When examining campus culture, we often focus on student activities. Of course, that is a large piece of the puzzle, but there are many other contributors. Last semester we highlighted local business’ impact, this semester, we will be examining how the professors on campus contribute to our community!
This week, I talked with Danielle Barre, an adjunct Lecturer in Theatre/Fine Arts. I got an introduction to what students think of her through Makenna Keith, a sophomore who is starting her third class with Barre. As she said, Barre “is an exceptional instructor that really strives to make an environment where everyone can grow and prosper. She has a way of building a community that truly supports her students.”
Q: How did you come to work in your field?
A: I’ve been involved in theatre from a young age, but the first time I was actually paid for theatre work was in college. I was an undergrad theatre performance major in a program where equity actors and grad students got the majority of roles. So, I started auditioning outside of the program whenever I wasn’t in a show. It worked out really well for me! That’s also how I got my first theatre teaching gig. I auditioned for the Missoula Children’s Theatre in my final semester and started touring with them the day after I graduated. I directed, performed with, and taught kids ages 5-18 in a new town each week across the US for the next year. It was amazing!
Q: How long have you been at Roanoke, and how did you come to be here?
A: I’ve been fortunate to teach here for the last four years. I moved here with my family in 2018 when my husband, Nelson Barre, took a position here at RC!
Q: What’s your favorite part of your work, and what’s the most challenging?
A: The students are the best part of the job—working with them, helping them grow and learn, and watching them come into their own is the best. My biggest challenge is work-life balance. Because I’m passionate about this work and want to help in any way I can, it can be hard to say no sometimes!
Q: What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned since coming to work here?
A: I love working with college students! They are the absolute GOAT, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
Q: What’s your advice to Roanoke College students?
A: It’s okay if you don’t have it all figured out. Just take a deep breath and smile. You’re doing great. =)
Maggie Raker
Section Editor
