Issuu

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

MAGAZINE

2024-2025

transformed ArtsKSU.com

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

magazine

A Message from the Dean

Thank You, Donors!

Endowments and Scholarships

Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts Named

Renowned Visual Artist Named Dean

Nabb Named Director of Bailey School of Music

GCA Presents: "Sondheim on Sondheim"

Zuckerman Museum Hosts Landmark Exhibition

Annual GCA "Interchange" Celebrates Collaboration

A Q&A with 40 Under 40 Owl: Ben Rawson

"Properties of Being" Dance Concert

A Journey of Passion and Philanthropy

Alumnus Rian Penrod Thrives at Marvel Studios

A Festive Celebration: The 2024 Holiday Concert

Taking a 'Cue from Realism TV: "Barbecue"

Alumna Creates Piece for Administration Suite

TPS Student Uncovers Work of Caribbean Playwrights

Passion for Opera Fuels Student's Research

There's Magic to Do with "Pippin"

Master's Degree Alumna Joins Tellus Science Museum

Two World Premieres in "Double Exposure"

Dr. Laurence Sherr Retires after 30 Years at the BSOM

Director, School of Art and Design Geo Sipp

"Macbeth" takes over at Kennesaw State

Chair, Department of Dance Marsha Barsky

Dance Majors Shine at Annual Student Dance Concert

Arianna String Quartet Gives a Masterful Performance

Celebrating the Retirement of Ming Chen

Collage Concert Honors Robert S. "Bob" Geer

Pursuing Excellence: Dance Student Allison Behrend

Roomful of Teeth Delivers Stunning Performance

Amanda Wansa Morgan Spotlights Women in Theater

Creativity Celebrated at the Spring Arts Festival

Anne Plamondon Productions: "MYOKINE"

"Dog Act" Comedic Apocalypse Hits KSU Stage

KSU Graduate Embraces the Art of Research

BSOM Student Ignites Passion for Singing

ZMA Presents Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles

Tales from Freedom Riders One-Man Performance

Full Radius Offered Inspiring Dance Performance

Graduate Brings Two Worlds Together

Digital Animation Department Presents Owl Film Festival

2024-2025 Editor Brooke Marier Graphic Designers Adelin Roosekrans Joshua Stone Writers Kathie Beckett Darius Goodman Brooke Marier Abram Miller Alyssa Ozment Dave Shelles Photographers Casey Ford Lauren Liz Photography Brooke Marier Dan Meyers Judith Pishnery DV Photo Video (Anmarie Van Wetering) Darnell Wilburn Matthew Yung Interim Dean, Geer College of the Arts Valerie Morris Interim Senior Associate Dean, Geer College of the Arts Leslie J. Blackwell Associate Dean, Geer College of the Arts Peter Fielding

Director, Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music Nathan Nabb Chair, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies Chuck Meacham ArtsKSU Magazine is published by the Geer College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University, 1200 Chastain Road, Suite 302, Kennesaw, GA 30144. Copyright 2025.

Front cover: Theo Vilamitjana. Image by Lauren Liz Photography.

TABLE of CONTENTS

Gee r Co l le ge of t he A r t s

A Message from the DEAN

hen serving only a year as interim dean, every occasion stands out as an exciting new adventure. Even given that fact, the 2024-2025 academic year has been more significant than could possibly have been expected. Most significant was the renaming of the College of the Arts in January, halfway through my tenure. Thanks to a magnificent bequest of more than $11 million from Robert S. Geer, who many of you knew, the college officially became the Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts, shortened to GCA for Geer College of the Arts. I even have two complete sets of differently worded business cards. This was also the year that a new strategic plan was created by the university, and shortly thereafter, by the college, departments, and schools. This plan exemplifies our status as a distinguished Carnegie R2 Institution, and outlines our goal for national prominence. A key component of our strategic plan is the transformation of Chastain Pointe, currently a series of warehouses, into a major regional arts center. The Department of Dance facilities already housed at Chastain Pointe are exceptional—please visit them when you have the opportunity. Additionally, printmaking, painting, and drawing studios, set and costume shops, and marketing and advising offices are already located there. Soon, the entire School of Art and Design will join them, further enhancing this vibrant arts hub. We have had an exceptional year, highlighted by performances from the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, the Bailey School of Music, and the Department of Dance, exhibits from the School of Art and Design, and numerous public lectures—nearly 200 events in total. The college continues to grow, now boasting close to 1,900 majors. The School of Art and Design remains the largest area, with more than 1,200 majors, followed by the Bailey School of Music with 255, Theatre and Performance Studies with 233, and the Department of Dance with 128. Our faculty comprises more than 85 full-time and 192 part-time members, supported by 37 full-time and 71 part-time staff. By any standard, we are a major arts center. The next dean, Jawshing Arthur Liou, arrives on July 1, 2025. He is in for a wonderful experience. I have greatly enjoyed my time here and look forward to seeing many of you at the planned Oct. 18 Gala. Prof. Valerie B. Morris Interim Dean, Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts

u o Y k n a h T Continued support from friends, faculty, staff, alumni, patrons, and parents has enabled ArtsKSU to reach a greater level of excellence and attract top-notch undergraduate and graduate students. The Geer College of the Arts remains a leader in arts higher education thanks to the charitable gifts we receive from our generous donors. At ArtsKSU, donors truly make all the difference. Gifts during calendar year 2024: $10,000,000+ Estate of Robert S. Geer $50,000+ Glenn E. Conner Revocable Trust Katherine Scott Jim and Ann Wallace $25,000+ D. Russell Clayton John and Linda Cooke Alice Glover Jerry and Linda Richman Don Vellek $10,000+ Estate of Emily Bourne Grigsby Audrey Morgan Rockley Family Foundation Windgate Foundation $5,000+ Acworth Cultural Arts Pamela Hubby Joseph D. Meeks Ivan Pulinkala Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation Trent and LaSona Turk Horace and Susan White $2,500+ Jerry and Jean Cooper Teresa Joyce Jo Ann Durham and Leo Perras South Cobb Rotary Club Alice Walker Vickie Zuffoletti $1,000+ Marcie Anthone Subhi Sherwell and Laura Bodell-Sherwell Julia Bullard Cobb County Music Teachers Association Pam Cole

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Karen Robinson and Richard Garner Joan Harrell Saul Levy Cheryl and Ron Matson Scott and Grace Shickler Tim Ste. Marie David and Robyn Tatu Alice Walker Lana Wachniak and William Wallace J. David Watkins $500+ Robert and Linda Bonstein Angie Brown Marianne Crew Ricky Greenwell Kimberly-Clark Corporation Wendy Lerner Bob and Janet Limyansky Alivia Kazer Lipson Judith Pishnery Ron Rosen Renee Torobin Women's Commerce Club $250+ Marsha Barsky Kathie Beckett Bill and April Conaway Tracy and Allyson Coultas Chris Dowden Peter Fielding Teresa Fortner Tim McClelland Chuck Meacham Shuchita Mishra James and Marianna Rothschild Robert Sherman Robert Shippey Geo Sipp Michael Streger $1-$249 Luis and Virna Alvarez Camden Anich Anonymous Samantha Armstrong Austin Arnold

Emily Atkeison Jasmine Avecilla James Barket Shirley Barranger David and Lisa Beasley Julia Becker Ben Beebe Julia Bellezza Paige Benson Mason Black Jeanette Bliss Eli and Angela Boice David and Brittney Bottoms Matthew Boullain Dorothy Brandenburg Annie Bresler Macy Briley William and Nancy Brock Devin Brookins Za'Kiya Brown Genevieve Brugger Nichole Bryant Ellie Bryant Carlton Burke Evan Bursinger Taylor Carstens Dillon Caudell John Chapman Kevin and Maria Chung Destiny Clark Matthew Clark Austin and Rachel Coker Edward and Donna Colebeck Tosha Connors Brian Coski Christine Daniel Ethan David Maddie David Teka Davidson Amy Davis Jim Davis Conner Densmore Alex Dohany Melody Donamire and Nathaniel Parker Mykalea Earnhardt Jimmy Ebersold Darlene Echols

u,D O N O R S ! Amy Edwards Eric Evans Larry Faskowitz Tessa Fjelland Annabeth Fox Charleston Fox Seth Gallman Kya Garibaldi Hannah Grecko Nathasha Habers Jeffrey Hahn Renae Hale Wyl Harrison Debra Hill Ashley Holbrooks Autum Horton Alex Hostetter Eric Huls Conner Hursh Bee Ivie Angela Jackson Charles and Jane Jackson Daniel Jacobs Cheryl Jacoby Brooke Johnson Keith and Teresa Jones Mia Jordan Emily Kaman Mark and Aimee Kane Jeremy Kariuki David Kehler John King Bailee Koury-Morgan Kiedrich Kromp Lynn Kunkel Lauren Kutch Glenn and Arlene La Vine Robert and Sherri Lamar Kristina Lang Austin Latimer Zoe Laux Caitlin Leamon Louis Livingston Anna Long Travis Longenberger Larry Lord and Peggy Walker Lord Kyle Loughman Zhen-Huan Lu and Ming Chen Nick Massaroni

Jacob and Shelby Matthews Wesley McDonald Michael McGehee Dennis and Amanda McGrew Robert McTyre Rylee Milton Katherine Mitchell Eileen Moremen Amanda Morgan Hannah Moxley John and Laura Najarian Allison Nance DeDe Nichols Shaquille Nicolas Sharlande Nicolas Maura Nolan James Johnson and Marilyn Nolan-Johnson Kevin Olsen Misaki Onohara Christina Paloski Kaci Pederson Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pendergrass Kay Peninger Gloria Perlestein Tanner Peters Kahlil Phillips Kylah Pollard Kaelyn Putnam Rachel Ray James and Sara Rechsteiner Megan Rikard and Brad Rikard De'Ametrein Robinson Emily Roper Hunter Schleis Alan Sears Megan Shadburn Allaa Sharif Grace Shell Laurence Sherr Laura Shyman Heather Sillence Samuel Skelton Seven Smith Victoria Sobol Randall Solomon Matt and Laura Southern Kara Stanley Matthew Strotman

Jonathan Swann Alejandra Thomas Elizabeth Thomas Debra Traficante Amber Tubbs Katie Ude Jordan Vann Darren Villegas Barron Wallace Jeremy Walts Adam Waugh Sophia Weckerle Todd Wedge SaraJane Weinstein Evan Welch Frank and Lynn Wigington Valerie Wilcox Diane Willey Alex Williams Lisa Williams Susie Wilson Jimmy Wolfe Joseph Woodruff Jeff and Bess Yunek The Geer College of the Arts wishes to recognize donors who have made contributions toward transformational multi-year pledges: Acworth Cultural Arts D. Russell Clayton John and Linda Cooke Robert S. Geer Glenn E. Conner Revocable Trust Emily Bourne Grigsby Jerry and Linda Richman Karen Robinson and Richard Garner Don Vellek Frank Walsh Jim and Ann Wallace Windgate Foundation

Endowments & Scholarships 10 for 10 Annual Music Scholarship Acworth Cultural Arts Endowed Scholarship for the College of the Arts Alice Lennie Glover Music Scholarship Annual Dance (Choreography) Scholarship April Conaway Endowed Scholarship Arts Dean’s Endowed Scholarship Athos Menaboni Art Fund Athos Menaboni Art Research Scholarship Athos Menaboni Endowment Fund Athos Menaboni Gallery Atlanta Steinway Society Annual Scholarship Atlanta Steinway Society Endowed Scholarship Audrey and Jack Morgan Music Scholarship Audrey Bailey Morgan Distinguished Endowed Dean’s Chair in the College of the Arts Austin Burruss Endowment Austin Burruss Endowment: College of the Arts Auta Lopes Endowed Scholarship for the College of the Arts Ayokunle Odeleye Minority Endowed Arts Scholarship Barbara Jane Swindell Endowed Scholarship in Visual Arts Barry and Sylvia Hyman Endowed Art Scholarship Beauregard-Vellek Dance Study Abroad Scholarship Beauregard-Vellek Endowed Scholarship for Marching Band Betty and Joel Siegel Theatre Scholarship Black and Gold Scholar College of the Arts Brian Miller Memorial Music Award Cam and Marti Graham Theatre and Performances Studies Cam and Tracy Graham Endowed Scholarship Cam Graham Theatre & Performance Studies Theatre Internship Cheryl and Ron Baer Endowed Scholarship in Theatre and Performance Studies Cobb County Music Teachers’ Annual Scholarship College of the Arts Annual General Scholarship College of the Arts Annual Senior Dance Scholarship College of the Arts Dance Scholarship College of the Arts Scholarship in Music College of the Arts Scholarship in Theatre and Performance Studies College of the Arts Visual Arts Scholarship Cup of Kindness Scholarship Cynthia Feldberg Endowed Piano Scholarship Don Freeman Clayton Theater Scholarship

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Don Russell Clayton Digital Arts Scholarship Don Russell Clayton Music Scholarship Don Russ Music Scholarship Dorothy G. Keith Endowed Scholarship for Visual Arts Dorothy G. Keith Endowed Scholarship for Vocal Performance Dr. Bobbie Bailey Endowed Music Scholarship Dr. Leslie J Blackwell Annual Scholarship in Choral Music Dr. Mary Ursits Endowed Scholarship for the School of Art and Design Dr. Oral L. Moses Endowed Scholarship Eleo Pomare-Glenn Conner Choreographic Residency Endowment Eleo Pomare-Glenn Conner Excellence in Dance Scholarship Emily Bourne Grigsby Visual Arts Scholarship Eric and Gwendolyn Brooker Endowed Voice Scholarship Flo Bruns Memorial/Women’s Commerce Club Scholarship Florence B. Beddingfield Memorial Art Scholarship Frank O. Walsh Endowed Program Support for Printmaking Fred D. Bentley Sr. Scholarship (Visual Arts) Geraldine Barmore Clayton Music Scholarship Glenn E. Conner Dance II Scholarship Glenn Hollingsworth, Jr. Endowed Scholarship (Music) Glenn Hollingsworth, Jr. Endowed Scholarship (Theatre) Glenn Hollingsworth, Jr. Endowed Scholarship (Visual Arts) Gretchen Van Roy Voice Endowed Scholarship H. Fred Rodenhausen Endowed Music Scholarship Harold R. Wise, Jr. Endowed Scholarship for the Bailey School of Music J. David Watkins Annual Scholarship in Piano J. David Watkins Endowed Scholarship in Piano Performance James and Cecelia Dunn Endowed Art Scholarship James Gregory Endowed Scholarship James P. Smith Memorial Art Scholarship James T. Anderson, Jr. Scholarship (College of the Arts) James T. Weis Endowed Scholarship for the College of the Arts Jeanette and George Pulinkala Leadership in Dance Scholarship Jimmy Mays and Valerie Whittlesey-Mays Scholarship for the Arts Jim Wallace Theater and Performance Art Fund Joan Harrell Annual Dance Scholarship Jo Ann Durham Arts Endowed Scholarship (Dance) Jo Ann Durham Endowed Arts Scholarship (Music) Jo Ann Durham Endowed Arts Scholarship (Theatre and Performance Studies) Jo Ann Durham Endowed Arts Scholarship (Visual Arts)

Maurice Clermont performing "Being Alive" from "Company" in Sondheim on Sondheim. Image by Casey Ford.

