SPRING 2016
EVOKE CHANGE Summit engages dialogue about diversity and inclusion in dramatic arts B Y A N I T A D A SH I EL L - SP A RKS
For in-depth stories about these events, visit dramaticarts.usc.edu/ news Photos by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging.
THE USC SCHOOL OF DRAMATIC ARTS
organized a four-day-long summit in the fall devoted to dialogue around issues of race, gender, culture and identity — not only in our School, but throughout our field. The Diversity Summit served as an enriching, creative and critical catalyst to spark informed conversations among our faculty, staff and students about these complex issues. Throughout the summit’s programming, which included breakout sessions, performances, presentations, panels, interactive workshops and a culmination forum, all stakeholders in SDA were encouraged and challenged to be conscious, authentic and active participants with mutual respect and sensitivity to the different perspectives and experiences represented in the room. A “safe and inclusive” space was fostered and sustained by Interim Dean David Bridel, our guest facilitator, noted playwright and diversity and inclusion advocate and consultant Jacqueline E. Lawton, and alumni, artists, professors and scholars. (continued on page 8) 3