Dyson College of Arts and Sciences
Issue link: http://dysoncollege.uberflip.com/i/1415678
D Y S O N Y E A R I N R E V I E W 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 2 1 22 A isha Mann-Cooper '12 ASDS alumna forges ahead as a successful producer and entrepreneur during the pandemic A isha Mann-Cooper's journey to being a successful film producer, multi- hyphenated a ist, and entrepreneur was not a linear one. She a ended a local college instead of an a school she was accepted to, majoring in economics and finance, and heeding the advice of her mom, who was concerned for her daughter's future security. She continued on a traditional trajectory until the stock market crash of 2008, a time that forced her to face her fears and follow her hea to enroll in the MFA in Acting program at Pace's Actors Studio Drama School. "One of the hardest things I could do was to leave a stable career for my dream, but I realized that nothing is really stable. If you are passionate about achieving a dream, even in the toughest of times, pursue that dream, and you will be fulfilled," she said. Read her full story online. EYE ON ARTS Taking the Vi ual Stage Despite the pandemic and vi ual learning, students of the Pace University School of Pe orming A s (PPA) rose to the occasion to present work digitally, experiencing a brand-new way of reaching audiences. "While the pandemic stoked fear and anxiety in all of us, there were also moments that provided a sense of determination and resilience. It was inspiring to see our incredible students, staff, and faculty rise above and bring creative solutions to the table," said Interim Executive Director Grant Kretchik, MFA. The pandemic reached not only actors and pe ormers but also the crew, production, and design students who faced a challenge unlike any they've ever experienced: bringing the stage to Zoom. "Theater people are problem solvers. When we can't pe orm, we always find ways to explore, express, and fulfill our creative nature. While the result might have looked very different, the hea remained the same," said Kretchik. The Laramie Project Twel h Night—a new musical News & Notes