The USITT conference is where leadership in educational and professional stage management meets annually to discuss and demonstrate best practices in stage management and the teaching and training of stage management. Though we have a nationally recognized undergraduate stage management program here at UM, which I’ve lead and overseen for 23 years, we have not been involved with the national community. My recent appointment change to full-time clinical faculty will now allow me to fully and physically engage with and learn from the leaders in my field, ultimately becoming one of them. The first step is attending this year’s conference, where I can engage in several continuing education opportunities and meet and engage with the community leaders, members and stakeholders.

My goals for attending the conference are to:
1) Increase my understanding of new ideas, technologies, and products in stage management.
2) Brainstorm with other educators about current course content.
3) Brainstorm with other educators about best practices in teaching and mentoring.
4) Attend Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion workshops presented by the education arm of the organization.
5) Network with other professionals and educators to make connections that will benefit current students and alumni seeking summer and post-graduation employment.
6) Create more understanding nationally about our programming at UM.