May 7, 2020
Virtual induction ceremony recognizes accomplishments of outstanding theatre arts majors with induction to Alpha Psi Omega
Hackettstown, N.J., May 7, 2020—Centenary University recently inducted 11 theatre arts students into Alpha Psi Omega, the National Theatre Honor Society. The organization has promoted excellence in theatrical production, academic work, and community service for almost a century.
The induction ceremony was held virtually this year to comply with the quarantine imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the lockdown has presented challenges to theatre students, the situation has also enabled Centenary faculty and students to find creative ways to advance their theatre studies during the lockdown, according to Carl Wallnau, chairman of the Fine Arts Department and artistic director of Centenary Stage Company, an equity theatre company in residence at the University.
“Obviously, the theatre is about live performance, so having an induction for a live art form done on a virtual platform is not ideal,” Wallnau explained. “But our students and faculty made it work, as they have all semester. I think it reflects their commitment and their talent. It’s as good a group as we have ever had, and I look forward to seeing their work and watching them grow in the future.”
Students who have completed two semesters at Centenary and actively participated in theatre activities are eligible for nomination to Alpha Psi Omega. Centenary students inducted at this year’s ceremony are:
Maryland
Clarksville—Amanda (Catherine) Tossman
New Jersey
Andover—Emily Kurnides
Franklin Park—Serena Buchan
Freehold—Emily Bennett
Hackettstown—Amanda Ackerman
Harmony— Anna Summitt
Neptune City— Megan Moran
Panther Valley—Ryan Washington
Paterson—Kylah Wilson
Stillwater—Michaela Bennett
Washington Township (Bergen County)—Casey Giblin
Centenary University’s theatre arts program provides students with proven foundations in the field, while introducing them to emerging trends and technologies driving the industry. With a student theatre troupe and the Centenary Stage Company—an equity company in residence on campus—Centenary students gain hands-on experience and interact with working professionals without ever leaving campus. In fact, theatre majors at Centenary gain points as Equity Membership candidates.
ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is located in Hackettstown, N.J., with its equestrian facility in Washington Township. The Centenary University School of Professional Studies offers degree programs at two locations, Parsippany and Edison, as well as online and at corporate sites throughout New Jersey.