in the end, it doesn’t leave you in tears,” Irving said. “It’s actually uplifting.” Once again, Irving found himself on the stage where 11 years earlier, he had performed a euphonium solo with overwhelming grief. This time, it was different.

“Having the chance to go back to TMEA and pay tribute to Isaiah on his instrument in that beautiful piece of music was strangely comforting and healing,” he said.

“I don’t understand the afterlife, but I know Isaiah was at that performance.

“With everything coming together as it did at this particular time, I don’t think it was by accident,” he said. “I believe that it was a wonderful gift that was just waiting to be presented.

“Even though Isaiah was gone before he himself had a chance to impact younger lives the way he wanted to, he continues to live through those of us who knew him.”

Ian Ray, another one of the Ray brothers, beautifully summed up the sentiment in the TMEA program.

“SIMPLY PUT, ISAIAH NO LONGER WAS, BUT IS. ISAIAH IS OUR DESIRE TO BE BETTER. HE IS OUR DISCIPLINE WHEN WE WANT TO GIVE UP. HE IS IN OUR REFLECTIONS OF SELF DOUBT, AND A CONSTELLATION IN OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES. ISAIAH IS THE INSPIRATIONAL RESIDUE THAT DRIPS INTO OUR CONSCIENCE WHEN FACED WITH DIFFICULT DECISIONS AND PROMISING OPPORTUNITIES. ISAIAH IS.”

47, Department of Theatre & Musical Theatre

THEATRE & MUSICAL THEATRE With proximity to Houston, the Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre offers many opportunities for students to interact with wellknown theatre companies and professionals in a major 21st century market. Graduates of this department have found success in educational and commercial careers, including Broadway productions, films, television programs, theatrical design, and choreography.

TOM

PRIOR M EI SN ER TECH NI Q U E written by Jackie Swan

Professor and newly appointed Department Chair Thomas Prior held a Zoom meeting with nearly three dozen members of the National Alliance of Acting Teachers to discuss a performance technique developed

by Sanford Meisner, an American actor and teacher. Meisner’s approach was monumental for helping actors connect emotionally with their scene work by shifting the focus from dialogue to a personal element of truth for a more genuine result.

In the Zoom meeting, former students Angie Utrera and Victor Flores demonstrated the Meisner technique by rehearsing a scene in which their characters were upset with each other. They verbally mocked each other for several minutes– vulgarities and all– to enhance the emotions of their characters fuel the fire behind the written dialogue.

Introducing Meisner actor training, Prior notes that “students in their early 20s sometimes have a hard time connecting with their personal element of truth. So, I push them into a zone of discomfort, and they’re surprised at how powerful the work is. I love the fact that when you’re

doing the work, you don’t know what is going to happen. There is no planning involved, save for the imagination work. It’s all based on reacting to what the other actor is giving. While we’re disconnected, it makes the power of trying to connect more real and visceral.”

View Tom Prior’s published essay, “The Relevance of the Meisner Technique in Today’s Actor Training,” in the book below.

D EPA RTM E N T O F T H E AT R E & M U S I CAL T H E AT R E T R I U M P H S

A T

R E G I O N A L

F E S T I V A L

written by Jackie Swan Sam Houston State University swept another year at the Regional VI Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival held in Abilene.

Students won all three performance -related national finalist positions: Musical Theatre Initiative (Brad Brickhouse), Student Directing Initiative (Angela Utrera), and Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship (Destiny Mosely).

Destiny Mosely is the first African American woman from SHSU to win this award.

Destiny Mosely, national finalist

“To the young black girls who enter the department at Sam Houston State University, this title is for them. It’s to show them that nothing is impossible, and the unachievable can be achieved,” said Mosely. “Having this title doesn’t mean the work is over, but it’s a pretty good start. I look forward to being a leader on and off camera, sharing what I learned throughout the process and helping better the next to come. I am honored to be the first and hopeful that I am not the last.”