Interested in supporting scholarships? Please email Kay Peninger, kpeninge@kennesaw.edu.

Joe Daniell Music Fund John and Linda Cooke Scholarship for Violin John and Linda Cooke String Quartet Scholars John Collar South Cobb Rotary Arts Scholarship John Gentile Performance Studies Endowed Scholarship John Gentile Performance Studies Scholarship Joseph D. Meeks Music Endowed Scholarship Julia Clayton Gresham College of the Arts Scholarship June Boykin Tindall Dance Scholarship Karen Robinson Endowed Scholarship for Theatre & Performance Studies Katherine A. Scott Endowed Music Scholarship Kennesaw State University Community & Alumni Choir Choral Scholarship KSU Annual Flourish Dance Scholarship KSU Annual Flourish Music Scholarship KSU Annual Flourish Theatre and Performance Studies Scholarship KSU Annual Flourish Visual Arts Scholarship KSU Dance Clinic Scholarship KSU Marching Owls General Scholarship KSU Music Clinic Annual Scholarship KSU Theatre and Performance Arts Clinic Scholarship KSU Visual Arts Clinic Lillias B. Prillaman Visual Arts Endowed Scholarship Lipson Family Percussion Endowment Mandy Krasner Memorial Endowed Scholarship Manny Beauregard & Don Vellek Endowed Scholarship for Theatre & Performance Studies Martha Thompson Dinos Music Performance Scholarship honoring Dean Emeritus Joseph D. Meeks Marti M. Graham Memorial Endowed Dance Scholarship Mary and Bruce Clayton Family Scholarship in Honor of Sam Skelton Mattie Borders Proctor Endowed Scholarship for Instrumentalists Mattie Borders Proctor Fellowship Endowment Michael Edwin Lipps II Memorial Arts Endowed Scholarship Music Department Endowed Scholarship Nick S. Labroff Memorial Endowed Piano and Voice Scholarship Onyx Theater Endowment Oral Moses Endowed Voice Scholarship Pamela J. Hubby Endowed Scholarship for the College of the Arts Pomare-Conner Memorial Endowed Fund for Dance R. Wayne Gibson Annual Music Scholarship

R. Wayne Gibson Endowed Piano & Voice Scholarship Robert and Alivia Lipson Endowed Arts Scholarship (Music) Robert and Cheryl Moultrie Endowed Arts Scholarship (Visual Arts) Robert Sherer LGBTQ+ Visual Arts Scholarship Ronald and Cheryl Matson Endowed Scholarship Sam Wilhoit Jazz Endowed Scholarship in Music School of Music Annual Scholarship School of Music Outreach Scholarship Sharon Lea Strong Endowment for Steinway Pianos & Sharon Lea Strong Gift for Instrument Care Susan and Horace White Annual Music Scholarship Ted and Roberta Griffin Visual Arts Scholarship Tena E. Redding Endowed Arts Scholarship Terri and Jeff Wigley Marching Owls Scholarship Theatre and Performance Studies Annual Scholarship Theatre and Performance Studies Faculty Benefit Performance Study Abroad Scholarship The Byk-Girardot Family Scholarship The Color Spot, Inc. Endowed Fund The Jerry & Linda Richman Family Endowed Scholarship of Music The Jerry & Linda Richman Excellence in Theatre Scholarship The Lana Wachniak and William Wallace Today’s Promise Endowed Scholarship The LaSona and Trent Turk Endowed Scholarship for the College of the Arts The Malone Endowed Music Scholarship Thomson Salter-Salova King Foundation Scholarship Valerie Dibble Endowed Scholarship in honor of Frank Walsh and James Montgomery Virginia Tumlin Endowed Music Scholarship Visual Arts Endowed Scholarship Visual Arts Studies Abroad Scholarship Fund Wachovia Endowed Theatre Scholarship Wendy Lerner Endowed Scholarship for the Bailey School of Music Youth Bands of Atlanta Scholarship

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts named at Kennesaw State University By Kathie Beckett

Over $10 million gift will help to build the Arts District at KSU

he College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University (KSU) has been renamed the Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts, thanks to a generous bequest from the late Mr. Robert “Bob” S. Geer. Geer first announced his intention to bequeath his entire estate, valued at over $10 million, during the ArtsKSU Gala in October 2022. In a surprise announcement via video that night, Geer shared his philosophy and motivation to give, while outlining his impetus to support arts education at KSU. “This redheaded, freckled farm boy grew up very poor but with a passion for art, music—piano in particular—and dance. One of my goals has always been the love of learning, to see that sense of achievement that comes through learning.”

A strong work ethic always played a significant role in Geer’s family, even during the Great Depression, when piano lessons were paid for with vegetables or molasses from the family farm. “My Dad always told us to do a little bit more than what is expected of you, and you will do fine. I have followed that all my life, and it worked,” Geer said. “Bob’s journey epitomized the values of hard work, perseverance, and a love of learning,” said KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig. “Like so many of our students at KSU, he came from very humble beginnings. His story was one of remarkable achievement and great commitment, resulting in a transformational impact on the Geer College of the Arts.” After serving in the military during World War II, Geer attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He then accepted a position at a company that later became Norfolk Southern, where he rose to the rank of vice president. He retired in 1985 and enjoyed volunteering, particularly with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Steinway Society. At one of those volunteer events, he met Joseph Meeks, Founding Dean of the Geer College of the Arts. Meeks introduced Geer to current KSU Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ivan Pulinkala, who at the time was serving as the Dean of the Geer College of the Arts. Pulinkala and Geer had an immediate connection and developed a close friendship that became the foundation for the transformational bequest.

Image courtesy of Robert "Bob" S. Geer.

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KSU Provost Ivan Pulinkala and Robert S. "Bob" Geer. Image by Matthew Yung.

Pulinkala shared his vision with Geer that ArtsKSU would have one of the Southeast’s largest arts training facilities. Inspired and intrigued, Geer sought to learn more as he searched for a way to permanently establish his family legacy through arts education.Geer and Pulinkala spent countless hours together, visiting the site for the future Geer College of the Arts (GCA) and spending time enjoying some of the many performances and exhibitions produced by ArtsKSU annually. “What started as a professional connection became a friendship that I will cherish forever. Bob was a brilliant and accomplished patriot who cared deeply about the arts,” said Pulinkala. “Learning about his life journey was inspirational and am grateful that his legacy will live on through ArtsKSU.”

Geer passed away on March 28, 2024, just shy of his 100th birthday. The University System of Georgia Board of Regents authorized the renaming of the Geer College of the Arts in Geer’s honor, one of the highest and most distinguished honors it can bestow. ArtsKSU celebrated the renaming—and Geer’s enduring legacy—at the Collage Concert on Feb. 8, 2025. In his announcement video, Geer ended by saying, “The Geer family—Mary, Robert Jr., and I—will always be looking down with love and joy on every student who benefits from our gift. God bless you all!” 

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

Renowned Visual Artist Named Dean By Kathie Beckett

In his role as dean, Liou will serve as the chief academic officer for the Geer College and set its strategic, operational, and financial directions, while providing leadership for its approximately 1,920 undergraduate and graduate students and nearly 300 faculty and staff. In collaboration with College leadership, faculty, the Academic Deans Council, and the provost, Liou will execute a strategy to ensure academic excellence and foster student success and engagement. This strategy will also promote research and creative activities and strengthen connections to the wider community. “Arthur is a visionary leader and accomplished artist whose leadership comes at a pivotal time, as the College embarks on an exciting period of growth,” Kennesaw State President Kathy S. Schwaig said. “His dedication to the arts and commitment to collaboration will undoubtedly elevate the Geer College of the Arts, strengthening its impact both locally and globally.”

“

At Indiana University, Liou serves a significant role in the university leadership, including as a member of the 2030 Executive Leadership Team, the Campus Budget Model Redesign Steering Committee, and the director of the Arts and Humanities AI + Digital Futures Program. He was previously associate dean of the Eskenazi School and director of the Hope School of Fine Arts. Liou is nationally recognized by two leadership fellowships from the Big 10 Academic Alliance, an elected board of directors position for the College Arts Association (CAA), and the Emerging Arts Administrators Fellowship from the National Council of Arts Administrators (NCAA). “Arthur brings an impressive blend of artistic achievement and academic leadership experience to the Geer College of the Arts. His ability to cultivate interdisciplinary collaborations and infuse technology into artistic practice, makes him an outstanding addition to KSU's dynamic leadership team. I look forward to working closely with him to advance the national prominence of the Geer College of the Arts," KSU Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs Ivan Pulinkala said.

“

ennesaw State University has named renowned visual artist Jawshing Arthur Liou as dean of the Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts, effective July 1, 2025. Liou, who was named dean following a national search, is currently the Herman B Wells Endowed Professor at the Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design at Indiana University, Bloomington.

I am excited to join the Geer College of the Arts and its extraordinary community of colleagues and students.

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- Jawshing Arthur Liou

Liou's artistic background spans across photography, digital media, film, and journalism. His work has been featured in programs, exhibitions, and collections in major museums and art festivals around the world including the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Rubin Museum in New York, Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Seoul Museum of Art, National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, Red Brick Museum in Beijing, and National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia. “I am excited to join the Geer College of the Arts and its extraordinary community of colleagues and students. This opportunity is both a privilege and an immense responsibility, and I embrace it with a strong commitment to growth, collaboration, and innovation,” Liou said. “I look forward to working alongside the diverse talents in the college and across campus to celebrate our shared passion for the arts.”

Jawshing Arthur Liou. Image courtesy of Jawshing Arthur Liou.

Liou received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the National Chengchi University in Taipei, Taiwan. He earned a Master of Fine Arts in photography and electronic intermedia from the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida. 

Jawshing Arthur Liou, The Insatiable, 2011. Animation and video, video installation. Image courtesy of Chi-Wen Gallery Website.

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

Nathan Nabb Named Director By Brooke Marier

Dr. Nathan Nabb holds a wealth of experience in music education and performance

r. Nathan Nabb was named director of the Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music, effective July 1, 2024.

Nabb brought with him a wealth of experience in music education and performance. He most recently served as the Director of the School of Music at Stephen F. Austin State University. He previously taught at Stephen F. Austin State University, Chongqing Normal University, the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Morehead State University, and the University of Illinois. He has given clinics in prestigious programs in North America, Europe, and Asia. His dedication to excellence in music education is reflected in the success of his students, who have achieved recognition in solo and chamber music competitions and are now flourishing as performers and educators in high school and university programs across the country. A globally recognized symphonic concert saxophonist, Nabb has distinguished himself as a soloist and clinician at prestigious events and venues worldwide. He has performed at the World Saxophone Congress, North American Saxophone Alliance, Navy Band Saxophone Symposium, as well as prominent schools of music and saxophone studios throughout the United States, France, Taiwan, Japan, Spain, Greece, Norway, Canada and China. “I was thrilled to welcome Dr. Nabb to the Bailey School of Music,” said Interim Dean Morris. “His expertise and passion for music were invaluable in advancing our commitment to student success and excellence.”

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Nabb maintains an active and multifaceted concert schedule with performances in solo, chamber, and orchestral settings, including numerous international engagements at music festivals and conservatories throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

As an orchestral musician, Nathan regularly performs with the St. Louis Symphony, Houston Symphony, and Atlanta Symphony. He has also performed with the Minnesota Orchestra, New World Symphony, IRIS Chamber Orchestra, and more. Orchestral performance highlights include concerto performances with St. Louis and Houston Symphonies, as well as multiple European tours featuring concerts at the BBC Proms, Berlin Philharmonie, Elbphilharmonie, Salle Pleyel, Vienna Konzerthaus, Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone (Academy of St. Cecilia), and many more. “I am honored to have joined the Bailey School of Music. The opportunity to contribute to such a vibrant and esteemed music community has been incredibly exciting,” said Nabb. “I look forward to continuing to collaborate with the talented students, faculty, and staff to further elevate the Bailey School of Music’s commitment to artistic and scholarly excellence.”  Images by Matthew Yung.

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

The Robert S. Geer College of the Arts Presents: "Sondheim on Sondheim" By Brooke Marier

"No One is Alone" resonated through this collaborative production featuring the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies and the Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music

he Robert S. Geer College of the Arts (GCA) was thrilled to present a special production of Sondheim on Sondheim, a symphonic revue celebrating the timeless music and lyrics of Stephen Sondheim, from Friday, April 11, to Sunday, April 13. This unique performance featured members of the Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music (BSOM) Symphony Orchestra and Opera Theatre, and the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies (TPS) musical theatre students.

were utilized: from the beautiful Morgan Concert Hall to the expertise of the TPS production and design faculty, staff, and students, the show was brought to life in a spectacular fashion. “Bringing together the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, Opera Theatre, and Symphony Orchestra seems like a huge undertaking—and it is—but it was a very smooth process, and I knew that the resulting performances would be outstanding,” says Parker.

About the Show Sondheim on Sondheim is a revue showcasing some of Sondheim’s most beautiful music. Amanda Wansa Morgan, the show’s director, elaborates, “Think of it like a variety show of the hits; or, in this case, some of the beautiful, lesser-known gems.” This symphonic version, designed for a full symphony orchestra, includes musical numbers from Sondheim’s entire repertoire, accompanied by video interviews with Sondheim himself. The show promises a spectacular blend of live music, video, and lighting design. Nathaniel F. Parker, conductor, says, “I think the whole concept is really unique: a ‘live’ performance of Stephen Sondheim narrating the performance of a revue from many of the great musicals by Stephen Sondheim. In some ways, the show is simultaneously a spoken and musical biography of Sondheim.”

Unique Elements The symphonic version of Sondheim on Sondheim had only been performed a handful of times due to its scale. Due to the scale of this production, most theaters only have the ability to do the version that features a cast of eight and a band of seven. However, that was not the case with this production! Joshua Zink, the music director for the performance, highlighted at the time, "Unlike a traditional musical or opera production, the entire orchestra and cast will be onstage simultaneously rather than in an orchestra pit. Visually, the audience can expect 100 people on stage!" The production featured a full symphony orchestra on stage, a video wall showcasing interviews with Sondheim, and lighting design by TPS lighting design professor Hernando Claros-Velasco. The audience witnessed a visually and aurally stunning experience.

