Sorry it's taken me so long to get back to topic but I left one show and started another and just now heard back from the AEA Representative Amy Dolan. Here is her reply...
Hello All,
As the National Education and Outreach Coordinator, I have been charged
with the tremendous task of getting the word out to students/future members
about AEA. I use a variety of methods of outreach and am always looking to
incorporate new ideas. In addition to visiting as many Universities as possible,
I also attend conferences including USITT and several of the regional Kennedy Center American College Theater Festivals. I make sure to connect with our liaisons in order to get them involved if I am in their city but during other times as well. I maintain the brochures so that we have information readily available and I encourage everyone to contact me if they will be speaking to students, New Members or EMC's so I can provide them with materials and talking points. I am limited only by time, getting invitations (although I do contact schools myself) and not enough members knowing that I am available to help and that they could help me with introductions to educators across the country. I aspire to create a strong National team to help the outreach office in it's mission.
So, about the message. My power point presentation includes the history of
the union, how it works, member responsibilities and a Q and A section. My
introduction explains that I am not there to recruit them, quite the contrary, I want them to have all the information they can so that when they do get the opportunity to join they can make an educated decision. I explain that it is a difficult, personal and lasting decision that should not be made lightly. I explore with them all the ways they can inform their decision, whether it be the EMC program, conversations with members, research etc.
I am thrilled that educators and members see the importance of student outreach and we are making a difference. Thank you so much for your input
and give a call anytime.
All the Best,
Amy Dolan Fletcher
National Education and Outreach Coordinator
Actors' Equity Association
165 W. 46th Street
16th Floor
New York, NY 10036
(212) 869-8530 ext. 42