SHSU also held the national runner-up for Musical Theatre Initiative and Student Directing Initiative, and won 10 other regional awards in acting, devising & directing and costume & scenic design. The winners are: Aly Alcorn for Outstanding Collaborative Team Dramaturgy Through Design, Marcella Alba and Chelsea MacElvaine for Open Scene Festival Challenge, Ben Stacher for Excellence in Scenic Design, Ashton Eichelman for Outstanding Unrealized Scenic Design, Hannah Anderson for Outstanding Unrealized Costume Design, Charles Mitchell for SDC Distinguished Achievement, Essence Fontenot for Excellence in Directing a Ten Minute Play, Destiny Mosely for Outstanding Performance in a Ten Minute Play, and Sarah Sachi Menendez for Irene Ryan Respondent for Best Comedy Performance.

Dominic Kelley received the National New Play Network MFA Fellowship in Acting/Directing, which will provide funding for him to advance his training and work with professional playwrights in Washington, D.C. “Having this award definitely builds confidence in how I feel about my work,” said regional winner Ben Stacher. “Any form of recognition reassures me that I am doing something right, plus having this title on my resume ensures a better chance at job opportunities in the future so I can continue doing what I love.”

Angela Utrera, national finalist

49, Student Success

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, the National Festival in Washington, D.C. was canceled. However, that has not stopped national finalist Angela Utrera from taking full advantage of her experience with KCACTF. “Though the festival was canceled, all of us have gotten in touch with each other and are excited to collaborate on something as a cohort,” she says. “Having this title has given me an extra push to move forward in my career as a director as well. I think it is very intimidating to say, ‘I am a 21-year-old woman, and I am a director.’ This title has opened new doors for me and given me the perspective that if you want something and work hard for it, you can have it.”

(l-r) Angela Utrera, Ephraim Tallerine, and company in the Fall 2019 production of Pride & Prejudice. (Photo by Craig Brossman)

(l-r) Brooke Tamayo, Riley Sugrue, Jared Holiday and company in the Fall 2019 musical production of Assassins. (Photo by Brandon Willis) National fellowship recipient Dominic Kelley (left) and Tyler Mahler in the Fall 2019 production of Everybody. (Photo by Criag Brossman)

(l-r) Noah Blessing, Brandon Willis (kneeling), Charles Mitchell, Brad Brickhouse (national finalist), Laurel Burrer, Josh Fulsom, Talor Arnett, Molly Breedlove, and Aodhan Brazil in the Fall 2019 musical production of Assassins. (Photo by Brandon Willis)

ARTI ST

ENCOURAGES CREATIVITY IN QUARANTINE written by Hannah Haney

BRYAN-KEYTH WILSON , former Musical Theatre student, is one of many artists getting creative from the comfort of his couch. Since March 2020, this Houstonbased author/playwright/publisher has been using social media to offer free online writing classes. Topics covered in his online courses range from The Snowflake Method to helping writers develop their characters and storyline.

Wilson is currently the artistic director of the Creative Co-lab, an interdisciplinary creative arts company located in Houston and also manages the daily operations of the Artists In Motion Performing & Visual Arts Academy. His artistic journey took off at Sam Houston State University where he received a scholarship from the Department of Dance and wrote his first play titled, “No Ways Tired.”

51, Artist Encourages Creativity in Quarantine

“These times we are living in have drained us emotionally, physically and creatively.

Theatres have been closed, contracted playwrights have been asked to give their advances back and we are at a standstill when it comes to working, but our creativity has to continue to flow and, we, as an artistic community, have to make ourselves accessible to the people,” Wilson said. “If you have a gift, share it and teach us. This is the perfect time to start on that book or play that you have been thinking about. Now is the time to get it done and I want to help. This time of social distancing does not mean that we have to distance ourselves creatively.”

DR. V I C K Y L A N TZ S E C R E T

( C O M M U N I T Y )

S E R V I C E

written by Emily Binetti When Vicky Lantz’s husband, Nick, was diagnosed with cancer in 2013, there was no way of knowing the positive impact those challenging six months at M.D. Anderson would have on her future.

“It was incredibly difficult, and after his treatment, I wondered how to be productive after such an experience with cancer,” she said. Less than a year later, she learned one of her closest friends had applied to volunteer for a pediatric oncology camp in the Pacific Northwest and Lantz found her calling. In summer 2014, the Camp Goodtimes chapter of her life began.

