Faculty Member
Amanda is a graduate of The Boston Conservatory where she received her Master of Music in Musical Theater. Her greatest work is in the classroom with the students where teacher and student work as a team to create skills, technique and personalized learning. Amanda works to foster independent thinking and hopes her students will become creative, thoughtful and kind artists. Amanda received a BFA in Music Dance Theater from Brigham Young University, where she also taught for ten years. She has worked professionally in the Utah area and in California. Some of her favorite shows include: Sweeney Todd (Mrs Lovett), Big Fish (Sandra Bloom), Sherlock the Musical (Mrs. Hudson) to name a few. She currently sings with the Tabernacle Choir and music directs in the valley at various theaters. Amanda currently serves as the head of the Musical Theater program at Utah Valley University.
Major: Musical Theater
Major: Music Dance Theater
Musical Theatre Workshop - BFA, Fall 2026
Singing Technique for Actors I - BFA, Fall 2026
Singing Techniques for Actors II-BFA, Fall 2026
Acting for Musical Theatre II - BFA, Spring 2026
Performance Practicum for Stage and Screen, Spring 2026
Singing Technique for Actors I - BFA, Spring 2026
Singing Techniques for Actors II-BFA, Spring 2026
The recognition I received from my department chair for my work as Music Director of Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 was especially meaningful because it acknowledged not only the artistic success of the production but also its educational impact on our students. This project required extensive preparation, including teaching one of the most musically demanding scores in the musical theatre repertoire, recruiting and coordinating a live professional pit orchestra, and mentoring students through a highly challenging rehearsal process. Seeing the students rise to that challenge, perform to sold-out audiences, and receive such positive community response reinforced my belief that students grow most when they are trusted with ambitious artistic opportunities. I was honored that my chair recognized the scope of this work and the dedication required to make it successful, and I view this acknowledgment as a reflection of my commitment to providing transformative learning experiences for our students.
Receiving this recognition was especially meaningful because it acknowledges the impact of my teaching through the success and growth of my students. The comments from my department chair emphasize not only consistent student progress but also the recognition of that growth by casting directors and music directors throughout the region. Knowing that industry professionals can identify the technical and artistic development of students after studying in my studio affirms my commitment to evidence-based vocal pedagogy, individualized instruction, and high expectations. I am particularly grateful that this award recognizes my ability to help students discover their fullest artistic potential and prepare them for successful careers in the performing arts. Ultimately, the greatest measure of my teaching is the success of my students, and this recognition reinforces that commitment.
Presented by the Students and Theatre Artists Guild (TAG) Presidency
This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the highest ideals of a theatre artist, collaborator, and community member. It honors someone whose character is defined by kindness, creativity, integrity, and perseverance, and whose contributions have enriched both the artistic and personal lives of those around them.
The recipient demonstrates a commitment to excellence while fostering a culture of collaboration, generosity, and respect. Through their leadership, artistry, and service to others, they leave a lasting legacy within the Department of Theatrical Arts—one that continues to inspire future generations of students long after their time at Utah Valley University.
The Utah Valley Senior Executive Leadership Forum (UVSELF) is Utah Valley University's premier leadership development program for faculty and staff who demonstrate exceptional potential for leadership and institutional service. Designed as an intensive, year-long professional development experience, UVSELF provides participants with opportunities to explore the complexities of higher education leadership through seminars, discussions, mentorship, and collaboration with members of the University's executive leadership. The program includes a leadership retreat, seminars on topics such as strategic planning, budgeting, governance, legislative affairs, and institutional change, and offers participants direct insight into the University's administrative decision-making processes.
Participating in UVSELF was one of the most transformative professional development experiences of my sabbatical. While the program broadened my understanding of leadership in higher education, its greatest value was the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the complex work required to lead a comprehensive public university. Through discussions with members of the President's Council and other senior administrators, I developed a much deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of university governance, strategic planning, budgeting, legislative advocacy, and institutional decision-making.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the program was learning how Utah Valley University works with the Utah Legislature and how legislative priorities directly influence institutional funding, strategic initiatives, and long-term planning. I gained a much greater understanding of the University's Planning, Budgeting, and Assessment (PBA) process and the careful evaluation required to prioritize resource requests across colleges and divisions. Seeing how difficult it is to balance institutional needs with limited resources gave me a new appreciation for the thoughtful, mission-driven work that goes into determining which initiatives receive funding each year. What once seemed like straightforward budget decisions became much more nuanced as I came to understand the many competing priorities that must be considered in order to serve the University as a whole.
Perhaps the most impactful aspect of the program was the opportunity to build relationships with members of the President's Council and gain a deeper understanding of their leadership. Observing the breadth of issues they navigate—including student success, academic quality, finance, facilities, legislative partnerships, and long-term institutional planning—gave me tremendous respect for the complexity and significance of their work. The experience humanized the University's leadership, allowing me to see not only the challenges they face but also their deep commitment to advancing UVU's mission and supporting its students, faculty, and staff.
UVSELF strengthened my commitment to Utah Valley University and reinforced my desire to contribute to its future. I left the program with a richer understanding of the University's mission, greater confidence in its leadership, and a renewed enthusiasm for serving the institution. The experience has better prepared me for future leadership opportunities and has deepened my investment in the continued growth and success of UVU. I am excited to continue building my career here and to contribute in meaningful ways to the University's future.
