This letter is in response to hearing of Karen Higgenbotham being fired from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. I must say, upon hearing the news I was completely shocked. How can a woman who has done so much for the Academy be given such undeserving and unfair treatment? She showed her loyalty and dedication to the Academy for over 20 years contributing to the growth and calibre of the school. One of the first people I made contact with when applying to the Academy was Karen. Her warmth, generosity of time and numerous personal phone calls to calm a small town girl’s nerves, sealed the deal that the Academy was a safe and nurturing place to pursue my acting studies. As the first point of contact, I really believe she set the tone for what was to be expected. I remember having numerous questions about visas and legalities and her always making time to help solve or answer any questions I had. I can only imagine how many other people she was helping with the same questions all while specifically tending to each individual’s unique needs. While attending the school, I always felt she was a kind, funny, generous and lovely person to confide in, chat with, joke around with and look to for general guidance. She went above and beyond what her job description called for and I am appalled to think that she is being let go under the guise of “poor performance”. I find this SUPREMELY hard to believe. She, without a doubt, was a very important and integral part of my experience at the Academy. I cannot imagine the school without her. Tracey Beltrano Class of 2001 Company Member 2001-2002