Collaboration Highlights The collaboration between TPS and BSOM brought together an incredibly talented group of students and faculty. All of GCA's resources

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Timeless Relevance Sondheim’s work continues to resonate with audiences today due to his ability to tap into the human experience. Wansa Morgan explains, "Sondheim had the unique skill of tapping into so many elements of the human experience – some of which he knew about firsthand and some of which he connected to sympathetically. He wrote beautiful, timely lyrics about loneliness, love, joy, parenting, and everything in between."

Audience Takeaway The themes of collaboration and vulnerability were central to this production. Through Sondheim’s interviews, the audience gained an intimate look at his creative process. Wansa Morgan says, "The main themes of this show are collaboration and the vulnerability of creating something. Since the interviews with Sondheim are about his process in writing these shows, it’s an intimate look at how vulnerable writing and creating can be." 

Standout Moments The show featured standout performances such as a beautiful vocal arrangement of “Something’s Coming” by eight BSOM Opera Theatre students, and full-cast arrangements of “Sunday” from Sunday in the Park with George and “Children Will Listen” from Into the Woods. Zink shared, "As the music director, I’ve always had a soft spot for 'Sunday.' It evokes aspects of humanity we all share. We all make choices and mistakes but can start a blank canvas at any moment."

CREDITS: Sondheim on Sondheim is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com Sondheim on Sondheim: Symphonic Version Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Conceived and Directed on Broadway by James Lapine Inspired by a concept by David Keman Originally produced on Broadway by Roundabout Theatre Company: Todd Haimes, Artistic Director; Harold Wolpert, Managing Director; Julia C. Levy, Executive Director

Left: Ashton Harden as Sweeney Todd. Below: Sondheim on Sondheim Ensemble. Images by Casey Ford.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art Hosted Landmark Exhibition of Acclaimed Native American Artist Jeffrey Gibson By Kathie Beckett

Jeffrey Gibson's Visionary Works Illuminated Modernism and Contemporary Art at KSU's Zuckerman Museum of Art

he Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art, a unit of Kennesaw State University’s School of Art and Design, was pleased to host an extraordinary exhibition featuring the works of Jeffrey Gibson, one of today's foremost artists. The exhibition, Jeffrey Gibson: They Teach Love, From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, showcased over 35 captivating objects spanning 15 years of Gibson's prolific career. The free exhibition ran from August 27 to December 7, 2024. Gibson, an artist of Mississippi Choctaw and Cherokee heritage, was chosen to represent the United States in April 2024 at the Venice Biennale, an internationally renowned art exhibition held every two years in Italy. The event highlighted contemporary art from around the world, and it served as a platform for cultural exchange. “Having followed Jeffrey’s career over the past several years, I was thrilled to congratulate him for this exemplary and well-deserved recognition as one of the country’s most lauded artists,” said ARTnews Top 200 Art Collector Jordan D. Schnitzer. “I feel very fortunate to own more than 50 works by Gibson, which were exhibited together in this powerful exhibition at Kennesaw State University.” Gibson's work celebrates the rich cultural heritage of his Cherokee and Choctaw roots while seamlessly blending elements of modernism and contemporary popular and queer culture. His multimedia practice promotes strength, joy, and resilience. The works showcased in the Zuckerman Museum of Art (ZMA) exhibition delved into Gibson's exploration of radical transformation,

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both in objects and people, as he took viewers on a journey through printmaking, photography, painting, sculpture, and contemporary adornment in fashion. The display also included recent works exploring performance, installation, and video, revealing the artist's foray into new expressive forms. One of the highlights of the exhibition was the centerpiece work, “To Name An Other,” an immersive installation consisting of 51 screen-printed elk hide drums and 50 wearable garments. Originally commissioned as a performance by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, the installation marked a pivotal moment in Gibson's career, where he embraces collective-based projects and performances to engage the communities he collaborates with. “We were truly honored to have the opportunity to share Gibson’s visionary work with our KSU community and the Metro Atlanta area,” said Cynthia Nourse Thompson, Director of Curatorial Affairs at the ZMA.

Born in 1972 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Gibson has traversed major urban centers across the world. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1995 and a Master of Arts in painting at the Royal College of Art, London, in 1998. As a citizen of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and of Cherokee heritage, Gibson's work is deeply rooted in his identity and experiences.

This traveling exhibition was organized by the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, Washington State University and was curated by Ryan Hardesty, Executive Director. Support for this exhibition and related education and outreach programs was made possible by a grant from the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation. 

Jeffrey Gibson (Native American, Mississippl Band of Choctaw Indlans and Cherokee (b. 1972)) A Time For Change, edition 10/24, 2020 acrylic matte primer, screenprint, acrylic gloss varnish on handmade elk hide drum 253/4 x 253/4 x 41/2 in. Collection of the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation. Image: Aaron Wessling Photography, Courtesy of Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation. Jeffrey Gibson (Native American, Mississippl Band of Choctaw Indlans and Cherokee (b. 1972)) Mx Oops and Xavier (The Anthropophagic Effect), edition 1/3, 2019 digital print 30 1/4 x 44 7/8 in. Collection of the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation. Image: Aaron Wessling Photography, Courtesy of Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation.

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

ArtsKSU, Artist, and Collector Brought Together for One Night for Interchange Performance By Kathie Beckett

The performance at Zuckerman Museum featured all four artistic disciplines of the Geer College of the Arts

magine if arts patrons were able to ask performers in dance, music, theatre, and the visual arts to all perform at the same time. Now imagine having those artists perform right next to the audience, in an intimate, beautiful venue, close to home, and all for free. Finally, imagine hearing a 2024 Venice Biennale artist talk about his unique work, and then listening in as he chats with his well-known collector. If that sounded interesting, you would not have wanted to miss “Interchange,” an annual collaboration featuring faculty and alumni from all four disciplines of Kennesaw State University’s Geer College of the Arts (ArtsKSU). Slated for Oct. 17 at 7 p.m., “Interchange” was presented

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by the Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art, a unit of the School of Art and Design. This unique, free presentation of live, intimate performances celebrated the creativity that all artistic disciplines shared with one another. This year’s program featured ArtsKSU faculty and a recently graduated student performing in response to the artworks in the exhibition “Jeffrey Gibson: They Teach Love From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation.” The exhibition, which ran until Dec. 7, included 35 captivating objects spanning 15 years of Jeffrey Gibson’s prolific career. As a citizen of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and of Cherokee heritage, his work is deeply rooted in his identity and experiences.

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This unique, free presentation of live, intimate performances celebrates the creativity that all artistic disciplines share with one another.

The works showcased in the Zuckerman Museum of Art (ZMA) exhibition delve into his exploration of radical transformation, both in objects and people, as he takes viewers on a journey through printmaking, photography, painting, sculpture, and contemporary adornment in fashion. The display also includes recent works exploring performance, installation, and video, revealing the artist's foray into new expressive forms. A highlight of the exhibition is the centerpiece work, “To Name An Other,” an immersive installation consisting of 51 screen-printed elk hide drums and 50 wearable garments. Originally commissioned as a performance by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, the installation marked a pivotal moment: embracing collective-based, collaborative projects and performances and using them to engage audiences and communities.

The performers in “Interchange,” also a collaborative and collective-based project, found inspiration from the work, and then used their reaction(s) to the work in their own performances. Patrons saw a wide variety of work from the Department of Dance, the Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music, and the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies. After the performance, patrons had the opportunity to listen as Gibson spoke about his work, and later, chatted with the collector Jordan D. Schnitzer.  Images by Judith Pishnery.

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

Lighting the Way: A Journey in the Arts and Entertainment Industry By Brooke Marier

A Q&A with 40 Under 40 Owl and Department of Theatre and Performance Studies Alumnus, Ben Rawson

THE MOUNTAINTOP, The Alliance Theatre. Image courtesy of the artist.

Q: Can you tell us about your journey in theatre and lighting design? What inspired you to pursue this field? A: I have always liked working with my hands. In high school, I took a shop-style class that built scenery for the theater's productions. From there, I found lighting. It became the thing I could most see myself enjoying as a career. I was attracted to the technical craft, as well as the creative and storytelling aspects of designing. Q: How did your time at Kennesaw State University shape your career? Are there any particular experiences or mentors that stand out? A: I learned things like hand drafting and later computer drafting, design theory and history, and the hands-on craft and technician elements. Lighting Professor Rebecca Makus and Resident Lighting Designer for the Department of Dance David Tatu were mentors and teachers on campus.

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Experiencing internships and assistantships working with companies in town like The Alliance Theatre and Atlanta Opera and assisting designers like Robert Wierzel and Amith Chandrashaker were influences and mentors off campus and in my career. Q: What are some of the most memorable projects you've worked on? A: It's hard to narrow it down to only a few. Within the past year, productions that stand out are the recent production of "Rite of Spring" at Atlanta Ballet, as well as the Prisma Dance Festival in Panama City, Panama, and "The Mountaintop" at The Alliance Theatre. Q: Can you share a challenging moment in your career and how you overcame it? A: I feel one of the largest issues many people struggle with in their careers is maintaining a balance of work and life.

Especially in careers where you yourself are the business or product, having to schedule and maintain work as a freelancer, but not allowing yourself to be 'on' all the time. It's important to have boundaries and time at home, with family, and to recharge. You can push too hard and burn out. Q: How does it feel to be named a 40 Under 40 Owl? What does this recognition mean to you? A: It is, of course, always nice to receive recognition for your work. I am especially grateful to be one of the only, if not the only, recipients representing the Geer College of the Arts. It's important to show light and attention to careers in the arts and their validity, especially right now. Q: What do you believe are the key factors that contributed to your success? A: Growing and succeeding in the arts and entertainment industry always requires putting in work and dedication, as well as being prepared, and always, open and creative. Having good support and understanding partners and family is so important as well. My wife Maddie's constant support and understanding is a huge facilitator. Surround yourself with people who want to see you do well and are supportive, inside and outside of work.

Q: What are your future aspirations in the field of theatre and lighting design? A: I really just hope to continue expanding the network of artists and collaborators I get to work with, and creating new and exciting work with amazing people and companies that only becomes bigger and better. I have no be-all, end-all goal of being on Broadway specifically or designing for touring. Where my career and life take me is part of the journey and excitement without seeking any specific future too hard and being in the current moments. Q: Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about? A: It is again hard to choose only a few, but currently I have a fast-approaching production of "Das Rheingold" in Los Angeles at the Pacific Symphony Orchestra that I think will be dynamic. There is also a world premiere musical called "Young John Lewis" at Theatrical Outfit here in John Lewis's home of Atlanta about his early life, a music and dance event experience at Pioneer Works in Brooklyn with BalletCollective, and a production in Victoria, Canada, with the New York City-based dance company Boca Tuya.

Your work team, such as assistant designers, programmers, and design collaborators, creates an environment striving to do the best work possible together. This makes all the difference when working long hours and having to push your own creativity at times. Q: What advice would you give to current students or aspiring lighting designers? A: I would say yes to as many experiences as you can and learn from the many ways there are to do everything, but do not let yourself be taken advantage of, especially early in your career. Also, do not get too caught up in the modern technology and flexibility of the fast-changing design field. Make sure you understand some of the basic tools and craft. Being able to make strong decisions will allow you to better utilize and benefit from new technology. Left: The Mountain Top - The Alliance Theatre. Right: Ben Rawson. Images courtesy of Ben Rawson.

DEPARTMENT of DANCE

"Properties of Being" Dance Concert: A Night of Stunning Performances By Kathie Beckett

KSU Dance Company performed original choreography of KSU Dance faculty

ennesaw State University (KSU) Department of Dance was pleased to present “Properties of Being” from Nov. 14-16 at the KSU Dance Theater on the Marietta campus. The program included both classical and contemporary dance, highlighting the universal need to move, connect—and simply be—with others. Featuring five original works by KSU Dance faculty, some with choreographic input from students, the concert was performed by the KSU Dance Company. Chair and professor Marsha Barsky explained that this concert of unparalleled artistry and innovation—with its own unique language— defines the Department of Dance. “Dance may be thought of as a kind of language; it’s innate and distinctly human, and expresses thoughts, emotions, qualities, and characteristics. In this concert, we explored properties such as individuation, connection, ephemerality, temporality, resilience, persistence, and even transcendence.” Lecturer Billy Hawkains III used his work, “Another Version of Events” as a form of language. He says that his work “gives us a powerful voice to express, challenge, and reflect on the world around us. I hope that, after seeing ‘Properties of Being,’ that the audience felt dance’s transformative power.” Humans want to be seen, says associate professor McCree O’Kelley. “My work, ‘Wallflowers,’ explored the universal need to move and connect with others. Even if, at times, we are more comfortable sitting on the sidelines, the desire to be seen is still inside us.”

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Associate professor Andrea Knowlton wanted her dancers to be seen in “one of our most diverse shows ever, as every work is completely original.” She sought to create a closeness with her students—one filled with trust, vulnerability and massive risk taking— as she collaborated with the dancers in the choreography for “Lockstep.” It was important to her to create a “safe environment for my dancers in the rehearsal process that led to fearless exploration on stage. The full range of artistic research that took place at KSU Dance was on display at our beautiful theater. It was wonderful to celebrate our unique visions in this shared show.” Limited term assistant professor Shannon Alvis agreed with Knowlton on shared visions. To build a shared vision on “Constellation,” she wanted to get to know the dancers, even though they had just met each other when rehearsals began at the start of the semester. The result in “Constellation” was an “exploration of honoring the individual, and how each one of us contributed to the whole.” Working on this, she explained, required looking, listening, trusting and patience, not only from herself, but also from the dancers. “Offering each other this space in the process allowed for quiet detail and honest connection. I hoped the audience would have the same opportunity for quiet contemplation.” The audience may have gazed quietly and reflectively at the stars during “Constellation,” but they wanted to tap along with the dancers in part-time instructor Tammy Everhart’s lively and athletic Tap piece, “Level Up.”

She explained that it was important to continue the legacy of Tap dance, as “it preserves and honors a powerful art form rooted in African American history, resilience, and cultural expression. To my knowledge, this was the first concert Tap piece to be presented on stage at KSU, and we are grateful to KSU Dance for recognizing Tap’s value and importance.” Students in the Department of Dance may take advantage of numerous opportunities to explore and perform new works and ideas. “Studying dance is like learning a new language…to witness this process is to partake in a powerful and universal artform that goes beyond the spoken word,” adds Barsky. 

Image courtesy of KSU Dance Company.

