Timothy C. Simons
University of Maine Theatre, Class of 2001
‘Jonah’ on HBO’s VEEP
‘Marx’ in Draft Day
‘Malcolm’ in The Interview
‘Agent Borderline’ in Inherent Vice
Dear Fellow University of Maine Theatre Alum:
Yes, this is a fundraising appeal, but please bear with me. Before I was making a living as an actor in film and television; before I worked in small theatres in Chicago; before I interned at a children’s theatre in Kentucky;I was a student of Dr. Sandra Hardy’s. If you were around the Theatre program at UMaine any time in the last few decades, you probably were, too. Sandra was an integral part of my experience in college, as an actor, and as a human being. As you may know, Sandra retired recently and sadly, passed away soon thereafter. Upon her retirement, I joined a group of former students to establish the Sandra E. Hardy Theatre Scholarship Fund at the University of Maine Foundation to encourage student participation in theatre – both at the University and professionally as well. The hope is that former students and theatre friends will give generously to this fund in Sandra’s memory so that future generations of students can gather some of the knowledge and experience that Sandra shared with us.
One of the best parts about the creation of the scholarship is that we are getting close to reaching our $12,500 goal which will be matched with an additional 25% by the University of Maine Foundation if they are paid by December 31, 2017 – even more reason to remember Sandra in this way, and of course we expect to exceed our goal!
I was so happy to have been a part of the memorial celebration of Sandra’s life. I was able to see Hauck Auditorium, the Pavilion, and the Class of ’44 Hall, all these years later – places where Sandra pushed me to be better, work harder, and not be “a nothing-burger”. Sandra always demanded the best from every actor, crew member, and student she ever had – she knew how to get it, too. I am constantly thankful for her guidance as I now make my way as a professional actor, doing what I love to do. I know I am better because of her help.
You will remember that Sandra was always building ensembles and did her best to foster camaraderie and fellowship in her productions. I hope you will consider joining our ensemble to remember Sandra by donating to the future of UMaine Theatre in her name. Please give what you can whether it be a single gift or a pledge over time. Your gift can be processed immediately by using the donate now link on this page.
Thank you!
Tim
