Contac:
Linda Relyea
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lsrelyea@adams.edu
www.adams.edu/news
Colorado Springs natives receive theatre degrees from Adams State University
ALAMOSA, CO. (January 16, 2023) – Rebecca “Bex” Schmitt and Alanah Rae Wood, Colorado Springs, Colo., graduated from Adams State University during the Fall 2022 Commencement Ceremony on December 17, 2022. Schmitt received a Bachelor of Arts in theatre arts secondary English licensure and Wood earned her bachelor’s degree in theatre. Adams State awarded 275 degrees at the ceremony.
Schmitt remembers her parents going through college while raising their children. “That gives me another level of appreciation for everything they did. I am grateful I was able to have their support and understanding through my degree.”
Adams State was the best choice for Schmitt. “The theatre department will always be my family, and through my friends and mentors there I have grown so much.”
The professors in each of Schmitt’s disciplines, including teacher education, English and theatre, were passionate about their subjects. “The professors in theatre are some truly life changing educators and artists. They do so much for the students here; from being a shoulder to cry on to someone to go to for adult advice.”
During her time at Adams State, Schmitt worked as head of the theatre properties department and served as a student ambassador in admissions. She received several scholarships and graduated after 4.5 years, including her student teaching, with very little student loan debt.
Directing “French Pig,” by David Jacobi, was Schmitt’s favorite accomplishment. “However, I can proudly say that I was involved in every production during my time here.”
Her first year, Schmitt was unsure of herself. “Now I feel confident as a professional, and I can bring my expertise to any table. The lessons I learned showed me a whole new way to look at the world. I never knew that someone could get a doctorate in theatre before coming here. That is my next goal.”
Wood, a graduate of Widefield High School, is the first in her immediate family to earn a bachelor’s degree. “It’s just wild to be able to attend and see the world from a new viewpoint.”
Wood graduated in five years and was heavily involved with the Theatre Department her entire college career. She concluded her Adams State career by designing the set for the holiday production “Little Women.” She said: “I’m not the same person I was when I started, I’ve found courage to face unknown challenges and confidence to be a professional.”
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Throughout her college career, Rebecca Schmitt was very active in the theatre program, including acting in “Clyt; or, The Bathtub Play.” She graduated from Adams State University, Colo., during the fall 2022 commencement ceremony.
For her Adams State University senior theatre thesis, Alanah Wood designed the set for “Little Women.” She graduated during the fall 2022 commencement ceremony.