GEER COLLEGE of the ARTS

A Journey of Passion and Philanthropy: From Travel to Scholarships By Brooke Marier

How Don Vellek's passion for travel and the arts transformed into a lifelong commitment to education and philanthropy

on Vellek's life is a testament to the transformative power of travel, the arts, and philanthropy. His journey began at a young age, driven by a passion for exploration and cultural immersion. Growing up in southeastern Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia, Vellek's love for the arts was ignited at age 12. Frequent trips to New York allowed him to experience the vibrant theater scene, starting with the Broadway musical Gypsy. "I went, 'Oh my goodness, that's really neat,'" he recalled. This early exposure fueled a lifelong dedication to the arts, influencing his travel choices and enriching his life. At 18 years old, fresh out of junior college in 1966, Vellek was drafted into the Army during the height of the Vietnam War. Like most 18-year-olds, he had never ventured far from home. Suddenly, he found himself in Asia, experiencing the region in a way he never would have otherwise. "My world got bigger, my horizon got bigger," he said. This experience laid the foundation for his advocacy for study abroad programs, underscoring the importance of experiencing different cultures and perspectives. Shortly after returning from the war, Vellek met his late partner of 53 years, and the love of his life, Manny Beauregard. Together, they shared a passion for travel and the arts. Wherever they traveled, their love for the arts went with them. "We always sought out the arts wherever we were. Be it music, dance, theater, or visual arts. We always tried to learn about other people's excitement and customs," Vellek explained. Manny Beauregard (L) and Don Vellek (R). Image courtesy of Don Vellek.

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Their bond led to the opening of a travel agency in Buckhead, a dream come true that allowed them to share their love for travel with others. Concurrently, Vellek had a 30year career with AT&T in global marketing, which further broadened his perspective. After retiring from AT&T in 1998, Vellek dedicated himself full-time to the travel agency until 2022. This dual career brought the world to him, dovetailing perfectly with his travel business. Vellek and Beauregard’s friendship with Kennesaw State University’s (KSU) Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Dance, Ivan Pulinkala, was instrumental in shaping his philanthropic efforts. After Beauregard passed, Pulinkala's guidance helped Vellek decide how to give back in the most impactful and meaningful ways he could. Vellek's passion for the arts and education led him to begin donating to KSU, focusing on areas that resonated deeply with his experiences and interests.

Given his love for theater, Vellek established the Manny Beauregard & Don Vellek Endowed Scholarship for Theatre and Performance Studies in 2022. Inspired by his love for music and attending KSU football games, he created the Beauregard-Vellek Endowed Scholarship for the Marching Owls in 2023. His passion for dance and travel culminated in the Beauregard-Vellek Dance Study Abroad Scholarship in 2024. Sheb True, vice provost of KSU, gave a detailed explanation of the study abroad program's breadth, which convinced Vellek of its value, mirroring the transformative experiences he had during his own travels. Meeting scholarship recipients has been incredibly rewarding for Vellek. Their gratitude and stories of how the scholarships made a difference in their lives are heartwarming. "In some cases, it was the difference between staying at KSU and dropping out," he said. Vellek's philanthropy has always focused on the students, providing opportunities that might not have been available otherwise.

The scholarships live on in perpetuity, ensuring future generations benefit from the same opportunities. People often commend Vellek's efforts, and he always says he's just sharing the good fortunes he has received. "Meeting my partner, having a fulfilling corporate career, and running a successful travel agency have all been blessings," he explained. Sharing these gifts through philanthropy brings immense emotional and psychological rewards. "You don't have to be a billionaire to make a difference; even small contributions can be meaningful," he said. Vellek feels fortunate to know many of the people who are shaping KSU today. Their vision and dedication inspire him to continue supporting the university and its students. His story serves as a powerful reminder of how one person's passion and generosity can create lasting change and inspire others to make a difference in their own ways. 

Image by Judith Pishnery.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

KSU Alumnus Rian Penrod Thrives at Marvel Studios By Brooke Marier & Abram Miller

Penrod's Artistic Path from Kennesaw State University to Emmy-Nominated Projects

ian Penrod, an alumnus of Kennesaw State University’s School of Art and Design (SOAAD), has achieved significant success in Atlanta’s vibrant creative scene. Now working for Marvel Studios, Penrod has transformed his talents into a thriving career, exemplifying the creative spirit that SOAAD instills in its students. While studying as an undergraduate at KSU, Penrod’s artistry was full of potential, waiting for the creative spark to ignite his journey.

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“I knew I wanted to pursue an artistic career, but I wasn’t sure where exactly,” Penrod said. “While deciding on a field, I focused on fundamental classes.” Through these classes, he discovered environmental art, a field that perfectly combined his interests in film, painting, and comics. He credits professors Sandee Bradford and Joseph Remillard for guiding him toward this discovery. He elaborates, “Remillard fostered my love for backgrounds and attention to detail.

Sandee helped prepare me for the animation field and showed me how many job titles there were within animation alone.” Now, as a KSU alumnus, Penrod has established a career in environmental art. After graduating from KSU, Penrod began his career as a background artist at Ben Box Entertainment in Atlanta, working on projects for Netflix and Apple TV+. In 2021, he joined Marvel Animation, where he continues to work today. “The team is incredible, and it's super inspiring to see their work every day,” Penrod said about his experience at Marvel. As an artist for one of the world’s leading storytelling organizations, Penrod has contributed to numerous distinguished projects at Marvel Studios. His background painting in "X-Men ‘97," particularly the episode "Remember It," was nominated for an Emmy in 2024 for Best Animated Program of the Year—one of only three Emmy nominations Marvel received that year.

Penrod’s talents and dedication have propelled him from his beginnings at KSU to a prominent position in the entertainment industry, where he continues to hone his skills. He is excited for audiences to see what he and his team at Marvel Studios are currently working on. For aspiring artists, Penrod advises, “Be open to trying a lot of things until you find something that works for you. Focus on really learning the fundamentals because no matter what industry you end up in, they will be useful.”  Top: Image courtesy of Rian Penrod. Bottom: Image courtesy of Marvel Studios.

Penrod has also worked on background art for shows such as "Wolf Boy and the Everything Factory," "Hoops," "Paradise PD," "Central Park," and the "Utopia" episode titled "Respect Your Purpose."

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

A Festive Celebration: The 2024 Holiday Concert By Kathie Beckett

he Bailey School of Music showcased its annual Holiday Concert this past December, featuring nearly 280 students from the choirs, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Jazz Ensemble I. The concert delighted and surprised patrons with a diverse array of holiday music, ranging from Duke Ellington and Tchaikovsky to Brazilian folk songs and African American spirituals. This year marked the first inclusion of KSU's Jazz Ensemble I, adding a fresh and exciting dimension to the festive performances. The Wind Ensemble began the family-friendly concert with Kenny Bierschenk’s “A Festival Christmas.” Resplendent sounds of the season burst through in this familiar and joyful medley of holiday tunes, including “Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “The First Noel,” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” John Wasson’s “In the Christmas Mood” took holiday favorites and mixed them with the swing classic “In the Mood.” The result was the Wind Ensemble performing a medley giftwrapped for the audience, including “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty The Snowman,” and “Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree.” In 1960, jazz buffs might have found Duke Ellington’s record “The Nutcracker Suite” under the Christmas tree. The Jazz Ensemble I performed “The Nutcracker Suite – Overture” from the album featuring jazz interpretations of “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky, arranged by Ellington and Billy Strayhorn.

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Image by DV Photo Video (Anmarie Van Wetering)

The Chamber Singers performed the Brazilian folk song “A Nossa Lapinha.” This rousing arrangement was based on a celebration that ends Christmas and takes place on Three Kings Day. Participants wrote their hopes for the new year on slips of paper and put them into the Lapinha, a nativity scene. Made of dried leaves and incense, the Lapinha was then burned, in the belief that nativity items are holy and should not be reused. Some believed that not burning the items brought bad luck in the new year. Fast forward a few millennia to “Cool Yule” by the Jazz Ensemble I, which was a delight for the band to play and for the audience to hear. This jovial jaunt on television personality Steve Allen’s tribute to the holiday season, courtesy of Sherman Irby, bore a resemblance to the classic style of the Count Basie Orchestra. In a delightful way to end that year’s Holiday Concert, the combined choirs and Symphony Orchestra performed “A Musicological Journey Through the Twelve Days of Christmas” by Craig Courtney. It started with a chant, and each successive day found a different (and hilarious) parody. Incognito appearances by musical greats were expected, ending with a pseudo-Sousa “Stars and Stripes Forever.” 

Image by DV Photo Video (Anmarie Van Wetering).

Image by Brooke Marier

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

Taking a ‘Cue from Realism TV: "Barbecue" By Kathie Beckett

Raucous, unpredictable comedy explores America’s obsession of self-destruction as entertainment

ennesaw State University’s Department of Theatre and Performance Studies (TPS) presented Robert O'Hara's “Barbecue” from Oct. 1-6 at the Onyx Theater. Hilarious and yet devastating, the play examined the themes of addiction, family dynamics, politics, and fame in a clever way. “Barbecue” centers around the O’Mallerys, a dysfunctional group of siblings who come together to stage an emergency intervention for their sister Barbara, whose drug habit has gotten out of hand. However, there are two O’Mallery families, one White and one Black. Each appear in different (yet similar) scenes that juxtapose to create a dialogue about race, family, politics, and the American obsession with realism television. Right: Nicole Clockel, Costume Sketches: Barbara - Act 1 & 2. Image courtesy of the artist.

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“We tend to crave watching people in their demise—shows like ‘Euphoria,’ or ‘Orange is the New Black,’ for example. These are popular shows that end up becoming American classics,” said director and guest artist Damian Lockhart, a TPS alumnus who works professionally in theatre, television, and film in Atlanta. The fully staged production, set in Lynchburg, Ohio, asks the audience to examine their own stereotypes and insecurities while watching the families go through their own turmoil of how to get their sisters to go to rehab.

Morgan believes there may be some humanity found at the core of all these things. “It’s so important to find common ground with each other, especially in our struggles. The scenes [in the play] are divided by race, but the two families have a lot in common in their struggles,” she said. “No one wants to feel terrible, so we laugh. We use humor to digest tough things, to get through the hard times. Sometimes, we laugh to keep from crying,” adds Lockhart.  Photography by Casey Ford.

The intervention is not done with a professional, but rather, is inspired by the TV show of the same name. “The play asks, ‘what is true, and what is not true?’ How often do we tell each other lies to keep face? There are some heavy themes, but it’s still hilarious,” said Lockhart. “It’s coated-on comedy sugar.” “A lot of theatre that addresses tough issues is heavy and hard to watch, but ‘Barbecue’ is easy to watch. Damian is great at directing comedy; he understands wit and comic timing as well as the sharpness that comedy needs,” said Amanda Wansa Morgan, TPS Artistic Director and Associate Professor. Lockhart added that O’Hara wants the actors “to showcase that we are all screwed up in some way. Everyone, in a sense, needs their own intervention. We all have something that we deal with—yet we still judge others” for their flaws. The playwright asks the audience to examine their own stereotypes and insecurities, even while intently— sometimes gleefully—watching the turmoil of the O’Mallery families. To unpack all these different things within the play, the TPS dramaturgical team, led by Assistant Professor of Theatre and Resident Dramaturg Dr. Thomas Fish, presented their research behind “Barbecue” to the ten actors. During rehearsal, representatives of KSU’s Center for Young Adult Addiction and Recovery shared information on addiction, intervention, and recovery. “At TPS, students are encouraged to be scholar artists, so the actors look at work from the inside out. They bring their own perspectives, but also have tough conversations with each other,” said Lockhart. He hopes it will help the actors understand what the audiences may experience.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

KSU Alumna Sculptor Creates Captivating Piece for Administration Suite By Darius Goodman

new owl has come to roost at Kennesaw State University. Its widely spread wings and extended talons grab the attention of visitors to the offices of President Kathy S. Schwaig and other top administrators.

“I did work for a few artists locally and considered working toward making art full-time, but when I saw the position open up at KSU I immediately knew I wanted to come back,” Pinkston said of her life after graduating.

The sculpture by Geer College of the Arts alumna Mary Beck Pinkston permanently joins paintings and other art pieces from the Zuckerman Museum of Art’s collection that decorate the space outside the president’s office.

With Kennesaw State’s mascot being the illustrious owl, Pinkston’s inspiration for the piece was tied to the bird, but she aimed for something unique.

“We proudly showcase KSU artists in Kennesaw Hall for all of our guests and visitors,” Schwaig said. “For our welcome area, I envisioned a bold showpiece, something undeniably KSU that would greet each guest with a powerful symbol of Owl Nation. And I knew it had to be created by a KSU artist. It is a stunning addition.” Geo Sipp, School of Art and Design director, said the project was commissioned by Schwaig through the Master Craftsman program. As a student Pinkston worked on two of the program’s commissions, a leaf bicycle rack in Smith-Gilbert Gardens and a memorial bench in Kennesaw. She was just the artist to tackle the president’s request, he said. “I am exceptionally proud of Mary Beck and the work she created for the fifth-floor suite at Kennesaw Hall,” Sipp said. “As a graduate of KSU’s Sculpture program, she fulfilled every expectation I had.” Pinkston, a 2021 graduate of KSU and now studio coordinator for the School of Art and Design, said it is an honor to know her art is on display in Kennesaw Hall, and she is happy to work at her alma mater.

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“We wanted to keep it simple, so we decided to use sheet metal and created the owl using negative space. We ended up rolling out the wings and gave the talons some hook to make it more of a statement piece,” Pinkston said. The sculpture is made from pliable mild steel that’s been plasma cut and then finished with a Japanese brown patina achieved through oxidation that accentuates the details in the work. In looking at the sculpture, one person might see a powerful owl looking out toward Kennesaw Mountain, while another might perceive it as an owl coming to land at the home of the KSU Owls. Everyone will view the piece differently, and that’s what Pinkston wants people to do. “When people view art, they’re going to perceive it in their own way,” she said. “They're going to see what they need in that moment.”  Image by Darnell Wilburn.

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We wanted to keep it simple, so we decided to use sheet metal and created the owl using negative space.

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- Mary Beck Pinkston

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES KSU Student Aims to Uncover Work of Caribbean Playwrights By Alyssa Ozment

bony Golden is a theatre and performance studies major at Kennesaw State University whose project, “Jouvay Women: Rejuvenating Classical Theatre in the Caribbean,” was part of the Summer Undergraduate Research Program. For her project, Golden worked specifically with “Carnival Medea,” written and directed by Shirlene Holmes, which is a retelling of the classic play, Medea by Euripides. This new adaptation is set in Trinidad rather than the original Greece and follows various carnival characters through the story of a woman who in response to being wronged by her husband kills her children so that he knows the pain of loss. “This version of Medea is a unique adaptation that infuses the traditions and characters of Carnival and the beautiful of spirit of Trinidad,” Golden said. Golden used the emancipation strategies of the Jouvay Popular Theatre Process (JPTP) developed by Tony Hall to expose the means of resistance in Carnival Medea. JPTP is a workshop that utilizes the characters of Trinidad carnival like the baby doll character. “With my primary investigator, Dr. Tom Fish, we conducted interviews with the playwright and director herself, Shirlene Holmes and the production manager Chi Ife,” Golden said. Holmes died in 2023 and Hall died in 2016, and part of Golden’s goal is to honor their legacies by continuing their work. 

