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Conservatory Alumni

Alumni in Koresh Dance Company Return to Campus to Teach Master Classes and Perform
Friday, November 1, 2024 Point Park graduates discuss their career paths, what it was like returning to campus and offer career advice to aspiring dancers.
(L-R) Paige Devitt, Callie Hocter, Mia Davis and Kevin Ocampo. Photo | Ethan Stoner
Alumni Profile
Cheryl Mann '94
"Point Park was the perfect place for me to grow as a person and an artist."
Pictured is Cheryl Mann.
Alumni Profile
Steve Jacks '06
"Point Park quickly gave me the chance to collaborate and create. In my second semester, I was given hands-on opportunities to make short films."
Pictured is cinema alumnus Steve Jacks '06.
Alumni Profile
Megan Chiu '20
"Point Park University has so much to offer. The facilities are amazing and the dance program prepares you for your career."
Alumni Profile
Treven Carter '23
"The objective of the fellowship is to build networks with industry professionals, attend workshops to extend knowledge within the animation industry and gain mentorship from individuals who work at DreamWorks."
Pictured is Treven Carter. Photo | Kayla Green
Award-Winning Actor Jaquel Spivey '21 Reminds the Class of 2024, "Be Loud and Proud That You Went to Point Park University"
Thursday, May 30, 2024 "The world is still discovering who Point Park is and what Point Park is, and they don't know the beauty and excellence that is in this university. I hope you leave here today and you are loud and proud that you went to Point Park University."
Pictured is Jaquel Spivey '21 at 2024 Commencement. Photo | Mark Simpson
Alumni Profile
Jaquel Spivey '21
From Broadway stage to the big screen, Point Park University's Jaquel Spivey '21 highlights his roles in "Mean Girls" and "A Strange Loop."
Jaquel Spivey as Damien Hubbard in "Mean Girls" by Paramount Pictures. .
Alumni Profile
Haley Gillespie '22
"Having a degree in dance from Point Park has helped me earn respect from my colleagues. Graduating from the program says something about the kind of student you are, and the level of excellence you bring."
Pictured is Haley Gillespie. Photo | Tony Moux
Alumni Profile
Nick Fearon '15
"To be a dance major at Point Park means that you will work harder than you ever have before, but you will also be rewarded with incredible memories and friends that will be so unique to your experience. The dance program pushes your limits and sets you up for a successful career."
(Center) Pictured is Nick Fearon. Photo | Andrew Eccles
Alumni Profile
Ahmad Simmons '10
"I am so lucky to have had the foundation of Point Park's dance training. It has allowed me to thrive in so many areas of the arts industry as a performer from state to screen — and now on the other side of the table."
Alumni Profile
Viveca Chow '16
"I had an incredible support system from all my friends and teachers. The teachers really care about you and your individuality at Point Park, and that's what I loved the most."
Pictured is Viveca Chow. Photo | Sam Pickart Photography
Alumni Profile
Mallory Marinack '12
"Take classes in all styles, not just your concentration, and take a variety of teachers. Every teacher has a different array of knowledge and insight into the dance world that can prove to be invaluable in shaping your future."
Alumni Profile
Alumnus James Gowan and Fellow Alonzo King LINES Ballet Company Members Host Q&A with Students
"Point Park's rigorous dance program provides students the ability to grow and have a taste of the real world before they step into it. Additionally, the diverse program allows students to explore all that dance can be."
Alumni Profile
Tony Moux '13
"Since graduating, I have been published nationally in editorial magazines, photographed and creatively directed campaigns for brands like Dermalogica, PPG Paints and People Magazine. I've had so many opportunities that I was able to build from my college experience."
Alumni Profile
Annie Gagen '15
"At the time I was looking at schools, Point Park was one of the few that offered a concentration in jazz, rather than just ballet and modern. That was one of the first things that drew me there, aside from the excellent reputation that both the dance and musical theatre departments had."
Annie Gagen (second from right) and the Company of Hairspray. Photo | Jeremy Daniel
Alumni Profile
Ashley C. Stokes '18
"Having four regional Emmy’s under my belt after my first year working for PBS is humbling. It inspires me to continue to share stories that make a difference in our communities and eventually around the world."
Alumni Profile
Reyna Guerra '20
"The Conservatory of Performing Arts is known for its rigorous training. I knew of the solid reputation of its graduates and felt it was the place to grow as an artist and learn more about the industry."
