SJRCC Press Release

November 2010


Florida School of the Arts professor honored with career award

Florida School of the Arts professor Ed Kelly was recently honored by the Florida Theatre Conference for his dedication and contributions to college theatre. Each year, the Distinguished Career Award is bestowed in five categories, including Outstanding Contribution to Florida’s College & University Theatre, for which Kelly was recognized.

Kelly’s membership with the Conference includes providing annual workshops for college and high school attendees and more than 20 years of service. Kelly said he was both surprised and flattered to be acknowledged by the FTC Board and his peers. “It is always an honor to be acknowledged by fellow artists and professionals; but I am especially thrilled for Florida School of the Arts and its recognition in this award. The statewide exposure is good for the school and will resonate to a greater degree in attracting new students,” he said. The FTC has awarded the Distinguished Career Awards since 1986. Fellow faculty member Patricia Crotty attended the conference held in Lakeland and introduced Kelly during the ceremony. “Ed Kelly works tirelessly as an educator. He is always thinking about his students,” she said. “During any faculty meeting or season scheduling, his agenda is always focused on the students and their growth and development.”

Kelly’s 24 years with the Florida School of the Arts includes directing more than 50 productions. He serves as a leader with the Florida Theatre Conference and with the Southeastern Theatre Conference. He is a production respondent for the American College Theatre Festival and the Florida Community College Activities Association. Kelly has written articles for “Southern Theatre,” “Theatre Crafts” and “The Chronicle of Higher Education: Chronicle Careers.”

The seasoned actor has performed locally in “Scrooge,” “Cross and Sword,” “You Can’t Take it with You,” and “Look Homeward Angel.”

The FTC is a non-profit, educational theatre organization founded in 1956 that provides programs and services to individuals and group memberships. It serves approximately 25 colleges and universities and encompasses all 67 counties, composed of five divisions: Theatre for Youth, College/University Theatre, Community Theatre, Professional Theatre, and Secondary School Theatre. The FTC serves as a liaison between Florida, regional, and national organizations.