URTA Announces Recipients of 2026 Excellence Awards

Alabama State University of Savannah College of Art & Design Recognized

NEW YORK –URTA proudly announces the recipients of the 2026 Awards for Excellence in Undergraduate Training. The awards recognize outstanding work of undergraduate instructors, coaches, and mentors, as well as institutions, for excellence in the training and preparation of undergraduate theatre artists.
This year’s award recipients are:

Individuals

• Jennifer Dasher, Assistant Director, University of Florida (Costume Design & Technology)
• Elizabeth Greer, Private Coach (Acting)
• Brian Hapcic, Professor, University of Northern Colorado (Lighting Design & Technology)
• Emily Lotz, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (Scenic Design & Technology)
• Karen Kangas-Preston, Sr. Academic Specialist, Michigan State University (Properties Design)
• Rachel Wells, Technical Director, Northern Michigan University (Technical Direction)

Institutions

• Acting – Alabama State University
• Design & Technology – Savannah College of Art and Design

URTA acknowledges the vital contribution of these instructors and institutions; providing undergraduates with the essential skills needed for advanced theatre training, and ultimately to take their place in the profession.

The two institutions, Alabama State and SCAD, will receive Candidate Awards, providing free registration for the URTAs to a student of their choice.

“The URTA Excellence Awards continue to highlight a special class of undergraduate mentors,” said URTA Executive Director, Tony Hagopian, “the 2026 awardees are making a lasting impact on the next generation of theatre artists.”

Each year, nearly 1,000 candidates pursuing graduate training in theatre take part in the URTA Auditions & Interviews (“the URTAs”). The event also includes classes, workshops, and panel discussions on theatre topics of interest to both candidates and recruiters. Candidate registration for the 2027 URTAs opens August 30, 2026.

The University Resident Theatre Association – Founded in 1969 with the mission of supporting excellence in theatre training. Fifty years later, URTA is still setting the stage for professional training, emerging theatre artists, and professional advancement. To learn more about URTA and its programs and services, visit
urta.com.
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