Shaping the Future of EdTA
EdTA Advisory Committees bring together members from across our community to provide feedback and recommendations that help guide the future of our programs and initiatives. Committee members collaborate with fellow educators, share their expertise, and help strengthen educational theatre nationwide.
Unless otherwise noted, Advisory Committee applications will reopen in 2028.
What to Expect as an Advisory Committee Member
- Serve a two-year term (with the opportunity to serve one additional consecutive term)
- Attend virtual meetings, as frequently as once per month (approximately one hour each)
- Complete occasional work between meetings, such as reviewing materials, providing feedback, or participating in working groups (approximately 10-15 hours annually)
- Actively participate in discussions and collaborate with fellow members
- Maintain active EdTA membership throughout their term
Additional responsibilities and expectations are outlined in each committee’s charter below.
Explore the Committees
Access, Affordability, & Fundraising Committee
The Access, Affordability, and Fundraising Committee supports EdTA’s and the Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF)’s continuous improvement of the resources ETF offers to EdTA members.
2026-2028 Committee Members:
Amanda Burr, Kenneth Carter, Tori Scoles, Michelle Smith
EdTA Advocacy Committee
The EdTA Advocacy Committee helps strengthen and advance theatre education advocacy across the country by learning about current campaigns, exploring EdTA’s role, and sharing ideas for empowering members in their communities.
Application is open until October 2!
Any EdTA Member is welcome to apply.
EdTA Awards Committee
The EdTA Awards Committee is a nominating, adjudication, and advisory body that supports the ongoing growth and development of the EdTA Awards program.
2026-2028 Committee Members:
Shalem Carr, Debra Corbin, Helen Duranleau Brennan, Kelly Duyn, Jim Hoare, Heidi Aaron Rouse
Education Steering Committee
The Education Steering Committee supports the ongoing development of Main Stage, Chapter Select, and educational programming at EdTA events.
2026-28 Committee Members:
Cathy Archer, Meredith Campbell, Kelly Davis, Jim Devivo, Betsy Goldman, Peggy Matanic, Terri Turner, Jaryn Wester, Aileen Zeigler
Events Advisory Committee
The Events Advisory Committee supports the ongoing growth and success of EdTA and International Thespian Society events, including the International Thespian Festival.
2026-28 Committee Members:
Jason Cooper, Brian Curl, Rachel Dupree, Shelby English, Nicole Morgan, Adam Steffan, Ben Stuart
Executive Director Advisory Committee
The Executive Director Advisory Committee is committed to supporting the ongoing development and continuous improvement of the Association.
2026-28 Committee Members:
Kate Arthur, Laura Byrne, Krista Carson Elhai, Sharon Chadwick, Jo Lane, Tami LoSasso, Jennifer Morgan-Beuchat, Nicholas Sostillio
Membership & Operations Advisory Committee
The Membership & Operations Advisory Committee supports the ongoing development and continued success of the EdTA membership experience.
2026-28 Committee Members:
Sarah Buchheit, Tracey Buot, Lucas Clark, Ron Fedele, Molly Grasso, Arielle Murdocco, Ray Palasz
Thespy Advisory Committee
The Thespy Advisory Committee is committed to supporting the ongoing growth and success of the Thespy program across EdTA chapters and national events.
2026-28 Committee Members:
Zachary Bates, Amanda Betz, Branson Cobb, Scott Cooney, Kristina Cummins, Crit Fisher, Kristi Jacobs Stanley, Isaiah Mateas, Laura Nugent, Zachary Rivera, Beverley Shanahan, Alan Strait, Kendra Willeby
How to Apply
- Members should review the committee charter before applying.
- Members may apply for multiple committees but will only be selected to serve on one committee.
- Complete the application by August 21, 2026.
With the exception of the Thespy Advisory Committee, applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee below. Appointments are made with the goal of creating committees that reflect the breadth and diversity of the EdTA community:
- Richard Frazier-Sostillio, EdTA Board President
- Cheryl Wiliams, EdTA Board Director
- Amy Jordan, Texas Thespians Chapter Director
- Tori Scoles, Oregon Thespians Chapter Director
- Carolyn Greer, Kentucky Thespians Chapter Director
- Carolyn Little, New Jersey Thespians Chapter Director
- Daniel Stahl, Arkansas Thespians Chapter Director
The Thespy Advisory Committee will be selected by a group comprised of EdTA Board, Staff, and transitional appointees.
Selected applicants will be notified after the review process is complete, and Advisory Committees will begin their work September 1.