The Goodtimes Project is a non-profit organization that brings hope, love and joy to families dealing with a pediatric cancer diagnosis through camps, events and community. Camp Goodtimes embraces the concept that regardless of experience and health, campers can and should have a week where cancer takes a backseat to fun.

Lantz has held various positions over the past six years as a camp volunteer. Starting out as a “Spontinator,” she was in charge of bringing spontaneous joy all around camp.

“It is explosive, dynamic and fun. As a ‘Spont’, you do the camp-wide whipped cream fight, which is messy and one of the most fun experiences you never knew you were missing out on.” To engage more directly with campers, she became a part of Cabin Assistance Personnel, working with one cabin for a full week, helping kids adjust to camp to ensure a successful experience.

Lantz sees drama as an opportunity for genuine expressions of fun and emotion. “It also encourages empathy, and helps people connect through play. I utilize my years of experience in theatre for youth to help campers emotionally engage with each other,

dive into imaginative play and problem solve in positive and proactive ways,” she said.

As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre her skills come in handy for emceeing camp events, leading songs and creating skits and movies. Plus, her amusing costume creation talent is (clearly) top-notch.

“I always love the way we welcome kids to camp, with a gauntlet of super- excited staff dressed up in fun, bright outfits dancing and singing as all the kiddos parade in. It is two hours of amazing energy.”

The Goodtimes Project has since taken to virtual methods of spreading joy, needed now more than ever during a global pandemic.

Lantz served as Leader-in-Training Cocounselor for all-day Zoom summer camp and late -night dance parties for kids and older teens, many of whom are in their last year with the program. Though the future of in-person gatherings remains uncertain, Lantz will stop at nothing to ensure an unforgettable experience for everyone.

CAM GUEST ARTIST S

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“Bringing professional artists to campus through our guest artist series contributes to the cultural education of our students and also allows members of the community to experience renowned entertainment right here in Huntsville.”

- Dr. Ronald E. Shields, Dean College of Arts & Media

53, CAM Guest Artist Series

MERCURY CHAMBER ORCHESTRA written by Emily Binetti

Mercury Chamber Orchestra, the critically acclaimed Houston-based period instrument ensemble returned to Huntsville in October 2019 as part of the SHSU College of Arts & Media’s guest artist series.

Presenting works by Bach, Handel and Vivaldi, the evening also

THE TRAVELIN’ McCOURYS written by Hannah Haney

Legendary bluegrass group, The Travelin’ McCourys, have certainly done a lot of traveling in their career and show no signs of slowing. Amidst their tour that headlined historic venues and festivals across the country, the 2019

included SHSU professor Mario Aschauer. Serving as soloist on two selections, Aschauer played two early music instruments from the university’s collection-- a harpsichord and a baroque organ.

“It had been too long since we visited Huntsville, and Mercury was excited to return to the Sam Houston State campus and to perform with Mario, a wonderful collaborator on

Grammy award-winning group for “Best Bluegrass Album” took to the Gaertner Performing Arts Center stage in late February for an intimate performance hosted

by Sam Houston State University’s College of Arts & Media.

“Texas never disappoints,” band member Alan Bartram said. “We looked forward to getting back to

early music. This music is very special, and we love to bring it to new audiences,” The orchestra’s artistic director Antoine Plante said.

Mercury celebrated the power of music during its 19th season– from the Baroque period and more.

Conductor and Artistic Director Antoine Plante founded the group along with three friends, with the goal to enrich and entertain

the Lone Star state.”

The McCoury brothers- Ronnie (mandolin) and Rob (banjo)- honed their soulful sound after years on the road with their dad, Del, in the Del McCoury Band. Today, the five members of The Travelin’ McCourys are Ronnie and Rob McCoury, Cody Kilby, guitar, Jason Carter, fiddler, and Alan Bartram, bass.

audiences with an exciting repertoire of Baroque music performed on period instruments.

