Whitworth Universtiy built Cowles Memorial Auditorium in 1956. Cowles is now a completely inadequate building, and does not provide the needs of a modern theatrical education. Cowles is in need of significant infrastructure investment, remodel or replacement, to be an adequate educational facility for the students of Whitworth University. As an educator, and artist, who values my experience at Whitworth I cannot, in good conscience, let this valuable program languish in the impoverished conditions any longer. I ask the Administration for three things:

1. A clear plan to address the needed upgrades, or new construction, of the facility to make it a vibrant part of the Whitworth Community. This includes, but is not limited to: Increasing classroom space, creating a modern theatrical performance space that utilizes current theatrical technologies, making the entire facility ADA compliant.

2. An institutional commitment to continue an investment in the facility and infrastructure (lighting, sound, automation, rigging, networking etc.) to better train actors, directors, designers and technicians in current theatrical practice.

3. A renewed enthusiasm for recruiting quality students to the theatre program, and a commitment to supporting those students from their first day on campus, to graduation, and out into the workforce.

Take a moment, and sign this petition to have your voice heard.