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Image courtesy of Summer with SURP.

BAILEY SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Passion for Opera Fuels Student’s Research By Darius Goodman

New creation focuses on the entire body and lets its voice emerge to express current concerns

olstered by an impactful undergraduate experience, Geer College of the Arts alumnus-to-be Simon Kawasaki has earned a full scholarship to attend Duke University’s Ph.D. in Musicology program, where he will be on track to earn his master’s and doctoral degrees. Kawasaki, who has an interest in Italian opera, said he felt well-prepared for graduate studies as a result of his time at Kennesaw State University. He relished opportunities to pursue exciting projects, including his Summer Undergraduate Research Program project, L'Amore Infranto: The Sustainability of Opera in American Society Past 2024, which he believes helped his graduate application. The project set out to deliver solutions to dwindling opera crowds in the U.S.

“There’s still a lot to uncover in this area,” he said. “I hope my work will shed new light on the connections between music and history." Kawasaki credited his KSU mentors for pushing him to apply for research opportunities and present his findings at academic conferences. Equipped with a robust research experience, Kawasaki now urges undergraduates to engage with faculty and pursue their research passions. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, he said. “Apply for research opportunities, present at conferences, and build strong relationships with your professors. Your mentors will be your biggest advocates when it comes to applications and recommendation letters. Most importantly, believe in yourself” 

"I always knew I wanted to do something in music, but I wasn’t exactly sure what. Voice is my main instrument, but I was anticipating having piano as my main instrument before I came to KSU,” said Kawasaki, who graduates in May with a bachelor’s degree in music. “During my undergraduate years, I became fascinated by the history and theory behind the music— why composers made certain choices, how their music was shaped by cultural and political forces, and I’m excited to continue on this journey of discovery in graduate school.” At Duke, Kawasaki plans to explore how composers have embedded political messages in their works throughout history and how the audiences of those times interpreted it. Image by Darnell Wilburn.

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

There’s Magic to Do with "Pippin" By Kathie Beckett

Patrons Experienced the Magical, Musical Journey of Self-Discovery

Images by Casey Ford.

ennesaw State University’s Department of Theatre and Performance Studies (TPS) was proud to present their production of the Tony Award-winning musical “Pippin,” which ran from Nov. 7-17 at the Stillwell Theater.

troupe, “Pippin” invites audiences on a fantastical journey filled with dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs by Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Godspell”), and a captivating exploration of ambition, identity, and meaning in the magic of growth.

The Magic of Growth This vibrant production brought to life the timeless story of Pippin, a young prince in search of purpose and fulfillment. Set against the backdrop of a traveling performance

Chuck Meacham, Chair of TPS, believed this production would deliver a fresh take on the beloved musical while staying true to its core themes. “This is a show about growth, about exploration,” he explained.

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“It’s about finding your way in a world full of illusions and distractions. It speaks to audiences of all ages, especially to our students who are themselves navigating the transition to adulthood.” The Magic of Talent TPS faculty Timothy Ellis directed the production, which he counted as one of his all-time favorite musicals. (He played the lead role at Pebblebrook High School in Mableton, Ga., 40 years ago!) He said it had been a joy to direct the student cast of 30, representing some of Kennesaw State’s most talented performers bringing their high energy to the fully-staged production. There were some surprises in store, from a historical nod to the dynasty of Charlemagne to a glimpse of the timeless tale of “Game of Thrones.” Audiences were mesmerized by the dynamic set designs, colorful costumes, and engaging choreography by guest choreographer Kari Twyman. The choreography was a nod to the original Bob Fosse production from 1972.

The Magic of Choice The musical remains relatable today because it’s the journey of a young person into adulthood. Ellis explained, “Our students can connect because Pippin is journeying into his adulthood with innumerable questions about the future. I honed in on the voices that we seek to hear from—the voices that they think know better—that may either encourage you or steer you the wrong way.” In essence, it was choosing between reality and nonreality, between the true and the magical. Ellis emphasized that dilemma by presenting the title player role with two actors. The Magic of Recognition He explained that the two actors were the “narrators, but also the voices urging us—and sometimes tricking us—à la the angel and devil voices particularly represented in American cartoons and in early religious teachings of many faiths. The two actors weren't individually assigned the angel or devil. They might just switch that assignment throughout. In modernday thought, they might also represent social media or the news media. What is Pippin to believe? Which path should he follow? It’s the magic of recognition.” Older audience members may have recognized America in the 1970’s, with its hippies, cults, and unique music. The Magic of Music The songs and dances in the show echo the style of that period, utilizing the magic of music to transcend time and examine hard questions. Ellis asked a question that would be relatable in the 1970s: are we beguiled by cult-like thought and practice? What defines a cult, and could it be represented by government, religion, social media, biased news media, etc.? “Are we enticed by others who may divert us from a path we have already begun? Ultimately, we each must decide who we trust, what path we trust, and what voices are true to our heart,” he said. 

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

Master’s Degree Led Alumna to Career as Museum Collection Manager By Dave Shelles

alking through the exhibits at the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, it’s not uncommon for Christen Knickerbocker ’24 to see something that catches her eye. Sometimes she pauses to admire the museum’s iconic dinosaur skeleton, while other days she notes one of the precious gemstones in its expansive collection. Though the recent Kennesaw State University master’s graduate works as collection manager at Tellus – cataloguing acquisitions and staying behind the scenes – she does occasionally walk the floor to admire the Curatorial Department’s work. “I’ve been to a lot of museums in my life, and I always wondered about working at one,” she said. “Tellus has part of my heart because it’s so varied in what is displayed here.” Knickerbocker started her journey as a child, growing up in Washington, D.C., visiting the Smithsonian museums often. She stayed connected to museums as a patron in Pittsburgh, where she lived previously. In 2014, she and her family moved to the Atlanta area in search of a warmer climate. The mother of four has a bachelor’s degree and previous work experience and volunteered in various community groups but after she saw a Facebook advertisement for KSU’s Master of Arts in Art and Design program, she considered the prospect of a full-time job at a museum. “It’s a one-year program completely online, which worked great for me,” she said. “I saw the ad one evening, started the application, and requested my undergraduate transcript that same day. In the morning, I told my husband I was going back to school.”

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Once enrolled, Knickerbocker chose the program’s museum studies concentration. The coursework gave her a robust understanding of issues impacting museums as well as the practice of electronic cataloguing. Additionally, she took art courses that gave her a different perspective on the items museums choose to display. Students in the program complete a capstone project as well as volunteer for organizations across the region. Knickerbocker had 700 volunteer hours by the time she finished her master’s degree.

Images courtesy of Judith Pishnery.

She helped design a feature wall for an ongoing exhibit, “Patents and the Future,” which highlights the way patents have fueled innovation in America. Shortly thereafter, Tellus offered her the newly created position of collections manager. “It had been in the works for a while, and when I was volunteering, they would ask me questions like, if I were to hire on, whether I’d prefer to manage collections or build exhibits,” she said. “ As a volunteer I had done a lot of both. There is a need to have a full-time individual as collections manager so the curator can focus on caring for the collection and working with donors.” Knickerbocker oversees inventory, photography, and cataloging new objects that arrive. She also creates paperwork for deeds of gift, thankyou letters, incoming loans, and outgoing loan renewals. She works with a curator in creating and updating paperwork for quarterly collections committee meetings. After nine months on the job, Knickerbocker said the novelty remains. She works in a brightly lit room with rows of shelves and drawers full of artifacts. However, she enjoys the occasional walk through the museum to see the chattering groups of schoolchildren that take in the sights. “It’s a wonderful job,” she said. “I work with an experienced team and feel fulfillment in what we are accomplishing.” .

Images by Judith Pishnery.

DEPARTMENT of DANCE

Two World Premieres in "Double Exposure" By Kathie Beckett

Works by choreographers Christian Denice, Tristian Griffin performed by KSU Dance Company

ennesaw State University’s Department of Dance had an eventful July, thanks to the Eleo Pomare–Glen Conner Choreographic Residency program. The unique program invites two nationally-emerging or midcareer choreographers to the Department of Dance each summer for a four-week residency to create two world premieres with the KSU Dance Company. Christian Denice and Tristian Griffin were selected as this year’s recipients from a pool of national and international talent, with an emphasis on innovation and movement invention.

“My cast took risks and fully investigated inside the process. They stayed so committed to the process and to discovering depths about themselves. Watching their individual and collective growth was my favorite part of the Residency,” says Denice. Griffin’s work is entitled “Grow Today, Bloom Tomorrow.” It is “a tribute to the sacrifices and achievements of my community, ancestors, and family. It was further enriched by the powerful stories shared by the dancers, which served as a profound source of inspiration,” adds Griffin.

It's a win for both the students and the choreographers. “Through this Residency, contemporary artists collaborated with our student dancers, and our students forged meaningful connections with professionals in the field,” said Marsha Barsky, Chair and Professor of Dance. Christian Denice and Tristian Griffin auditioned and selected dancers, and then each artist created an original choreographic 30-minute group work, resulting in two fully-produced pieces, presented as “Double Exposure.” This year’s performance opened the 2024-2025 season for the Department of Dance.

Barsky is thrilled with the immersive Residency, which will have it's fifth year at KSU in the upcoming 2025-2026 season. She said, “Dance is an evolving artform that draws inspiration from new ideas and approaches. Guest artists complement the work of our own dance faculty, providing cutting-edge training and fresh perspectives.”

In Denice’s “Arena,” he encouraged the dancers to remember when they had experienced conflict within themselves, and to bring that dissonance to the work. The first act exploreed the literal fight—drawing inspiration from wrestling matches—and the second act exploreed how humans feel when we are at war with ourselves. The choreographer was impressed with the student dancers and their ability to take risks and bring his vision to life.

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The Choreographic Residency and performances are made possible thanks to the Pomare/Connor Memorial Endowment Fund for Dance at KSU. 

In Denice’s Arena, he encouraged the dancers to remember when they had experienced conflict within themselves, and to bring that to the work.

Griffin’s work, Grow Today, Bloom Tomorrow, is a tribute to the sacrifices and achievements of his community, ancestors, and family.

Choreographers Christian Denice (L) and Tristian Griffin (R). Images by Matthew Yung.

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

Dr. Laurence Sherr Retires After 30 Years at KSU's Bailey School of Music By Brooke Marier & Abram Miller

Renowned for his Holocaust remembrance music, Sherr leaves a legacy of mentorship and international acclaim.

r. Laurence Sherr, a distinguished faculty member at Kennesaw State University's Bailey School of Music (BSOM), has announced his retirement after three decades of mentoring young composers. Much of Sherr's work has centered on the Holocaust, earning him international acclaim for his education in this field. His 30-year legacy at KSU has seen the growth of the university and its music program alongside his extraordinary musical career. Sherr began his tenure at KSU in the middle of the 1995-96 school year, initially teaching music appreciation, music theory, and history courses. He developed and taught a world music course to help with accreditation and introduced music technology classes.

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By the fall of 1997, he became a full-time professor. Reflecting on his early days, Sherr noted, "The student body was around 12,000 when I arrived, and now we are nearly four times that. Tremendous development has occurred since then." Throughout his career, Sherr has received numerous accolades, including the University Distinguished Professor Award in 2018, the Madhuri and Jagdish N. Sheth Faculty Award for Distinguished International Achievement, multiple Global Engagement grants, and the University Distinguished Research and Creative Activity Award. He is the only BSOM faculty member to have received the University Distinguished Professor Award.

Sherr's work in Holocaust remembrance music began with a commission from the Carter Presidential Center in 1993, leading to the creation of Elegy and Vision, a piece for solo cello in memory of his youngest brother and his aunt Edith, who perished at Auschwitz. It was then that he had an epiphany: "If this piece is going to be performed at Holocaust remembrance concerts, then I should write pieces that are intentionally created for that purpose," Sherr explained. Thus began his work in composing remembrance music. His compositions aim to weave together music and historical information, offering a means of healing by conveying the profound pain and loss of that dark period while simultaneously instilling hope for the future. Additionally, his work fosters a deeper understanding of the experiences of oppressed, marginalized, and persecuted groups from the past and extends this empathy to those facing similar challenges today. Sherr's compositions have been performed on five continents and featured in album releases in Europe and the U.S. His album Fugitive Footsteps: Remembrance Music, released in 2023, won a gold medal in the Global Music Award competition. When asked if he had achieved his goals as a composer, Sherr replied, “I surpassed my initial expectations regarding the international reach of my work, but there’s much more to do now.”

His work as a composer, researcher, lecturer, author, and pedagogue has given him a unique international profile, combining concerts, in-concert lectures, and teaching. In addition to his compositional work, Sherr has been instrumental in developing and designing the composition degree and classes for the BSOM. He has also hosted new music concerts and worked with living composers, modeling collaboration with colleagues and performers. "My advice to young and upcoming composers at KSU would be to work hard, pursue collaboration so that you can learn from performers, and keep in contact with those people who you collaborate with; networking is crucial to opportunities in the future," Sherr advised. Kennesaw State University, the Robert S. Geer College of the Arts, and the Bailey School of Music thank Laurence Sherr for his unwavering support of our students and extraordinary contributions to the university. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors. Left: Dr. Laurence Sherr. Below: Dr. Laurence Sherr pictured with KSU President Kathy Schwaig. Images by Lauren Liz Photography (L) and Matthew Yung (below).

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

"Macbeth" takes over at Kennesaw State By Kathie Beckett

Fresh take on timeless piece still seems relevant in a complicated world

hat happens when people with power go unchecked, especially when that power is driven by desires and emotions? Is morality lost? What are the repercussions of tyranny? Kennesaw State University’s Department of Theatre and Performance Studies (TPS) examined those questions as they presented “Macbeth” running Feb. 13-23 at the Stillwell Theater. TPS Faculty and Director Marlon Andrew Burnley says that the play “explores the destructive power of ambition, the fragility of the human soul, and the consequences of choices made in pursuit of power.” A Brief Overview General Macbeth receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he will become king. Consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, Macbeth murders King Duncan and takes the throne for himself. He is then wracked with guilt and paranoia. Forced to commit more and more murders to protect himself

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from enmity and suspicion, he soon becomes a tyrannical ruler. The bloodbath and consequent civil war swiftly take Macbeth and Lady Macbeth into the realms of madness and death. A Fresh Take Burnley believes that Shakespeare’s plays remain vital because they speak to timeless aspects of the human condition. Burnley utilized his extensive Shakespearean background to develop a fresh take on KSU’s production as he placed the players in a reimagined world in Seneca Village, a thriving Black community in 19th century Manhattan that was destroyed to make room for Central Park. He explains that they were “not only reflecting on what was lost, but also envisioning a society that could have been… In ‘Macbeth,’ we see the consequences of ambition, guilt, and power, themes that resonate deeply within this reimagined context.” Audience Resonance TPS faculty and Artistic Director Amanda Wansa Morgan added that “Marlon did a beautiful job of setting the show in a world that connected the students and audience to the material."