Alumni Profile
Tracy Brigden '19
"I've plays performed around the country, a podcast reach number one on the charts and a film script in development with a major production company. I would have never thought I could do all that without the learning and encouragement from Point Park University's M.F.A. program."
Pictured is Tracy Brigden. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Milky Tran '20
"I loved that you began making and experimenting with film your freshman year ... I’m grateful that Point Park had such a heavy focus on storytelling and allowed me to go through the full process of making a film many, many times."
Pictured is Milky Tran. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Hunter Mikles '16
Jazz alumnus Hunter Mikles '16 authored "Hunter the Dancing Fox" to inspire young artists to pursue their dreams.
Pictured is Hunter Mikles. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Lauren Keller '22
"Point Park accepted my credits easily, which helped with the transferring process. I am a hands-on learner and was excited that Point Park puts a camera in your hands freshman year in this program."
Alumni Profile
Tianna Davis '22
Tianna Davis '22 was accepted into the BMI Musical Theatre Workshop as a composer and lyricist.
Pictured is Tianna Davis.
Alumni Profile
Jana Larell Glover '22
"I had the best time auditioning for SIX. As an alternate, I cover three of the six queens and use so many skills I developed in college. This show was beautifully written, composed and choreographed, and as an actor, it is my job to portray that the best I can."
Alumni Profile
Caleb Mathura '22
2022 musical theatre alumnus Caleb Mathura plays Kevin G. in MEAN GIRLS the Musical.
Pictured is Caleb Mathura. Photo | Darnell Bennet
Alumni Profile
Andrea Weinzierl '14
"I chose Point Park because of how well-rounded the Conservatory is. I knew I would get top-notch training in all three disciplines: singing, dancing and acting."
Pictured is Andrea Weinzierl. Photo | Tony Moux
Alumni Profile
Melessie Clark '15
"Point Park equipped me with the confidence, materials and skills needed to not only have a successful audition, but it also prepared me for what is required once a role is obtained," said Clark.
Alumni Profile
Connor Russell '12
"Point Park gave me the tools I needed to gain a well-rounded foundation in the arts. I left my college experience feeling like I had a solid footing in every area that I studied. In my opinion, this flexibility has greatly impacted my post-college career."
Pictured is Connor Russell. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Stephanie Kyung Sun Walters '22
"For a working professional who doesn’t want to uproot their entire life/family, this program is a great fit ... The educators are here to help you succeed when experiencing new mediums or tackling a different format."
Pictured is Stephanie Kyung Sun Walters. Photo | Katie Raines, Plate 3 Photography
Alumni Profile
Lamont Walker II '17
"Teachers like Zeva Barzell, Robin Walsh, and so many others I was fortunate to work with, knew how to shape young actors who had a passion for their craft. Point Park taught me how to do the hard work and I was blessed to have professors who shaped the actor I am today."
Pictured is Lamont Walker II.
Alumni Profile
Giuseppe Esposito '19
"One of the reasons I chose Point Park was its location. It was hard to beat for me. The equipment and facilities for the animation program are top-notch as well, so make use of it all."
Pictured is alumnus Giuseppe Esposito.
Alumni Profile
Brianna Wuenschel '20
"The cinema program's immediate immersion in filmmaking was so different from other schools. From the first year you are already creating your own films and this was very important to me in choosing a school."
Pictured is Brianna Wuenschel. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Maya Bowles '20
"The faculty prepared us for the professional world through mock auditions, having talk-backs with artists and learning/being evaluated by current choreographers in the industry. I began auditioning in New York my senior year and was so surprised by how prepared I felt in the room."
Alumni Profile
Kaylin Horgan '11
Point Park dance alumna Kaylin Horgan's work Milton was named Best Virtual Stage Production of 2021 by Pittsburgh City Paper.
Pictured is Kaylin Horgan. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Jeff Gorti '16
"The training I had at Point Park's Conservatory of Performing Arts prepared me for the rigor of real life ... Also, the facilities that you get to train, rehearse and perform in are absolutely incredible. It is truly top of the line."
Pictured is Jeff Gorti.
Alumni Profile
Dara Schlesinger '21
"Point Park University has an amazing dance program. I'm so glad I made the investment to learn and train at one of the top dance programs in the country."
