Abstract
This article presents a case study of recruitment and retention strategies employed by the drama and speech department at Lewis Clark State College, a small institution with limited faculty and resources. The author outlines a multifaceted approach centered on collaboration with regional high school drama teachers and the cultivation of a supportive departmental community. Key initiatives include hosting an annual High School Drama Day, attending local high school productions, awarding a Presidential Scholarship through auditions and portfolios, and providing ongoing assistance to secondary educators through advising and networking. Internal retention efforts focus on financial aid, departmental social events, student evaluations, and active participation in Alpha Psi Omega. Administrative support and faculty involvement are shown to be critical to sustaining these initiatives. The essay concludes that strong relationships with feeder schools, coupled with consistent communication and recognition of student achievement, can effectively maintain enrollment and morale in small theatre programs despite structural and financial limitations.
Recommended Citation
Hennigan, Shirlee
(1986)
"Recruiting and Retaining Students Through the High School Drama Teacher,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 58, Article 18.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol58/iss1/18
