The office of academics announced this week that the music and theatre academic programs will continue beyond the current academic year.

While activities within performing arts, such as choirs, private lessons and theatre productions have always been a part of the college’s long-term plans, the music and theatre academic programs were initially included in the program closures announced in November. Hesston College’s administrative council has since worked with directors of both programs to collaboratively identify a sustainable plan for course offerings and sequencing, allowing the music and theatre academic programs to continue beyond the 2023-24 academic year.

“We’re always looking for ways to enhance the student experience,” says Dr. Ross Peterson-Veatch, Hesston College’s interim president. “Continuation of the theatre and music programs will provide our students with outlets for creativity that will complement their academic journeys, no matter what field of study they choose to pursue.”

These course offerings will not affect the restructuring layoffs within academics announced in November, which included one music faculty member and one theatre faculty member.