I thought it would be neat because if these students go on in acting, they will likely be doing dinner theater. Insert joke about actors being waiters and waitresses here.

I chose it because we hadn't done anything like it before. The kids need to experience that kind of acting. One of my objectives is to show them different styles of acting and literature.

I also thought it was important (for students) to see a black young lady achieving her goals.

It gets more kids involved. And then the audience will come more than one night to see the different cast.

We anticipate it will be a setting which might bring faculty, staff and students together for conversation, while enjoying beer or wine, something to eat and good music.

They maintain a visible yet understated presence, acting proactively rather than reactively. Students need to feel like they can approach them, or any other staff member, with security concerns. I think we do a good job of making students feel comfortable. That goes a long way toward preventing trouble before it starts.