Madness Manifested Musically The turmoil felt from Macbeth and Lady Macbeth is intensified by original music composed by Okorie “OkCello” Johnson. Burnley explained that the Atlanta cellist bases his music off Afrofuturism. It’s a perfect partnership since Lady Macbeth and Macbeth both play violin, and they play on top of Johnson’s cello music. “Together, these instruments heighten the suspense and horror side of the play; it is madness manifested musically! Hearing the music and seeing the production at the same time is really beautiful,” says Burnley. A Strong Ensemble Scenic designer and TPS faculty Ming Chen (read more about Chen on pages 50-51) worked with student assistant Lauren Brice to cultivate the set design of the futurism, the “what if.”

Guest artist John Merritt designed the costumes, and students Alix Tejedor and Ameer Hashem designed sound and light, respectively. Student Macy Cardwell had a dual role: she performed in the show and lead the student dramaturgy team, including the educational materials in the lobby and online. “It was a well-rounded team of guest artists, faculty, and students,” said Morgan. “We built a very strong ensemble; the students were amazing, taking this wild idea and running with it,” added Burnley. Double, Double Toil and Trouble Burnley hoped the production would resonate with the audience, sparking “deep reflection on the nature of ambition, guilt, and the power of choice.” But it is also a lot of fun, especially for those who like magic, witches, and action… because, as Morgan put it: “It is theatre magic, and there will be blood! There will be fights!”  Images by Casey Ford.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

Kennesaw State University Professor Uses Experience to Inspire Art Students By Dave Shelles

graphic artist for decades, Joseph Karg has used his talents for everything from drawing superheroes for Marvel Comics to illustrating tour posters for musical acts. In a slightly different direction, he’s also lent these skills to tell an impactful story of an opioid overdose. Recently, the Kennesaw State University assistant professor of illustration and sequential art helped an Emory University researcher illustrate the occurrence of opioidrelated overdoses in Atlanta’s Little Five Points neighborhood. He uses the project as a lesson for his students in the Geer College of the Arts to demonstrate the power of graphic illustrations and storytelling. “I talk to my students a lot about the many career paths in this field,” he said. “One of my lessons is specifically about doing illustrations

alongside scientists, and I even had a student this semester work with a geologist from Emory to help illustrate local wildlife on the Georgia coastline.” Long a part of Atlanta’s artistic community, Karg cut his teeth on commissioned tour posters for comedians and bands and has done background painting for many celebrated TV shows. He worked for a year on an FX’s “Unsupervised,” and after earning his Master of Fine Arts from the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2011, he contributed on the Atlanta-produced hit show “Archer.” But the ebb-and-flow life of a television series wore on him. While illustrating for “Archer” was a dream come true, he realized he wanted more out of the life of an artist.

Images by Matthew Young.

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“When I left that job, I wasn't sure what was going to come next,” Karg said. “But I knew then that it mattered to me that I was working on projects that were more meaningful.” He spent the next six years teaching at the Art Institute of Atlanta while freelancing as an artist. In 2021, he applied to an opening at Kennesaw State and joined the faculty that fall. That year, another Atlanta artist referred him to Sarah Febres-Cordero, an Emory assistant professor of nursing whose research focuses on opioid harm reduction. In collaboration with Febres-Cordero, he illustrated a story told by participants in a survey of service-industry employees in Little Five Points about saving the life of a man who overdosed.

On top of his teaching duties in the School of Art and Design, Karg also supervises undergraduate research projects in comics and sequential art, and in illustration. The teaching aspect has improved his drawing, he said, thanks to the feedback he gets from his students. “Teaching makes me a significantly stronger illustrator,” he said. “On a semester-to-semester basis, I see significant growth in myself. I would also say that teaching makes you a better teacher. Doing anything, you get better at it.” 

“When I first met Sarah, she told me about the project, and how the point of it is to destigmatize drug use and to help humanize these people who struggle with addiction, who are ostracized from their families, and who are considered in a lot of ways less than human by the public,” Karg said. “I thought that was such a great thing to be involved with, and it felt great making that work too.” “Staying Alive in Little Five” appeared as part of an art exhibit at Emory’s Science Gallery called “Hooked: When Want Becomes Need” and distributed as part of a comic book from the project. Febres-Cordero published a paper about the project in the Journal of Health Promotion Practice, and the duo recently applied for a Guggenheim Fellowship in the hope of expanding “Staying Alive” into a book for wider distribution. “Seeing the data transformed into art to tell the stories of the participants was an exciting process for me and for the study participants,” FebresCordero said. “It was a way to give back to the community that gave us so much by sharing their stories. Joe's talent for creating art, his collaborative spirit, and his technical skills brought our work to life.” Karg leveraged his experience with FebresCordero into a second science-related illustration project with a different Emory professor, a comic that traces the path food takes from farm to table to better illustrate the journey to consumers. In June, he will travel to England to present a paper pertaining to using graphic illustrations to get people interested in historic preservation.

DEPARTMENT of DANCE KSU Dance Majors Presented Compelling Performances at Annual Student Dance Concert By Brooke Marier & Abram Miller

Department of Dance created an evening of contemporary choreography performed by KSU Dance students

he Department of Dance at Kennesaw State University proudly presented its annual Student Dance Concert, which ran April 24–26 at the KSU Dance Theater on the Marietta campus. This fully produced concert featured original choreographic works by eight KSU Dance majors, offering audiences a compelling and diverse evening of contemporary dance. The concert showcased six senior capstone projects, alongside two additional works originally created for the American College Dance Association Southeast Conference, held at the College of Charleston in March 2025. Each piece had been developed under close faculty mentorship and represented the culmination of the students' artistic and academic training.

This year’s program brought together a wide range of choreographic voices and themes. Jazmyn Wright invited audiences to consider the emotional depth of one’s final dance in her poignant group work Dance Like It’s the Last Time. Amie Wyatt’s Intertwined explored unseen connections between people through fluid, interwoven movement. Haley Fink, a double-major in dance and nursing, presented Cycle of Eternity, a contemporary ballet that ebbed and flowed with technical virtuosity. Demeyah Foster’s Layers of Self used clothing as a metaphor for life’s stages in a work that was both distinctive and dynamic. George Chavez’s El Roi was a poetic tribute to the overlooked, drawing on the Hebrew name meaning “God who sees me.” Maya Dubuc’s Overflow was a theatrical, surrealist study of a sponge’s lifecycle, brimming with imagination. Sydnee Patton’s Smoke and Mirrors delved into the tension between public persona and private identity. Finally, Molly Pollock and Evan Hamilton’s Sirocco channeled the force of North African winds in a sweeping and evocative group piece. The Student Dance Concert Student Dance Concert was the only concert of the year entirely choreographed by students and served as a dynamic platform for emerging dance artists to share their creative voices. 

Image by Lauren Liz Photography.

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BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

Arianna String Quartet Delivers Masterful Performance at the Bailey School of Music By Kathie Beckett

Musical powerhouse performed diverse program of classical and modern repertoire

ennesaw State University’s Bailey School of Music (BSOM) welcomed the Arianna String Quartet (ASQ) on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, at the Dr. Bobbie Bailey & Family Performance Center. One of the highlights of the ArtsKSU Presents Series for 2024, the much-anticipated performance represented Kennesaw State’s commitment to bring the highest caliber of musical talent to the campus and to the community. Hailed for their “emotional commitment and mastery” by the Chicago Tribune, the ASQ has garnered international acclaim for their dynamic performances and innovative programming. Formed in 1992, the Quartet has performed to soldout audiences across the globe and has been featured on both National Public Radio and PBS.

Audience members heard works from composers such as Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and Bartók, along with contemporary pieces that reflect the quartet’s dedication to expanding the string quartet repertoire. Professor of Violin Helen Kim noted, “The Quartet brought a wealth of knowledge and real working world experiences to share with our students. This was such a valuable part of our students’ growth and shows their commitment to support education for the next generation.” The quartet currently serves as faculty artists at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where they are deeply involved in mentoring the next generation of musicians. 

The group, often referred to as one of America’s finest chamber ensembles, is known for their expressive interpretations of the classical repertoire as well as their commitment to modern works. They presented a diverse program that spanned the classical and modern repertoire, highlighting their technical precision and emotive power.

Image courtesy of the Arianna String Quartet.

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

Celebrating the Retirement of Ming Chen: A Legacy of Scenic Design By Brooke Marier

Honoring 34 Years of Artistic Excellence and Educational Impact

fter an illustrious career spanning 34 years at Kennesaw State University (KSU), Ming Chen, a distinguished professor of scenic design, is set to retire. Chen's journey in the world of scenic design is a testament to dedication, creativity, and the transformative power of the arts. Born in Shanghai, China, Chen has loved the arts since childhood. After high school, she studied drawing and painting at the Shanghai School of Fine and Applied Arts and worked in the needlepoint tapestry industry. Her passion for fine arts led her to the Shanghai Theatre Academy, where she was introduced to set and costume design, setting the stage for her career in theatrical design. Chen's journey eventually brought her to KSU, where she has made significant contributions over the past 34 years. Some of the most memorable shows she has worked on at KSU include "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," her first show at KSU, where she served as both set and costume designer, as well as "Incubus" and "Chakra," both dance productions. More recent accomplishments in set design include "Rent," "The SpongeBob Musical," and "Macbeth." Chen was awarded the University Distinguished Professor Award in 2023, the top honor presented during Kennesaw State’s annual Faculty Awards ceremony. For Chen, teaching scenic design has been incredibly fulfilling. “I feel rewarded when I see my students surprise themselves with what they are capable of doing in my classes,” Chen said. She intentionally frames class projects to be open-ended, maximizing each student's creativity and potential.

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In retirement, Chen plans to expand her knowledge of Vectorworks and update her book, “Essential Vectorworks Skills for Scenic and Production Designers: Drawing, Rendering, Modeling, Drafting, and Presenting,” and instructional videos. She is excited about having more time to pursue her hobbies, such as singing, drawing, painting, and playing the piano. “I would like to quote the phrase ‘a new day will begin’ from the song ‘Memory’ in the Broadway musical Cats to express my feelings about looking forward to my future,” she said. Chen advises incoming students to become well-rounded individuals with diverse skills, including the eye of a painter, the imagination of a poet, the mind of a philosopher, and the skill set of an architect. She emphasizes the importance of being team players, effective communicators, and leaders in production. Chen encourages taking a variety of art classes to develop the necessary skills for theatrical design. “The design classes and practical design opportunities we offer at TPS will provide students with the knowledge, methods, techniques, and processes of theatrical design,” she said. As Chen prepares to retire, her legacy at KSU will continue to inspire future generations of scenic designers. Her contributions to the field and her dedication to education have left an indelible mark on the university and the broader artistic community. Kennesaw State University, the Robert S. Geer College of the Arts, and the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies thank Chen for her steadfast support of our students and remarkable contributions to the university. We wish her the very best in her future endeavors. 

Above and below: Images courtesy of Ming Chen. Middle: Prof. Ming Chen receiving the Distinguished Professor Award in 2023, pictured with KSU President Kathy Schwaig. Image by Matthew Yung.

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

Over 250 Faculty and Students Performed in 2025 Collage Concert By Kathie Beckett

Designated as KSU’s 2025 President’s Concert, the Collage Concert honored Robert S. “Bob” Geer

ennesaw State University’s Bailey School of Music presented the 2025 Collage Concert on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. The Concert was held in Morgan Hall at the Dr. Bobbie Bailey & Family Performance Center on the Kennesaw campus. A season highlight, the Collage Concert is the signature showcase of the Bailey School of Music, featuring over 250 student and faculty performers in jazz, orchestra, choir, band, percussion, chamber groups, and more. The performance takes a rapid-fire approach, with musical selections moving quickly in succession, from one group to another without pauses for clapping, making for a rousing, nonstop evening of music. This year, it is also designated as KSU’s 2025 President’s Concert, as KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig joined patrons in celebrating the naming of the Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts. First announced Jan. 8, the naming of the Geer College of the Arts (GCA) is thanks to a transformational benefactor, Robert S. “Bob” Geer. Mr. Geer’s bequest, valued at over $10 million, and will positively impact all GCA students in lifechanging ways.

This year, the Collage Concert was also designated as KSU's 2025 President's Concert, as KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig helped patrons celebrate the naming of the Robert S. Geer Family College of the Arts.

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“The naming of a college is one of the highest and most distinguished honors bestowed by the University System of Georgia Board of Regents. What a fitting tribute to Mr. Geer and his legacy on the arts and arts education at Kennesaw State,” said Schwaig. “The Collage Concert will be a great celebration of Mr. Geer, the Bailey School of Music, and the arts at KSU.” Along with the official announcement, there was a special tribute honoring Mr. Geer, who passed away in 2024, just shy of his 100th birthday. The Concert Choirs and Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Leslie J. Blackwell, joined together to perform, "America the Beautiful," one of Mr. Geer's favorite pieces. Mr. Geer believed in–and encouraged–a lifelong love of learning, made possible by financially supporting the students in their endeavors. It is particularly fitting, then, that Mr. Geer was honored—and the new name celebrated—at the only BSOM concert designed specifically to raise funds to support student scholarships. 

Image by Matthew Yung.

Image by Lauren Liz Photography.

DEPARTMENT of DANCE

Pursuing Excellence: A Dancer's Academic and Artistic Ambitions By Brooke Marier

Meet the Talented Dance Major Shaping Her Future at Kennesaw State and the American Dance Festival

llison Behrend is about to embark on an exciting new chapter, having earned a scholarship to attend the American Dance Festival at Duke University. Enjoy reading the Q&A below to learn more about her journey, inspirations, and what she hopes to gain from this incredible experience. Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background in dance? A: At age 2, I was introduced to dance by following in my older sister's footsteps, which sparked something deep inside me. I started dancing recreationally and, at age 7, tried out for our studio's competition team and made it. I danced ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, modern, and hip-hop. I loved everything about dance; it became my devotion from an early age. My love for the stage overflowed into my love for theatre in high school, where I became the lead choreographer for Greenbrier High School's drama department. I choreographed and starred in many shows, including "The Little Mermaid" (Scuttle), "The Addams Family" (Grandma), and "Curtains" (Detective O'Farrell). In 2019 and 2021, I was nominated for a Shuler Hensley Award for outstanding choreography for my work in Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella" and "Carousel."