Pictured is Dara Schlesinger. Photo | Jeffery Sabo
Alumni Profile
Jennifer Taormina-Lawson '13
"The classes and faculty at Point Park still impact my work to this day. I interned at Sony Music Entertainment and SAG-AFTRA while in law school, and I know that I was awarded those opportunities because of my undergraduate education and experience. There is no doubt about that."
Alumni Profile
Colin Jacob '15
"Point Park provided the space for me to grow on a technical level, and I also honed my artistic expression in dance. I came out of the program with an understanding of different styles of movement and the way to put myself into them."
Alumni Profile
Carol Mullen '18
"If you're looking for a program that prepares you to do your best writing, challenges you to work hard and continue to get better, this is the right creative home for you."
Pictured is Carol Mullen. Photo | Aimee Obidzinski
Alumni Profile
Dustin Wolf '18
"Point Park’s dance program is unlike anything else. The faculty are phenomenal and give their all to help fulfill every student’s potential. I would not be the dancer or person I am today without them and for that I am so thankful."
Pictured is Dustin Wolf. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Joel Cash '13
"For those trying to get into the industry, it may be difficult at first, but once your foot is in the door, make the most of your opportunity. If you put in the work and stay humble, you will succeed in the industry."
Pictured is Joel Cash. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Kimie Parker '19
"Point Park’s dance facilities are an absolute luxury. I don’t think I’ll have many opportunities to be in studios as expansive or advanced as Point Park’s for the rest of my career."
Pictured is Kimie Parker.
Alumni Profile
Benjamin Mapp '07
Benajamin Mapp received the Audelco Award, following in the footsteps of Denzel Washington, Viola Davis and the Late Chadwick Boseman, among others.
Pictured is Benjamin Mapp. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
Mina Hoffman '18
"The most valuable thing Point Park gave me was a supportive network of people ... Additionally, having the hands-on filmmaking experience was priceless. Knowing set etiquette and general production speak is invaluable even in my role as a marketer."
Pictured is Mina Hoffman. Submitted photo.
Alumni Profile
James (Washington) Manning '11
"The COPA schedule and rigor allowed me to feel prepared to enter the professional field; the versatility and class offerings played a huge part in that. As a student, you are treated and training like a professional dancer."
Alumni Profile
Rianne Lindsey '20
Theatre production alumna Rianne Lindsey '20 received the Altman Lighting Award for her work on Good Grief at the Pittsburgh Playhouse.
Alumni Profile
Alyssa Briddes '16
"Due to the hands-on nature of the program, we all learned on-set etiquette our first year, not just through our professors but through our upperclassmen. Learning how to behave on a set from Point Park has been invaluable during my time here in New York City."
Pictured is Alyssa Briddes. Submitted photo
Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Encore! is Home to Point Park Alumni
Tuesday, August 25, 2020 "During my time at Point Park I had the opportunity to work with choreographers from many different backgrounds. The amount of rehearsal and performance experience I acquired in college allowed for a smooth transition into my professional career."
Alumni Profile
Shawn Lesniak '18
"Because of my training at Point Park, I was able to watch, learn and perform various styles of dance. The faculty did an amazing job at creating a space for aspiring artists like myself to hone their skills and explore, in depth, what it even means to be an artist."
Pictured is Shawn Lesniak. Photo | Bill Wadman
Alumni Profile
Annie Morgan '18
"The faculty recognized my potential and pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of. I felt nurtured and cared for — both as an artist and a human being."
Alumni Profile
Emily Bezbatchenko '18
"Point Park prepared me in the best way possible for company work post-graduation. The training in all styles made the switch between ballet, modern and jazz effortless."
Alumni Profile
Justin Peebles '08
"As for the dancers, I am speechless! No one does it like Point Park University. The dance faculty has trained these dance majors to be so marketable in all fields of the industry. I am very impressed EVERY time I come across a Point Park dancer in my everyday business."
Alumni Profile
James Ogden II '12
Theatre production (stage-management) alumnus James Ogden's resume includes SeaWorld San Antonio, Charlotte Ballet, Martha Graham Dance Company, Elisa Monte Dance, Complexions Contemporary Ballet and Alonzo King LINES Ballet.
Pictured is James Ogden. Photo | Jeff Cravotta
Alumni Profile
Alumna and Former Rockette Eileen Grace Hosts Workshop at Point Park
"As dancers we need to always strive to be better and to continue training with a keen eye. Dedication and commitment are key as well as letting your passion shine through with confidence."
