ISU Establishes First-Ever Endowment for Theatre in Honor of Tara Young

Idaho State University has established the Tara Young Faculty Legacy Theatre Fund to honor Tara Young’s 20+ years of mentorship and contributions, providing scholarships for theatre students in need.

Idaho State University (ISU) is proud to announce the establishment of the Tara Young Faculty Legacy Theatre Fund, the first endowment at ISU dedicated to supporting the Department of Theatre. Created in honor of Tara Young, a beloved professor, costume designer, mentor, and leader in the arts, the endowment will provide lasting support for theatre students and productions at ISU.

Young has been a cornerstone of the ISU theatre community since joining the faculty in 2002. She currently serves as Chair and Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance, and has designed costumes for numerous university productions including Pippin, The Country Wife, Macbeth, and Antigone. Her work extends beyond campus to regional theatres such as Theatre by the Sea, First Folio Shakespeare Festival, McLeod Summer Playhouse, and community events across Pocatello.

The announcement of the endowment was made during a surprise celebration at the Stephens Performing Arts Center where colleagues, alumni, students, friends, and community members gathered to honor Young’s incredible impact. Dr. Norm Schroder, Professor Emeritus of Theatre, who served on the committee that hired Young more than 20 years ago, praised her enduring dedication to ISU and its students.

Tara Young and Dr. Norm Schroder

 

The seed gift for the Tara Young Endowment for Theatre was made by Roy F. Miller, a successful developer, retailer, and investor, and supporter of the arts. Miller played drums and vibraphone with top jazz groups in the region, served as the pit drummer for numerous stage productions, and was an integral part of the Idaho State Civic Symphony for over 40 years.

Miller’s deep appreciation for the performing arts and his admiration for Young’s work inspired him to establish a faculty legacy endowment in her name. His $30,000 gift will ensure ongoing scholarships for full-time undergraduate or graduate theatre students in good academic standing, with preference given to those with demonstrated financial need.

Young and Miller greet

 

For students like graduating senior Madysen Stewart, the new endowment is a powerful symbol of the opportunities Young and scholarships help make possible. “Scholarships got me through college,” Stewart said at the celebration. "They’re the only reason I’m still here today. Because of Tara and her mentorship I was able to get so many scholarships that helped me through.” 

Madysen Stewart gives remarks at the celebration

 

Paul Yeates, Associate Professor of Theatre, spoke about Young’s warmth and influence, saying, “When Tara started at ISU, everything was smaller—the community, the theatre, the facilities. Tara arrived at a critical point when a bold vision for the performing arts was beginning. She has always cherished the art form and shared it passionately with the world around her. She’s mentored countless student designers and helped them grow into successful professionals.”

Paul Yeates and Tara Young hug after his remarks

 

All those who give at any level to the Tara Young Faculty Legacy Theatre Fund by April 30 will have their name included on a plaque that will be presented to Young. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact College of Arts and Letters Development Director, Tabitha La Force at (208)282-1404 or lafotabi@isu.edu.

 

To contribute to the Tara Young Endowment:

Give online

or

Mail a check to:

Idaho State University Foundation

921 S. 8th Ave., Stop 8050

Pocatello, ID 83209

Include “Tara Young Endowment” in the memo line.