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The Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards offered many fantastic opportunities, including dancing for Kenneth Green. Choreography piqued my interest, so I applied to Kennesaw State and auditioned for their dance program to improve my choreographic abilities. Dance has always been a joyful creative outlet and an art form. Q: What inspired you to pursue dance as a major at KSU? A: I only applied to Kennesaw State because I knew their dance program was the best! Not only are KSU's facilities impressive, but the faculty are incredible. They are on your team, molding you into the performer, artist, and scholar they know you can be. They foster a space that encourages creative exploration while pushing for excellence. I wanted to grow as an artist, and I knew KSU would get me where I wanted to go. Q: How did you feel when you found out you received the scholarship? A: I was ecstatic! I cannot wait to spend my summer with the American Dance Festival. Q: What excites you most about attending the American Dance Festival at Duke University? A: I am excited about the opportunity to immerse myself in a vibrant, creative community of dancers and teachers. I look forward to learning from talented instructors and fellow dancers, as every class and interaction offers a unique perspective that can challenge and inspire me.

I’m eager to push myself outside of my comfort zone and explore new techniques and styles that will help me grow as an artist. Being surrounded by passionate individuals who are equally motivated to learn and create will undoubtedly fuel my creativity and drive. Q: What do you hope to gain from this summer program? A: I hope to expand my skills, deepen my understanding of dance, and leave this experience feeling more inspired and confident in my artistic journey. I hope to gain a network of new friends who support each other in their artistry. I also want to leave as a more technical and confident dancer than when I arrived.

Q: What advice would you give to other aspiring dancers and incoming students? A: I would tell future students to GO FOR IT! Audition for everything and anything. The friendships I have made within the Department of Dance have shaped me into a better dancer and person. You get out of it what you put into it, so go all in! Build great relationships with the faculty and students and make the department your home.  Images by Lauren Liz Photography.

Q: How do you think these experiences will shape your future in dance? A: This experience will serve as a transformative catalyst in my dance career. By collaborating with and learning from exceptional artists nationwide, I will refine my technique, ignite my creativity, and build confidence in my craft. Exposure to diverse styles and perspectives will enhance my performance and deepen my understanding of the artistry behind dance, laying a strong foundation for continued growth and success. Q: Can you share any specific goals you have for your time at these programs? A: I want to take risks at the American Dance Festival and grow in an array of techniques. I tend to stay comfortable in what I am already good at, rather than pushing myself into new styles. I want to grow and expand my artistic vocabulary. Q: What does it mean to you to be part of a program with such a prestigious history and reputation? A: It is an honor and privilege, and I could not be more grateful to have received this scholarship. Q: Who are your biggest influences in the dance program at KSU? A: Andrea Knowlton and Autumn Eckman are my biggest influences at KSU. Both professors have played a part in the dancer I am today and have pushed me to be the best version of myself, in and out of the classroom. Their talent, skill, and passion pour out of their teaching and into their students. To know them is to love them.

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

ROOMFUL OF TEETH Delivers Stunning Performance By Brooke Marier

Grammy Award-winning group reimagines the potential of the human voice

t was an unforgettable night of vocal magic! Roomful of Teeth, the Grammy Awardwinning vocal band renowned for reimagining the expressive potential of the human voice, performed on Friday, March 21 at 8:00 p.m. in Morgan Hall at the Dr. Bobbie Bailey and Family Performance Center on the Kennesaw campus. Described by the New York Times as “like a glee club, but cool in a really nerdy way,” Roomful of Teeth has captivated audiences worldwide with their innovative and adventurous music. Fresh off their Grammy Award win for Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance for their album Rough Magic, this ensemble continues to push the boundaries of vocal and choral music. Their impressive list of achievements includes a feature on NPR’s Tiny Desk concerts, showcasing their unique sound and dynamic performances. Dr. Julia Bullard, Assistant Director of the Bailey School of Music, expressed her excitement:

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“Roomful of Teeth is one of the top vocal groups in the country, if not the world – their performances are cutting-edge, exploring the many colors and styles that can be expressed in vocal music. Hosting these amazing artists on the KSU campus provided an inspiring educational experience for our students, and they dazzled our audience with their incredible artistry!” Founded in 2009 by Brad Wells, the band was incubated at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) in North Adams, Massachusetts, where members studied with some of the world’s top performers, teachers, and commissioned composers who were known for breaking molds. They learned that the boundaries of the human voice are never what they seem, that rules can be bent and broken, and perhaps they should be. 

Image courtesy of Roomful of Teeth.

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

Researcher Shines Spotlight on Women in Theater Leadership By Dave Shelles

Image by of Matthew Yung.

Amanda Wansa Morgan wrote the book on women in theater. Literally.

he result of a yearslong effort, the Kennesaw State University associate professor of theatre and performance studies saw her vision come to fruition in the form of a book titled “Conversations with Women in Musical Theatre Leadership,” a compilation of 15 interviews with women leaders at the Broadway level. She originally drew inspiration for the project while serving as a music assistant for a production at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre. Morgan recalled being struck by conversations she shared with two women she grew to admire. “As I got to know about their journeys, I kept thinking, ‘Wow, I wish I’d known that when I was younger,’” she said. “It was then I realized I should compile their thoughts in a book.”

“I interviewed women specifically because of my identity and some of the challenges I've faced in leadership for being the only woman in the room and having to feel different things in different ways,” she said. Morgan notes, however, that progress has been made to support women in the performing arts. More women write, direct and produce stage productions, and the standards for women both on and off the stage have improved, too. Morgan said she and her peers are committed to continuing this upward trajectory. “There's been a lot of progress in how women are treated in the industry, not only based on beauty standards and expectations of storytelling for women and women's bodies, but also women and leadership,” she said. “And it’s only going to get better.” 

In addition to her time as a professor, Morgan has also worked consistently in the theater as a musical director, an actor, a composer and as a director—on both sides of the table, in theater parlance. In conducting the interviews, Morgan said she realized she was not alone in her experiences since entering the world of professional theater in 2009.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

Celebrate Creativity at Kennesaw State University's Annual Spring Arts Festival By Brooke Marier

A family-friendly day of art, activities, and fun at the Chastain Pointe Studios

ennesaw State University’s School of Art and Design hosted its annual, family-friendly Spring Arts Festival on Saturday, March 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Chastain Pointe Studios on the Kennesaw campus. Assistant Director of the KSU School of Art and Design Craig Brasco said, “We were excited to once again host the Spring Arts Festival. We had many fun faculty-led activities such as painting, Korean Mulberry paper fan making, soft sculpture (plushie making), resin art, a giant puppet parade, and so much more.” The festival also included the always popular Artist’s Market. Brasco noted that the market featured over 50 current and former KSU students who showcased and sold their art. Public and private schools in the surrounding community were also encouraged to participate in the annual juried Art Show. This show invited young artists and students grades K-12 from local schools to showcase their work and submit it for judging in one of four categories: elementary, middle, high school, and Art from the Heart. The event ievent was held at Chastain Pointe 115 Studio, which housed the studios for KSU’s Drawing, Painting, and Printmaking programs. It also contained distinct working areas for book arts, intaglio, letterpress, lithography, papermaking, relief, and serigraphy. Attendees had the opportunity to see these spaces in action through the workshops, demonstrations, and the market.

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There were swag bags for all attendees (while supplies lasted) and Zama Mexican Cuisine’s food truck was on site to offer lunch options available for purchase. There was also a special visit from Scrappy the Great Horned Owl – KSU's very own winged mascot! “The day was sure to offer something for everyone!” Brasco said. 

Images by Judith Pishnery.

DEPARTMENT of DANCE

Anne Plamondon Productions: "MYOKINE" Dance Performance By Kathie Beckett

New creation focuses on the entire body and lets its voice emerge to express current concerns

he Kennesaw State University (KSU) Department of Dance presented Anne Plamondon Productions: MYOKINE from Feb. 14-15, 2025, at the KSU Dance Theater on the Marietta campus. Known internationally as an exceptional dancer, Plamondon is also an outstanding choreographer. Her new creation, MYOKINE, focuses on the body in its entirety and lets the voice emerge to express very current concerns. Anne Plamondon Productions is a Montrealbased company and MYOKINE is one of the featured events for KSU’s Year of Canada.

Chair and professor Marsha Barsky explained that there is considerable value in KSU Dance bringing in companies from different countries. She explained that bringing in international companies expands students’ conceptions of dance, while exposing them to alternative approaches to funding, supporting, and promoting contemporary dance. “Anne's extensive professional background, Quebecois heritage, and innovative approach to movement, enhance the academic environment. Bringing this company to our campus bridges the gap between the studio classroom and professional practice,” said Barsky. In MYOKINE, Seven performers worked together in this unifying work to explore the body as a source of resilience, beauty, and hope in the face of the urgency to act that characterizes our times. Through their virtuosity and precision, and a multiple choreographic language developed throughout Plamondon's eclectic career, this energetic group of Canadian performers brings to life the power of our bodies when united in movement. “For undergraduate students, having this opportunity to immerse themselves in this level of professionalism was transformative. It allowed them to deepen their understanding of professional work in different settings, and at the same time, exposed them to work in different linguistic traditions—in this case, French and English, the two official languages of Canada,” added Barsky.  Image courtesy of Anne Plamondon.

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DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

Dog Act: The Comedic Apocalypse By Brooke Marier & Abram Miller

In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, only the strongest survive: scavengers, barbarians, cannibals, and… actors?

he Department of Theatre and Performance Studies presented the colorful story of "Dog Act." First premiering in 2004 and written by Liz Duffy Adams, "Dog Act" was a play about survival, featuring zany characters and the relationships they built during an adventure in a future hellscape. The comedy and music built into the DNA of this exciting avantgarde play were a captivating experience as it was presented through the theatrical talent of Kennesaw State University’s students. "Dog Act" explored a fresh, tongue-incheek spin on the post-apocalyptic narrative, focusing on the relationships of the characters and blending savagery with comedy. The story followed Zetta Stone, a vaudeville performer, and her companion Dog as they journeyed to a gig in China. How they would get there was anyone's guess. The obstacles between them and the destination were just as unknown as they were ridiculous. The show featured live music, quirky performances, physical comedy, and more.

The department decided to recruit a design team primarily comprised of students, showcasing the talent of the undergraduate student body. Costumes were designed by senior Søren Tucker, lights by junior Lilliana Avant, and sound by junior Parker Rawson. The show featured a set designed by senior Kailee Wang. These amazing student designs were complemented by the work of professional properties manager Ashley Foreman. Props played a crucial role in this show, with significant focus on a life-size vaudeville wagon that served as an anchor point throughout the play. This wagon, which straddled the line between prop and set piece, was custom-built by scene shop students. With the combination of talent, leadership, comedy, and experimentation going into the preparations for "Dog Act," there was no doubt that it would be an exciting performance to see. “It's unlike anything I have ever seen,” said Davis. 

Jim Davis, a faculty member at Kennesaw State University since 2007, served as the director. Davis was drawn to the experimental, avant-garde styles of theater, which was one of the reasons he chose to lead the "Dog Act" team. When casting actors for the play, Davis chose performers with a range of experience levels, from seniors to first-year students. This approach allowed students to learn from and teach each other, creating a unique dynamic within the ensemble. Right: Maisy Jane Winn as Zetta. Image by Casey Ford.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

Kennesaw State University Graduate Embraces the Art of Research By Dave Shelles

or Chantelle Chapman, research includes bright colors, gouache paints, and a studio—rather than test tubes, safety goggles, a lab coat, and a laboratory. From Chapman’s studio came an art project about an extinct bird, the Carolina parakeet, that was declared extinct in 1939. The series of gouache paintings, “Parakeet Lost,” built upon research that included visits to museum specimen collections, earned a runner-up prize at KSU’s Spring Symposium of Student Scholars, a rarity for a student in the Geer College of the Arts. “I’ve had such a wonderful response to the work. People have been so interested, first of all, to see art in a research setting, and second, I have heard over and over, ‘I never knew this bird existed!’” said Chapman, who recently earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art with a dual concentration in illustration and painting and drawing. “It felt like people

were being enriched to have learned about this lost species.” She also presented her project at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in April in Long Beach, California. Chapman went all-in for both presentations, wearing a skirt printed with illustrations of the parakeet by renowned mid-century bird artist Charley Harper, and sewed by Chapman herself— another original work that added to the project. Growing up in far north Georgia near the Smoky Mountains, Chapman spent a lot of time outside, surrounded by nature. Raised by an artist mother, she was encouraged to explore her own creativity early on. Over time, she combined the two and focused her artistic endeavors on painting animals, particularly extinct and endangered species after learning about them in elementary school. Images by Matthew Young.

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“Most people are familiar with exotic lost species, like the dodo. When I was approaching this project, I wanted to choose an animal that was more immediate and relatable—something that once lived in our own backyards – the Carolina parakeet,” she said. “It was a very compelling idea to me, that we had not only lost this unique, local animal, but forgotten about it in less than a hundred years. I wanted to inspire people to think about what other wonders are slipping away right under our noses.” She has worked with associate professor of art Jonathan Fisher for the past three years. In Spring 2021, with most of KSU’s offerings online, Chapman took a 2000-level course, Concept, Creativity, and Studio Practice. Fisher saw a mature, serious, curious, and motivated student who might do well with research as an undergraduate. “Research is homing in on any sort of curiosity that you might have,” Fisher said. “Research in the arts is more talking about a process or being kind of self-reflective around artmaking processes or around history or around people and that you can tell a story with images as well. That's the thing with Chantelle—she very easily could have just written a paper about the Carolina parakeet and how it went into extinction. But she did that research and presented as images what she felt was meaningful from that research.”

Four years on, Chapman made the right choice in colleges because she considers herself a storyteller, and KSU’s School of Art and Design illustration program helped her bring out the message in her work. She first learned about KSU at Dragon Con in Atlanta, where the University had an information table. “I've just been so, so happy with my decision to go to KSU,” she said. “Everyone's been very friendly, not only on the art and style front, but the faculty and the student body are just so supportive and encouraging. I've just really enjoyed my time here.” Chapman will continue making art and telling stories from nature. She plans on showing her art throughout the summer while applying for artist fellowships. Chapman’s next project involves the passenger pigeon, which went extinct in 1914; she’s already started the research for that project, and she hopes to include both the parakeets and the pigeons in books about extinct and endangered species. “I want to write and illustrate my own natural history-themed books, with a strong scientific grounding,” she said. “My goal is to use my art to tell the stories that I think are important, and to share them with others.” 

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

Bailey School of Music Student Ignites Passion for Singing By Dave Shelles

Passion drove Marissa Alban to KSU and from one potential career to another.

assion drove Marissa Alban to Kennesaw State University and from one potential career path to another. She came to KSU to study nursing, a field driven by the passion of its practitioners. Unable to shake her love and talent for singing, however, she channeled her passion into a music major with a focus on vocal performance, where she remains on a path toward a career as a professional singer.