Alumni Profile
Tyler Matylewicz '16
"Your career is purely dependent on your attitude, outlook on life and experiences learned; so soak up as much as you can at Point Park. The program offers you an extremely wide variety of opportunities that prepare you for anything."
Alumni Profile
Andrew Wright '12
"I thrived on the diversity of classes and made sure to continue my training in jazz, modern and ballet throughout my entire time at Point Park. This diversity really helped me to develop a versatility that benefits me to this day," said Andrew Wright, 2012 B.F.A. in dance alumnus.
Pictured is alumnus Andrew Wright. Photo | Hans-Jörg Michel
Alumni Profile
Hannah James '16
Meet 2016 cinema production alumna Hannah James, a video coordinator for Little League International.
Pictured is alumna Hannah James. Submitted photo
Alumni Profile
Gabriel Florentino '18
2018 musical theatre alumnus Gabriel Florentino plays 'Manolin' in the world premiere stage adaptation of "The Old Man and the Sea" at the Pittsburgh Playhouse.
Pictured is alumnus Gabriel Florentino in The Old Man and the Sea. Photo | John Altdorfer
Alumni Profile
Perris Drew '16
2016 theatre alumnus Perris Drew highlights his career as a professional actor and offers career advice to Point Park students.
Pictured is alumnus Perris Drew. Submitted photo
Alumni Profile
Faith Kraynik '17
"My Point Park experience taught me how important collaboration and communication are to a creative production."
Pictured is alumna Faith Kranyak at Universal Studios. Submitted photo
Alumni Profile
Heidi Ward '13
Cinema Arts alumna Heidi Ward - a freelance producer in Los Angeles - won an Emmy for her work on an NBC television show.
Pictured is alumna Heidi (Schlegel) Ward. Submitted photo
Alumni Profile
Caroline Loeser '15
Loeser's first professional dance jobs included the Pepsi Super Bowl LI Halftime Show and the Joanne World Tour with Lady Gaga.
Pictured is Caroline Loeser. Photo | Louise Flores
Alumni Profile
Sloan Pearson '16
"Point Park's dance program set me up for success. I learned how to balance a rigorous schedule, maintain a healthy lifestyle, retain choreography and incorporate my own artistry."
Pictured is Sloan Pearson. Submitted photo
Alumni Profile
Erica Messonnier
"Point Park shaped me into the performer I am today. The school provided me with all the tools I needed to become a professional performer. I am forever grateful for everyone who helped me achieve my dreams."
Pictured is alumna Erica Messonnier. Photo | Erica Messonnier
Theatre Production Alumnus Installs Stage Rigging in New Pittsburgh Playhouse
Friday, September 15, 2017 "Working on Point Park's new Pittsburgh Playhouse is amazing! I worked in the existing Playhouse in Oakland and am very familiar with those theaters. I can only imagine what faculty and students will be able to do in the new Playhouse," said Philip Irvin.
Artistic Producing Director at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center is a Point Park Alumnus
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
Behind the Scenes at WQED Multimedia with Alumni Alisyn Blackwell and Zak Boyle
Friday, August 4, 2017
Alumna Gabriella Sorrentino is a Dance Captain for Hamilton | Broadway in Chicago
Monday, March 20, 2017
Alumni Profile
Sarah Meahl
"When I auditioned for Point Park's musical theatre program, I had a feeling that this was where I was supposed to be. My choice was so simple," said Meahl.
Pictured is alumna Sarah Meahl. Photo | Richard Termine
2016 Musical Theatre Alumnus Peter Hughes is a Mainstage Performer for Disney Cruise Line
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Internship Leads to Position with NBC's American Ninja Warrior for M.F.A. Alumna
Thursday, October 6, 2016 "The M.F.A. program helped open doors for me ... I got my job through my internship, and I wouldn't have gotten my internship without being in the M.F.A. program.”
Alumna Taylor Goska Discovered Dual Passions for Dance and Psychology at Point Park
Wednesday, July 13, 2016 "I had some great professors in both psychology and dance who were truly passionate about what they were teaching me."
