Coppin State University's “She a Gem” Sets New Record with Seven National Honors at American College Theatre Festival
Production also earns three Region 2 commendations, marking the most decorated showing in program history
BALTIMORE— Coppin State University's theatre program is celebrating its most successful showing yet at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (ACTF), with its production of She a Gem, by Josh Wilder, earning seven national honors and three Region 2 commendations — a new record for the university.
The recognition spans every level of production, honoring the cast, choreography, and ensemble work that brought the story to life on stage.
The achievement reflects Coppin State's strategic commitment to experiential, real-world learning that prepares students for careers in their fields while elevating the university's visibility on regional and national stages. She a Gem's showing at ACTF gave theatre students a platform to apply classroom training in a competitive, juried setting alongside peers from across the country — the kind of hands-on opportunity central to Coppin's mission of developing talent that is both Baltimore-rooted and nationally recognized.
National Honors
Citizen Artist Award selection — She a Gem, recognized among a national slate of productions honored for using theatre to advance empathy and social impact
Distinguished Performance in a Play — Andrea Dixon (‘28)
Distinguished Performance in a Play — Jada Thomas (‘28)
Distinguished Performance in a Play — Lottie E. Porch (Adjunct Professor)
Distinguished Performance in a Play — Imani Abney (Guest Performer)
Distinguished Performance Ensemble — She a Gem by Josh Wilder (Assistant Professor of Theatre)
Distinguished Movement Direction — Leila Edwards (M.S. ‘10)
Region 2 Commendations
Choreography — Camille Weanquoi (Program Coordinator of Dance)
Learning Double Dutch
Audience Engagement
“This is the most recognition our program has ever received at ACTF, and it reflects the talent and discipline of every student who stepped on that stage. Seven national honors and three regional commendations for one production is a remarkable achievement, and I could not be prouder of this cast, crew, and creative team,” said Dr. Garey A. Hyatt, Program Coordinator, Visual and Performing Arts at Coppin State University.
