The Third Annual Faculty Talent Show, sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences as well as the College of Education and Human Services, took place in the Pirates Cove on Thursday, March 20. Students were entertained for the night by a series of performances put on by many of their exceptionally talented professors. Past shows have featured many faculty members from the university presenting anything from comedy routines to even singing opera. In addition to the entertainment, all the proceeds from the event go to a charity in need.
The presentations varied in many forms of entertainment, from ska and jazz drumming all the way to a fully-done theatrical rendition of the immortal David Bowie. English Professor, Dr. Mary Balkun, the organizer of the event, was thoroughly impressed with how successful some of the performances were.
"We didn't know the people we worked with had this kind of talent." Balkun said.
Dr. Debra Zinicola, another one of the organizers, agreed; "You see a side of people that you normally wouldn't see otherwise."
Both Professors said they highly encourage anyone to come out and enjoy the event next year.
Many students were entertained by the enthusiasm and dedication that accompanied many of the professors' talents.
"It was so cute," sophomore Danielle Gruskiewicz said. "I was really surprised at how musically gifted they were."
While some came in ready and expecting the event, others simply decided to stop by the cove and received a pleasant surprise.
"At first I was kind of confused at what was going on... but it was so good," freshman Madeleine Hillyer said. "I was shocked, Dan Yates was amazing."
While many students often see professors teach and excel in their fields of study in the classroom, it is seldom that they have the opportunity to really catch a glimpse into areas of their other talents, and this event really creates that opportunity. Working alongside Dove, past events helped raise almost $500 dollars for the Maison Fortune Orphanage in Haiti, as well as $450 dollars for Catholic Charities Newark. This year all the proceeds will be going towards aiding the Alpha Boys School and Orphanage in Jamaica. Anyone who would still like to donate are more than welcome and encouraged to by contacting Mary Balkun at mary.balkun@shu.edu.
Abbas Khan Cook can be reached at abbas.khancook@student.shu.edu.