M.F.A. Low-Residency Alumnus Alan Stevens is Executive Director of Academy Theatre
Wednesday, May 25, 2016 "I fully believe that joining the M.F.A. program was the best thing I have ever done, it has opened doors for me that I thought would always be closed. I have met amazing writers, made wonderful connections and lifelong friends."
Pictured is Alan Stevens.
Cinema Alumnus Alex Tracy is an Associate Producer at Method Studios in New York City
Friday, January 22, 2016 "I began producing films for Point Park during my first year in the program. That prepared me more than anything."
Dance Alumnus Joshua Manculich Honored With Princess Grace Award
Tuesday, September 15, 2015 "The combination of the major and minor led me to understand people and what movement can do for someone else's sense of well-being."
2013 Alumna Nicole Soriano Lands Leading Role in Berenstain Bears Live! The Musical
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Dance Alumna Alexandra Pernice Performing in North American Tour of Phantom of the Opera
Friday, March 6, 2015 "I'm a huge advocate for Point Park's dance program because it teaches you to stand out and persevere. The program tests your tenacity and when you graduate you are ready to enter the professional dance world."
Sesame Street Live Features Alumnae Alexandra Zegar and Eileen Janesz
Monday, February 23, 2015 Conservatory of Performing Arts alumnae Alexandra Zegar and Eileen Janesz are on tour with Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend. Zegar landed the role of Count Von Count and Janesz plays the role of Elmo.
Alumnus Callan Bergmann Lands Role in Pippin, Hosts Q&A with Theatre Students
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Alumni Profile: Meet Jason Elrod, Editor, MTO Productions
Monday, November 24, 2014 "I'm still surprised that what I learned in my four years at Point Park continues to apply to my daily professional life. The people that attend and teach there have played a major role in getting me to where I am today."
Alumni Profile: Meet Jonathan Joseph, Line Producer on "The Chair" Series
Thursday, November 6, 2014 "Point Park has a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on production. Being on set and having to actually produce a large amount of work while in school really helps to prepare you for real-world production."
Alumni Profile: Meet Rebecca Markuson, Art Department Coordinator, "The Chair" Series
Friday, September 26, 2014 "The cinema program gave me the opportunity to learn a number of different roles and how each of those roles works together to make a film, television show, commercial, etc."
Alumni Profile: Meet Missy Haught, Intern Coordinator, "The Chair" Series
Friday, September 12, 2014 "Point Park was my home and safe haven for four years. I developed a lot of my skills and strengths there, and I think it's really great getting to exercise those creative muscles with my college family."
Alumnus Performing in Tour of West Side Story Hosts Master Class on Campus
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Alumna Maranda Wodzinski is a Production Manager for Nancy Glass Productions
Monday, March 10, 2014 "The education and training I received at Point Park prepared me for the first few steps into the business. We were encouraged to assist upperclassmen and our professors on their projects/films. It was nice to get a taste of what it was like to be on a real set, and it was very beneficial to work side-by-side with our professors in the field."
Alumna is Technical Director at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center
Monday, February 17, 2014
Musical Theatre Alumnus Jaron Frand Credits Point Park for Success On Stage
Friday, November 22, 2013
Point Park Alumni Launch Loose Cannon Creative, a Multimedia Company
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Alumni profile: Kevin James Doyle, Actor, Comedian and Writer
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Alumni Profile: Meet Lauren Garson, Parsons Dance
Monday, July 15, 2013
Alumnus Ian Spring Credits Point Park's Dance Program for Professional Success
Monday, July 15, 2013 "I definitely appreciated the location of Point Park in Downtown Pittsburgh. It was convenient no matter where I was living, be it Downtown Pittsburgh or the South Side. Pittsburgh is still my favorite city in this country."
Houston Metropolitan Dance Company is Home to Six Point Park Alumni
Friday, May 17, 2013 Six Conservatory of Performing Arts alumni are working for Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, a contemporary repertory dance company in Houston, Texas.
2009 Dance Alumnus Luke Murphy Returned to Pittsburgh to Showcase 'Drenched'
Monday, January 7, 2013 "I was really interested in jazz and Point Park's dance program had a great reputation. When I auditioned I was very lucky to be accepted, as the standard of the other dancers was much higher. At the time it seemed like a risk and a challenge."
Point Park Alumna Has Role in 'The Dark Knight Rises'
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Alumni Profile: Jordan Grubb, B.F.A. in musical theatre
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Alumni network pays dividends for actress Ashley Archambeau
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
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