ISU Welcomes Two New Theatre and Dance Faculty Members

Idaho State University is welcoming two new faculty members, Jef J. Petersen and Chad Rodgers, who will be joining the Department of Theatre and Dance. 

Petersen will be taking on the role of Assistant Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and an impressive portfolio of work in the field of theatre arts. 

"I am honored and elated to be joining the brilliant and generous theatre faculty at Idaho State University, and I am so excited to work with the exceptionally talented and passionate students of ISU," said Petersen. 

Petersen's journey in the world of academia began as Adjunct Instructor of Theatre at the College of Western Idaho in 2011, and since then, he has held various teaching positions at Lewis-Clark State College. During his tenure, he has taught theatre arts, directing, writing, and acting.

Petersen's educational achievements include a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Directing and Dramatic Writing from the University of Idaho, and a Master of Arts (MA) in Theatre and Playwriting Pedagogy from the University of Oregon. 

His contributions to the field have earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious KCACTF David Mark Cohen Playwriting Award for his play Emme and the Taking of the Woods, as well as the KCACTF Certificates of Merit for outstanding directing, playwriting, and acting. Petersen's diverse expertise in directing and dramatic writing promises to bring a fresh perspective to ISU's theatre productions.

Rodgers will be joining ISU as an Assistant Lecturer and Technical Director/Production Manager in the Department of Theatre and Dance. His strong background in technical production and experience as a teacher makes him an ideal addition to the department.

Rodgers holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theatre with a major in Technical Production from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His career includes valuable contributions to various professional theatre organizations, such as PlayMakers Repertory Company and Cape Fear Regional Theatre. Rodgers' technical direction credits at Oregon State University showcase his capability in managing successful productions.

Furthermore, his teaching positions at Oregon State University, Oklahoma State University, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Century High School in Pocatello illustrate his passion for passing on his knowledge to the next generation of theatre enthusiasts.

Rodgers' expertise extends to scenic design work and various types of productions, from high school plays to Shakespearean performances.