The College of Fine Arts is proud to celebrate an exceptional group of graduates from the class of 2026. This year’s senior spotlight features students from across the arts reflecting on their experiences at TCU, the opportunities that shaped their growth and the next steps they are preparing to take after graduation. 

Henry Cawood
BFA Theatre

How has your experience in the College of Fine Arts prepared you for your next step?
TCU’s College of Fine Arts has been instrumental in my professional and artistic growth by providing hands-on creative opportunities supported by talented faculty and collaborative peers. The TCU community encouraged me to take on leadership roles, develop my artistic voice and learn from others in similar positions. As a result, I feel prepared to move forward with confidence in leading teams and communicating my artistic vision.

What has been a highlight or defining moment during your time at TCU?
It is difficult to choose just one defining moment because there have been so many highlights throughout my four years at TCU. What makes Theatre special is the opportunity to study theatre within a broader university environment. I think about football games, student organization involvement, late nights in the commons with friends and the core classes outside my major that became some of my favorites. I cannot help but feel grateful for the broad range of experiences that TCU provided.

What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited about next?
This fall, I will begin pursuing my MFA in costume design at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale. I am excited to continue my theatrical studies in a more specialized setting while remaining close to the artistic community in New York City, where many TCU alumni are based. 
 

Emery Gray
BFA Musical Theatre

How has your experience in the College of Fine Arts prepared you for your next step?
My experience in the College of Fine Arts has given me many incredible opportunities while also encouraging me to create my own and pursue leadership roles. Through both challenges and successes, I have developed a sense of confidence that will be invaluable as I take my next steps after graduation.

What has been a highlight or defining moment during your time at TCU?
Every production I have been part of at TCU will always hold a special place in my heart. Another highlight was serving as a facilitator for Frog Camp in Iceland, which became one of the most memorable experiences of my time at TCU.

What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited about next?
After graduation, I will perform as Hope Cladwell in Urinetown at Uptown Players in Dallas before moving to New York City to continue pursuing theatre. 
 

Sam Illum
BFA Musical Theatre

How has your experience in the College of Fine Arts prepared you for your next step?
The College of Fine Arts has prepared me by giving me the knowledge, motivation, and hands-on experience to excel in my field.

What has been a highlight or defining moment during your time at TCU?  
My college highlight has always been watching my best friends grow in performance and as people. It has been a joy watching them achieve things they once thought impossible.

What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited about next?  
I will be performing at Anakeesta Adventure Park in Tennessee over the summer. After that I plan to move to New York City and continue to grow as an actor and as an apathetic leader in my community. 
 

Riley Nowicki
BFA Theatre - Acting

How has your experience in the College of Fine Arts prepared you for your next step?
The College of Fine Arts has given me leadership opportunities that I never would have thought possible before coming to college. I did not serve in many leadership roles before TCU, but the College challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and take on those responsibilities. The department has shown me how to be a strong leader and resource for others. That experience has prepared me for post-graduation life because I have become more adaptable and confident taking on new challenges in a professional setting.

What has been a highlight or defining moment during your time at TCU?
A highlight has been serving as president of Alpha Psi Omega. This organization has meant so much to me during my time at TCU. It became a home for me when my real home felt thousands of miles away. Seeing new members join the organization and find that same sense of belonging reminded me why APO is so special. Serving as president has been incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity.

What are your plans after graduation, and what are you most excited about next?
After graduation, I will intern at a real estate office in my hometown in Florida while continuing to audition and apply for professional theatre opportunities. I plan to move to New York City in October to pursue a career in theatre and voice-over work.