Student Stories

Students inspired to push the boundaries of musical genres at two-day residency

Renowned vocalist Melissa Foster visited the Peck School of the Arts for a two-day residency last month as part of a growing effort to diversify the vocal stylings and teachings at PSOA. Foster’s expertise ranges across genres that vocal students do not always get to work with. During the two-day residency, she led workshops and taught lectures on Motown, disco, rap, musical theatre, and more, to expose students to contemporary commercial music.

Partnership with Kesslers Diamonds results in one-of-a-kind pieces and experiences

For the past five years, UWM students studying jewelry and metalsmithing have gained career-defining experience thanks to a multifaceted partnership between Kesslers Diamonds and the Peck School of the Arts. Kesslers provides expensive materials and equipment, three scholarships each year, and exclusive availability to internships with the Wisconsin-based and employee-owned company. At a time when goldsmiths are difficult to come by, Kesslers benefits from an expanding pool of talent already familiar with their business practices. 

Artwork by PSOA student makes Panther Pale Ale stand out

In fall the of 2023, UWM collaborated with Pilot Project Brewing and partners to release Panther Pale Ale, a new product available at UWM home games and in retailers throughout Milwaukee. A major factor that sets the beverage apart from other ales on the market today is the vivid art featured on every can. The striking design is by Gisselle Dominguez, a senior design and visual communication student from Waukesha.

Music Education student Adam LuMaye recognized with Richard G. Gaarder Award

Music Education student and saxophonist Adam LuMaye was recently awarded the Richard G. Gaarder Award at this year’s Wisconsin Music Educators Association conference. The achievement recognizes excellence in leadership, musicianship, and service to the music education community. Receiving the award helped Adam reflect on his legacy: “I want to leave a lasting effect on my students and the music community.”   

Theatre student Lillian Hayward explores the hidden world of dramaturgy

Peck School of the Arts helps students explore a variety of arts-based subjects, including some that are somewhat obscure in the day-to-day world. Lillian Hayward, a theatre student, is exploring dramaturgy. Recently, Hayward explained dramaturgy and how this special type of theatrical research makes productions feel more realistic. Hayward served as dramaturg for the Department of Theatre’s productions of The Moors and Macbeth.

Film and Animation alumni, faculty, and staff represented in screenings around the world

From current graduate students to esteemed alumni and faculty members, the Peck School of the Arts Department of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres was well represented on the international film festival circuit this Fall. We’re excited to showcase the achievements of some of our very own who are currently screening their works across the globe.

Dance MFA student Elisabeth Roskopf featured on Creating Milwaukee series

Peck School of the Arts graduate student and lecturer Elisabeth Roskopf was featured in a recent episode of No Studios’ mini-documentary series Creating Milwaukee. The series showcases artists and creatives throughout Milwaukee, celebrating their work and how it connects to their community.

PSOA students are supported by dedicated staff and tailored resources through arts career community

Dozens of students from the Peck School of the Arts attended a special networking event designed specifically for aspiring artists and creative entrepreneurs. The event, which took place at the Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) in Milwaukee’s Third Ward neighborhood, drew students from each of the school’s visual and performing arts departments. The collaborative event is one example of how UW-Milwaukee is addressing a need for industry-specific career support, including arts disciplines that are often overlooked by career services at other institutions.

PSOA Student Recognized by TMJ4 as one of the Best Classical Guitarists in the World

“He’s one of the best guitarists in the world right now. I’m talking about from all generations to young generations to my generation. He’s definitely one of the best,” Rene Izquierdo, a professor of guitar at UW-Milwaukee’s Peck School of the Arts, told TMJ4 in a feature about graduate student Kevin Lo.

MKE Black Theatre Festival Featured Immense Talent from PSOA 

For three weeks in August, the MKE Black Theatre Festival immersed Milwaukee in a celebration of culture and creativity spanning full-productions, staged readings, masterclasses, artist panels and more, all highlighting the vibrant Black arts scene in Milwaukee.  The festival has …

Studying Opera Abroad in Lucca, Italy

Scotlyn Haverkorn, a junior studying Vocal Performance at PSOA, is about to embark on an exciting adventure to Lucca, Italy, for a summer intensive opera program.

Diverse Perspectives, Remarkable Films: PSOA’s Impact at Milwaukee Film Festival

The Milwaukee Film Festival recently concluded, and the UW-Milwaukee Peck School of the Arts has much to celebrate. With a longstanding relationship with the festival, the talented students, faculty, and alumni from the Peck School showcased their passion, organized compelling programs, and worked tirelessly behind the scenes to contribute to the festival’s success.