Powell Brings New Energy and Vision to Performing Arts at FSCC
There is new energy surrounding the performing arts at Fort Scott Community College as Dr. Lauren Powell works to create more opportunities for students interested in music and theater.
As FSCC’s Director of Performance, Powell oversees the college’s performing arts programs, including band, choir, and theater. Her work extends beyond the FSCC campus as she recruits students, builds relationships with area educators and organizations, and looks for new ways to connect students with opportunities to create and perform.
Powell has already reached out to more than 50 high school band and choir directors throughout the region. She has also connected with the local community theater and has master classes and vocal workshops planned at surrounding schools.
“By creating these relationships, I feel we can create a space that will provide comfort and artistic and personal growth when they join our program,” Powell said.
Her vision is to develop a performing arts program that serves students at every level. That includes students considering careers in music education, performance, songwriting, production, or other areas of the industry, as well as students who simply love music and want it to remain part of their college experience.
Powell also sees opportunities to expand musical theater, classical and contemporary music, stage productions, and collaborations between FSCC and the surrounding community.
That growth is already beginning with students currently on campus. Powell is recruiting students from a variety of academic programs and developing ensembles around the instruments and voices available. Students will even have opportunities to help shape what those groups perform.
“I am letting them lead our repertoire, within reason, so they are more eager to learn and play,” Powell said.
As the program develops, Powell hopes FSCC students will become increasingly visible on campus and throughout the region. Future opportunities could include performing the National Anthem at athletic events, playing local gigs, participating in campus activities, and performing at area high schools.
But for Powell, building the performing arts program is about more than performances. It is about helping students discover what they are capable of doing.
“I’m most excited about helping build students’ confidence and belief in their talent, creating a community of support,” Powell said. “I can only hope that some will go on to be artists for the rest of their lives and say that this program motivated them to do so.”
Whether a student hopes to make music a career or simply isn’t ready to leave something they love behind when they enter college, Powell wants them to know there is a place for them at Fort Scott Community College.
“Creative arts are still thriving, and here at Fort Scott Community College we plan on continuing to grow that creativity for years to come,” Powell said.