By Jailyn Santiago
santj339@mail.broward.edu
For Professor Mariah Reed, teaching isn’t just about homework and tests; it’s about student engagement and applying learned materials in the real world. Professor Reed is a theatre professor at Broward College, teaching courses like Voice and Acting, where students can explore their abilities as actors and learn new techniques.
Before becoming a professor, Mariah Reed had an extensive career in the theatre. Her very first production was a show she wrote, directed, and performed in herself. She reflects on her experience later on and says, “I went from being a theatre student to being a professional, union-affiliated actress for nearly twenty years. I toured the United States with the National Shakespeare Company and performed in multiple theatrical presentations in New York City.” Eventually, she decided to take a step back and officially begin her teaching career.
One can describe a class led by Mariah Reed as an outlet of creativity. It’s clear to her students that her job is her passion, never once turning down a question or letting students leave the room confused. “In my experience, when students feel they are working in a safe space they aren’t afraid to make mistakes, and they embrace risk, leading to exciting and empowering new choices in an atmosphere of mutual respect.” says Reed. By providing answers with constructive feedback, students are more collaborative with one another and participate in open discussions during the course. When asked what her teaching philosophy was, she said, “When I inspire a student to love learning, that student will embrace challenges and thrive.”
But the content isn’t just Chekov and Shakespeare; it’s techniques and habits that can be used in the real world. “In theatre classes, students learn valuable communication skills. They learn how to listen and respond, to be present in the moment, and to think critically.” All of these things are valuable traits to have in any workplace. “Each show requires extensive research into genre, time periods, societal shifts, and enlightening themes that must be reflected in all design elements as well as in the performances,” Reed explains. Research skills and creativity are often utilized in other aspects of their education, like English and creative writing.
Reed says that in her time as a professor, she has learned so much from her students and will miss them the most when she retires. Her support in her transfer class has given students the chance to grow and refine their portfolios; some institutions that
her students have transferred to include DePaul, NYU, and Pace University. “After I retire, I will be moving to Philadelphia where I hope to continue my creative work in the professional arena. If possible, I’d love to do some part-time teaching at Philly colleges, but time will tell where I’m meant to continue my journey!” As Professor Reed’s time here on the PCAT stage comes to an end, her work in the theatre will live on and continue to inspire current and future students at Broward College.