February proved to be a memorable month for Lauren Slawson. While preparing for her final appearance in a Boot and Buskin production (“These Shining Lives”), she received word that she had been hired to teach first-grade students in New York City.
“It was quite gratifying to know that my hard work had paid off,” Slawson said. “Everything I’ve learned I can apply to the real world. The real big, scary world.”
Nonetheless, Slawson, a senior English and theater double major with a concentration in education, was thrilled about the news. She hopes to eventually do something that will combine her love of education with her love of theater.
“I’ve had thoughts about maybe starting a theater school,” Slawson explained. “I’m trying to bring what I’ve learned onstage and offstage outside of Le Moyne. I want to let everyone see what I can do.”
Slawson, serving as the executive director of Boot and Buskin this year, has always had a major presence at the Performing Arts Center. In addition to her work in numerous Boot and Buskin and Major Arcana shows, Slawson was the activities coordinator for Boot and Buskin her junior year and has been the technical coordinator of the Le Moyne Student Dance Company for two years.
“During the show, it’s hectic,” she said, “but it’s great to work with my friends onstage and behind the scenes.”
Slawson’s position as executive director proved to be both exhilarating and challenging for many reasons including, the departure of PAC manager Kristi McKay and the influx of a handful of new students.
“There have been so many changes to the building,” Slawson said. “But to be a part of that and work with students and faculty is so fun and exciting. It’s great to see what everyone comes up with or to start a project and see how it comes out.”
It seems she has nothing but praise for both the PAC and her time at Le Moyne.
“I could not have asked for a better four years,” Slawson said. “The people I’ve met and worked with are great. The PAC gives me room to grow and the push to do whatever I want to do. It makes me realize I can do anything I set my mind to.
“I’ll miss the community aspect,” Slawson continued. “Everyone is there for you and willing to help you. That sort of feeling is hard to find elsewhere.”
