Archive for December, 2022
Terena Wilkens
“I couldn’t have envisioned a more exciting opportunity: to create a new state-of-the-art theatre from floor to ceiling.” In the decision to build a tech-laden “laboratory” theatre between Anderson Theatre and the Nobel Hall of Science, including supporting spaces for costumes, scene building, and storage, Wilkens found herself at that nexus too. As the Gustavus […]
Megan “MJ” Johnson ’18
“In rejecting the ‘have to’ script, I have become the change I wished to see in myself.” The first year was a bit of a rough start for this first-generation college student. “I came to Gustavus feeling like an incredibly serious student. I felt like there were things I had to do, like study communications […]
Professor Jeff Jeremiason
“He’s got the students plugged in, too.” In the 1980s, Jeff Jeremiason was a big Metallica fan. Now he’s interested in a different kind of heavy metal. The Gustavus chemistry professor is a leading researcher on mercury and lead contamination in two northern Minnesota ecosystems: the Saint Louis River and its mouth on Lake Superior, […]
Matt Berkner ’19
“All in, what happens when you commit to being uncomfortable? Growth. And wins. Berkner had a solid plan: He would go to the University of Minnesota and become a dentist. Then one day in high school, in his hometown of Sleepy Eye, a Gustavus football coach approached him after a game and asked him to […]
Maddie Miller ‘20
“My time in the Gustavus Theatre & Dance Department really pushed me to explore all sides of myself as an artist through careful reflection and consideration of my creative intentions. This has taught me to be resilient and open to change which have both been essential in the current global climate.”
Sydney Sutherland ’22
“I was initially drawn to Gustavus because of the opportunities to work both onstage and backstage. As I got more experience, I was drawn to stage management and assistant stage management because I was able to view the full scope of the process, and found joy in taking on a leadership role within the department. […]
Aurora Schelmeske ’24
“Theater at Gustavus has been such an invigorating experience for me! Exploring shows under the guidance of these fantastic professors is a joy. I am so grateful every day for the chance to participate in this wonderful community of creatives!”
Ella Schwakopf ’25
“Being a part of the dance program at Gustavus has brought me a sense of joy. Through experiences onstage and in the studio, the department has helped me find and explore my own sense of movement. The faculty truly pushes, supports, and cares about your growth as an individual. Becoming involved in the Theatre & […]
Robbie Swenson ’25
“Theatre at Gustavus is rad! My actor peers are so welcoming and talented, professors in the department are knowledgeable, and the people behind the scenes are skilled and hardworking. Even as a first-year student last year, I felt a strong sense of belonging in the Gustavus theater community, which was wonderful. I thoroughly enjoy being […]
Kelsi Rygg ’25
“Being in the dance program my first year has been an amazing experience. Coming in, I met so many welcoming people and I really found my place here at Gustavus. Gustavus dance has allowed me to grow as a dancer and person, build my confidence, and has given me a place to express myself. I […]