Dr. Colleen L. Rua, assistant professor of theater, has been awarded the Leonidas Nickole Award by the New England Theatre Conference.
The award recognizes excellence in theater education at all levels as demonstrated through dedication to theater pedagogy, innovation in the field and achievement throughout one’s career.
“I was surprised and so honored,” said Dr. Rua, who came to BSU three years ago. “It particularly means a lot because I was nominated by my students.”
Another reason the award is special, Professor Rua said, is that two of her former teachers, Robert Colby and Bethany Nelson, have received it in the past.
Previously, Dr. Rua has worked in community theater and with educational programs for young people. She has been active with Arlington Children’s Theater and worked with youth groups while earning her undergraduate degree at Suffolk University. (She has a master’s from Emerson College and a PhD from Tufts.)
“Youth and community theater have always been part of my life,” she said.
Dr. Rua’s areas of expertise include theater history and criticism. She’s also teaching classes on acting and Latin American theater.
She will receive the award at the New England Theatre Conference’s meeting on Oct. 24. (Story and photo by John Winters, G ’11)