The ensemble gradually expanded its vision to offer fresh, original performances of a broader repertoire, and integrated multimedia, unique dance, costume and narrative elements into its programs.

They consider bluegrass to be both historic and progressive and have expanded their following beyond traditional bluegrass by working with artists in a variety of styles and genres. The Travelin’ McCourys’ reputation for experimentation has helped them blaze a trail of their own in the music industry.

TO OUR

DONORS

Because of the incredible generosity of our donors, the College of Arts & Media is able to provide exceptional opportunities that prepare and educate students for professional success and keep academic units within the College at the forefront of innovation through scholarships, an inspirational and talented faculty, and beautiful state-of-the-art facilities. The faculty, staff and students are deeply grateful for the support we receive from our benefactors and the partnership we have with each individual.“Thank You” to the following for your contributions. { January through December 2019 donors listed below}

Mr. Allen Adams Mr. and Mrs. Garrett Adams Mr. Randal L. Adams Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Adams Mrs. Jill Adams Ms. Gail Adler Mr. and Mrs. Richard O. Alba, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Alderson II Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Alexander Ms. Jmeka R. Allen Dr. and Mrs. Martin F. Amorous Mr. and Mrs. Alec D. Anderson Mrs. Brenda F. Anderson Rees Mr. and Mrs. Paolo Angelini Mr. Christopher A. Arcos Ms. Jamie D. Arlt Mr. and Mrs. William L. Atkins Ms. Jennifer Auerbach Mr. William B. Aycock Ms. Sharon E. Balke Dr. and Mrs. Jason Barker Mr. and Mrs. John A. Barnhill Ms. Melissa Barrett Mr. William A. Bartlett Mr. and Mrs. James R. Bates II Mr. and Mrs. Bradley A. Baumgarten Ms. B. Jean Bawden Ms. Rhonda V. Beassie Ms. Georgianne Beissner Mr. Michael Blackshear and Mrs. Tarvia M. Bell Blackshear Mr. and Mrs. Dale L. Benke Mr. and Mrs. Chris Bennett Mr. Wayne Bennett Mr. Devin M. Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Frank L. Bertone Mrs. Emily J. Binetti Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Binford Mr. Stephen M. Blank Mr. Kevin S. Blanton Ms. Coralie Blount Dr. Jean R. Bodon Mr. Jordan B. Bontke Ms. M. Kate Borcherding Mrs. Linda B. Borja Ms. Rasika N. Borse Dr. Tony Boutte Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bowling Mr. and Mrs. D. Bruce Boyd Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Brian Boyd

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EARN YOUR DEGREE WITH

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA A RT

DAN CE

Art, BA Animation, BFA Graphic Design, BFA Photography, BFA Studio Art, BFA 2-D 3-D Art Education, Teaching Certification Art & Social Practice, MFA – Fall 2021

Dance, BFA Dance, MFA

Minors in Art History, Graphic Design, Photography, and 2D and 3D Studio Art

MUS I C Music, BA Music, BM Composition Music Education, Teaching Certification Instrumental String Vocal Performance Instrumental Piano Vocal Music Therapy, BM Band Studies, MA Music, MM Collaborative Piano/Chamber Music Composition Conducting Instrumental Performance Musicology Music Therapy Piano Performance Vocal Performance Minor in Music Performer’s Certificate: Post Baccalaureate Artist Diploma Certificate: Post-Master’s

Minor in Dance

M ASS COMM Mass Communication, BA Broadcast Production Film Multiplatform Journalism Public Relations & Advertising Mass Communication, Teaching Certification Film and Television Production, BFA Digital Media, MA Digital Media Production, MFA Minors in Film Studies and Sports Media Graduate Certificate in Health Communication and Public Relations

T H E ATRE & M USICA L THEATRE Musical Theatre, BFA Theatre Dance Theatre, BFA Acting and Directing Design and Technology Theatre Studies Theatre Education, Teaching Certification Minor in Theatre

DAN RAT H E R B E A R K A T

C O U R A G E

Dan Rather, Bearkat Courage, 58

College of Arts & Media Office of the Dean Box 2393, Huntsville, TX 77340-2393

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