After pivoting to the Bailey School of Music, the mezzo-soprano singer immersed herself in KSU’s choirs and was quickly identified by her voice teacher, Prof. Todd Wedge, as a young singer with tremendous promise. “I thought this is someone who, with hard work and stickto-itiveness, could have a professional career,” he said. “But the work doesn't stop at singing well. She must study languages, music theory, piano, opera theater, and many other facets of music that we teach here at KSU. Marissa works hard at all of it, which is what you need to have professional promise.” Opera was new to Alban. She had always sung in church and school choirs and continued those practices at KSU, but only when thendirector of KSU Opera Theater Cynthia Wohlschlager suggested she give opera a try did Alban embrace it. “It's just such a beautiful, versatile art form that combines so many different things and so many different skills,” Alban said. “In addition to the language and full use of the voice, it requires you to use your full body. It's fun.”

“I've found a home in the Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music,” she said. “It’s a really tight-knit community and a great place to practice music.” Originally dual-enrolled at East Paulding High School and KSU, Alban said nursing drew her in because of the Wellstar School of Nursing’s strong reputation and an opportunity to make an impact through caring for people. She thoroughly enjoyed her science classes and learning about the body. Still, she felt there was something else she wanted to do in life.

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During the Fall 2024 Commencement ceremonies, she sang the national anthem and KSU alma mater, a gig she will have again at the Spring 2025 ceremonies. After graduating, Alban aspires to become a professional singer, though she will seek a master’s degree after finishing at Kennesaw State. It’s a departure from her first few steps into the Dr. Bobbie Bailey and Family Performance Center, when she only knew of the prospects of a music career as an educator. Now committed to performing and fully engaged in her true passion, the path is clear. 

Left: Marissa Alban singing the National Anthem at the 2024 Commencement Ceremonies. Below: Marissa Alban pictured with KSU President Kathy Schwaig. Images by Matthew Young.

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

Zuckerman Museum of Art presents Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles Exhibition By Kathie Beckett

Artist examines how technology and textiles may intersect between disciplines and knowledge

he Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art at Kennesaw State University School of Art and Design is presenting a unique exhibition: Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles, which opened on January 28 and is running through May 10, 2025.

Annet Couwenberg, A Family Affair, 2020. Image by Dan Meyers.

Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles presents an overview of ten years of cultural research, digital experimentation, and finished artifacts by Couwenberg, who uses lace as a primary material. Through her creations, the artist questions how traditional textile construction can be modified or transformed by adapting it to digital fabrication processes.

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Couwenberg's technical experiments include 3D printing of multi-pronged connectors that are used to assemble life-size umbrella-like structures, laser-cut buckram (cloth stiffened with glue) that produces dramatic origami “infinity” collars, and Y-shaped CNC-cut polyethylene that produces infinitely scalable lace forms. Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles features a wide range of projects from the past decade, which Couwenberg has completed as part of her studio practice and in partnerships with cultural institutions throughout North America and Europe. These projects highlight the expanding technological parameters related to textiles and fabrics and their specific application in the worlds of scientific research, fashion and interior design, and contemporary social issues. The exhibition explores Couwenberg’s depth of research as well as the multiple intersections that are revealed between established disciplines and fields of knowledge. Artistinspired and viewed as one ‘installation’ within each gallery space, Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles has been organized to allow viewers to follow Couwenberg’s artistic process on multiple levels and in a non-linear format. The open-ended composition of the exhibition allows for each of her projects to expose the multiple areas of research that led to their creation. Born in the Netherlands, Couwenberg moved to the United States to obtain MFA degrees at Syracuse University and Cranbrook Academy of Art.

She has worked internationally, including in South Korea, Turkey, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Poland, and The Netherlands with one-person shows at the Center for Art Design and Visual Culture in MD, Textiel Museum in the Netherlands, Baltimore Museum of Art, Delaware Center for Contemporary Arts, American Textile History Museum, Lowell, MA and the City Gallery, Atlanta, GA. Group exhibitions include shows at the Museum of Art and Design in NYC; the 11th From Lausanne to Beijing International Fiber Art Biennale Exhibition, 10th Craft Biennale; Gyeonggi MoMa and HOMA, Seoul; the Contemporary Museum, Baltimore, MD; the Decorative Arts Museum, Little Rock, AK. She has received individual artist awards from the Maryland State and Ohio State Art Councils. The first monograph of her work has been published by Telos Art Publishing and the second, titled Annet Couwenberg, Sewing Circles, distributed by D.A.P. Couwenberg’s work has been reviewed by and featured in the New York Times,

the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, Le Monde, Crafts Magazine, BmoreArt, National Academy of Science Magazine, the Baltimore Sun, Sculpture Magazine, Fiberarts, Surface Design, Textile: The Journal of Cloth and Culture, Howl, NY. Her work is in the permanent collections of The Baltimore Museum of Art; Nederlands Textielmuseum, NL; Museum de Kantfabriek, NL; Gyeonggi Creation Center, Yeosu City Center and Jinnam Art and Culture Center, Korea; and numerous private collections. For more information, please visit www.annetcouwenberg.com. Annet Couwenberg: Sewing Circles is curated by Lori Rubeling and the traveling exhibition is organized by the Center for Art, Design, and Visual Culture, UMBC with support from Maryland State Arts Council. 

Annet Couwenberg. A Family Affair No.3, 2019-2020. Image by Dan Meyers. Modeled by Bryjette Bonner and Mara Meyers.

DEPARTMENT of THEATRE and PERFORMANCE STUDIES

Tales from Freedom Riders By Kathie Beckett

Mike Wiley presented “Breach of Peace” in one-man performance based on historical recollections

One such participant was 19-year-old Jean Thompson, who boarded a Trailways bus in Montgomery, Alabama, on May 24, 1961, with 11 other young Freedom Riders bound for New Orleans – and history. “My parents always talked about the injustice of segregation, but they were optimistic; they didn’t feel like it was going to last forever,” Thompson recalled. “They raised us to be ready. I remember my dad saying the day will come, and when it does, you should be ready.” Within three months, 300 other riders followed the path of the first brave few like Thompson. They took up the mantle to desegregate buses. Many faced angry, violent mobs, while others were arrested for shining a light on a brutal, segregated South. “Breach of Peace” was based on true accounts of surviving participants, as well as many other individuals—of various races, religions, and backgrounds—who were involved in the early struggle for African American equality. Wiley adapted these real-life stories and circumstances and turned them into a solo performance where he played all the characters on stage. It was not uncommon for the actor and playwright to portray 15-20 characters in a single performance. Amanda Wansa Morgan, artistic director and associate

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professor of Theatre and Performance Studies, explained that his work in documentary theater “lives at the intersection of theater and performance studies. He uses his skills in voice, movement, and interpretation, alongside the research he does, in a multi-faceted way. His work is truly riveting.” In addition to performing, Wiley also taught several classes to TPS students over the course of a week at KSU. Topics included working in the profession, developing character, storytelling, and adaptation. He was well qualified to teach adaptation; his repertoire included adaptations that chronicled the lives of Emmett Till and Jackie Robinson. Designed to inspire audiences, his work examined America’s racial history, taught the lessons of the past, and encouraged the application of those truths to the present. He hoped that “Breach of Peace” would be a living monument to those who rose to face the dangers of fighting for just and equal treatment. 

Image courtesy of Mike Wiley.

ennesaw State University’s Department of Theatre and Performance Studies (TPS) hosted Mike Wiley in his solo performance of “Breach of Peace” Sept. 6-8. The performance was based on true accounts of surviving participants of the Freedom Rides.

DEPARTMENT of DANCE

Physically Integrated Dance Company Offered Inspiring Performance By Kathie Beckett

ho gets to dance? How do you define the word dancer? Are only able bodies allowed to dance? Kennesaw State University’s Department of Dance answered those questions as they hosted Full Radius Dance on Sept. 25 at 12:30 p.m. at the Student Center on the Kennesaw campus. Based in Atlanta, Full Radius Dance is a professional modern dance company in the field of physically integrated dance and features dancers with and without physical disabilities. Hosting Full Radius Dance at KSU was a direct result of collaborative conversation between Chair and Professor of Dance Marsha Barsky and School of Art and Design Professor of Art Education Diana Gregory, who served on KSU’s Disability Access Coalition. “Through Professor Gregory’s recommendation, we were able to network and create a connection between Full Radius and the Department of Dance, and it turned into this unique opportunity for KSU students, faculty, staff, and our friends in the community,” said Barsky. Full Radius Dance also developed out of a collaboration. Founding Artistic and Executive Director Douglas Scott partnered with VSA arts of Georgia, the Shepherd Center and Special Audiences to teach dance classes for persons with physical disabilities. He was intrigued by the challenge of creating a modern dance technique that would be inclusive and challenging, firmly founded in art, and not designed to be therapy.

body positivity and redefining the boundaries of dance through performance, advocacy, and education. Barsky made the most of Full Radius’ visit to KSU, including classes and workshops on disability in the arts, and a residency to work closely with the dance students. “Without a doubt, Full Radius enhanced our curriculum. It was an opportunity to understand how both disabled and non-disabled dancers can form a truly integrative dance company, both in practice and in performance. It also helped our students understand the obstacles that disabled persons must overcome daily,” she said. In keeping with KSU’s emphasis on research, Barsky and Associate Professor of Dance Andrea Knowlton examined student perceptions while the company was on campus. Specifically, their research asked: What are the perceptions of students on disability and dance? Will watching a physically integrated performance change their views? Recipients of a diversity research grant from Kennesaw State’s new division of Organizational Effectiveness, Leadership Development, and Inclusive Excellence (OLI), Barsky and Knowlton hoped to create a model that perhaps could be adopted by other schools or programs. 

Through hard work, trial and error, and mutual learning between him and his students, Scott developed a distinct style and technique that is now celebrated for its artistry and inclusiveness. The Company is committed to promoting its core value of Image courtesy of Full Radius Dance.

BAILEY SCHOOL of MUSIC

Kennesaw State University Graduate Brings Two Worlds Together By Dave Shelles

ometimes, Sarah Chang’s days started at 8 a.m. with a class and a lecture in the College of Science and Mathematics and ended at 11 p.m. with the sounds of her violin in a practice room at the Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music. Chang admitted at times the long days wore on her, but she has achieved the goal of her self-designed academic journey—bachelor’s degrees in biology and music performance from Kennesaw State University. “I liked how flexible KSU is and also how encouraging they are for what I want to do,” said Chang, also enrolled in the KSU Journey Honors College. “Even though it might not be traditional and it took me an extra year, my professors and advisors were really supportive and helped me out a lot.” Growing up in a musical family, Chang was exposed daily to recordings or her mother playing the piano and cello. When she was 3, a DVD of a world-renowned violinist, also named Sarah Chang, playing Niccolo Paganini’s Violin Concerto No. 1 mesmerized her, enough that she said she watched it several times daily for months. Three years later, Chang took her first piano lesson from her mother, and at 11 picked up the violin. Around the same time, Chang saw family members and friends struggle with health issues that involved hospitalization, which left her with a feeling of helplessness she wanted to eliminate. Through her school years of high achievement in STEM classes, she arrived at Kennesaw State with a biology/pre-med track in mind. “I always loved to help people and be of use. I would notice small cues when people need something, and I would just run around to get

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it for them,” she said.

“I recall seeing the nurses and the doctors in the hospital and seeing how they directly affect patient care — that was a big inspiration for me to become a medical worker.” In addition to her degree studies in biology, Chang did groundbreaking chemistry research in the lab of former assistant professor Graham Collier. She did research into semiconducting organic polymers—active-layer materials in sensors and screens in cellphones and TVs—that can dissolve in environmentally friendly solvents and offer possible biomedical application. She was a Birla Carbon Scholar in Summer 2023 and is working on a paper for publication. Along with her research, Chang studied violin under professor Helen Kim and played in KSU’s Symphony Orchestra, serving as concertmaster for the past two years. She also played in the Cooke Scholarship Quartet as well as other small groups. For the past two years she played alongside her mother, Tabitha, who is studying music theory and expects to finish her bachelor’s degree in 2026.

“I’ve known Sarah for a long time and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching her grow as a musician and as a person,” Kim said. “To have excelled in biology and music to the extent that she has shows how diligent and intelligent she is, and it foreshadows great success in her future endeavors.” After graduating this month, Chang will begin a master’s degree in public health at Emory University this fall. She still plans on attending medical school, but will take the next two years to expand her knowledge base through public health and work on her medical school applications. Sure, the days were long and heavy with study and practice on two different parts of campus. But Chang said the two pursuits helped her be her own person, musician and scientist in one. “I learned a lot about time management at KSU, like I could always be practicing or studying with those extra minutes,” she said. “KSU also helped me find lasting relationships, independence, and work-life balance.” 

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Images by Darnell Wilburn.

To have excelled in biology and music to the extent that she has shows how diligent and intelligent she is, and it foreshadows great success in her future endeavors.

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- Helen Kim

SCHOOL of ART and DESIGN

Digital Animation Department Presents the 5th Annual Owl Film Festival By Brooke Marier

Discover the Future of Animation at KSU’s Owl Film Festival

he Digital Animation program housed within the School of Art and Design at Kennesaw State University (KSU) is thrilled to announce the return of the Owl Film Festival, celebrating its fifth edition on May 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Bailey Performance Center in Morgan Concert Hall. The festival showcases the talents of KSU's Digital Animation program, featuring works from graduating seniors and art majors. The festival is divided into three acts: Short Animations, where juniors and seniors will present their 3060 second animations; Senior Capstone Showcase, which includes non-animated concentrations such as character design, storyboarding, background and concept art, 2D animation rigging, and more; Short Animated Films, where teams of students will showcase their collaborative short films. The Owl Film Festival serves as a significant source of inspiration for current students, who are encouraged to attend and draw motivation from their peers’ work. Among the standout projects, Quincy Saunders' senior film, Autumntross, is highly anticipated after her second-place win last year. Other notable artists include Skully Gilder and Ava Sins, who have led impressive teams for their films. The festival also benefits from the guidance of experienced faculty and industry professionals.

The festival will feature awards judged by esteemed guests from prominent animation studios. In previous years, judges such as Adult Swim, Netflix, Disney, Marvel, and more helped to decide the winners. This year’s trophies, designed by student Michelle Brannan with the assistance of Professor Paul Orlando, will be produced using the 3D Printing Lab in the Visual Arts building. As the program’s largest event each year, many students begin thinking of their contributions to the festival as early as their freshman year. The festival’s emphasis on producing professionalcaliber work has helped many graduates secure successful careers in the animation industry. Additionally, the festival attracts industry attendees, providing students with valuable international exposure and networking opportunities. The Owl Film Festival exemplifies the department’s commitment to collaboration and excellence. The festival fosters a culture of teamwork and innovation by encouraging students to pursue their chosen career roles while working on their senior capstone projects. The festival aims to elevate the animation industry by supporting talented animators who value both individual expertise and collective effort.  Graphic designed by Joshua Stone.

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Image by Lauren Liz Photography.

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