At USITT, we’re always looking forward to the future of live entertainment. We want to help build the next generation of live entertainment professionals by giving students opportunities to grow! We’re here to help you connect with industry professionals for one-on-one guidance, industry networking, and practical advice you can’t get anywhere else. Check out our list of mentorship programs, and find the one that’s the right fit for you. All applications and nominations are open for the listed opportunities below, so take some time to fill one out and get ready to dive into the next steps of your career!

Gateway Program

Deadline: Oct. 1, 2024

The Gateway program helps elevate students from historically underrepresented communities into the live entertainment field by pairing them with industry-expert mentors during our Annual Conference & Stage Expo. Selected Mentees will not only get one-on-one support from a mentor in their field, but they’ll also be connected with their fellow Gateway cohort for sessions, team-building, and networking opportunities. With a lift-as-you-rise mentality, the Gateway program focuses on building community within the industry by forming lasting relationships, opening the door for networking and professional growth! 

Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship

Deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

USITT’s Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship serves as a bridge to connect emerging professionals interested in a career in nonprofit leadership with current leaders in the theatre and live entertainment industries. The fellowship offers the opportunity to learn new skills that will help our selected Board fellow develop valuable expertise on their journey to arts management. Secure your spot at the table and take part in USITT board discussions to have a real impact on USITT and the world of live entertainment!

Student Engagement Grants

Deadline: Oct. 31, 2024

Calling all aspiring theatre artists and live entertainment technicians! USITT’s Student Engagement Grants are here to fuel your passion and propel your career forward. Dive into groundbreaking projects and elevate your craft with a grant of up to $1,200 to support academic costs! Whether you need the funds for essential research, travel to pivotal conferences, or finalizing a stellar production, these grants are designed to support your journey. Plus, we’ll match you with a professional mentor to guide you!

Stage Management Mentor Project (SMMP)

Deadline: Nov. 7, 2024

SMMP connects professional stage managers with mentees for a week full of practical training experiences at USITT25's most high-profile events! Help run our Annual Conference & Stage Expo and learn the skills you need to build your event management resume. Not only will you get action-based mentorship and guidance from experts in your field, but you'll see firsthand how USITT puts on one of the largest live entertainment gatherings in the country. Network with some of the best in the biz, build your resume, and dive into the professional world of stage management with this one-of-a-kind mentorship program!

USITT25 Conference Assistant Mentorship Program

Deadline: Feb. 1, 2025

Learn the ins and outs of running a live event while attending our Annual Conference & Stage Expo! Conference Assistants work a wide variety of positions at USITT while learning from industry mentors, so we’ll find a role that’s right for you. These positions are highly competitive, so don’t wait to reserve your spot. Apply today and add a few lines to your professional resume while getting to attend USITT25 for $25!