Fannie Hicklin Scholarship Endowment for Theatre Education

Fannie Hicklin

Dr. Fannie Hicklin held the positions of teacher, director and administrator during her 24 years at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.  In 1964, she became the university’s first African-American faculty member.  During her career at UW-Whitewater Dr. Hicklin directed more than 50 theatre productions and initiated both the summer Theatre-in-the-Park and the Touring Children’s Theatre programs.  She also served as the Associate Dean of Faculties and the Chair of the Theatre/Dance Department. 

In 1970, Dr. Hicklin received the W.P. Roseman Excellence in Teaching Award, UW-Whitewater’s most prestigious teaching award.  Other awards included the Life Service Award for Meritorious Service and Outstanding Contributions to Theatre in Wisconsin, and the Woman of Distinction Award.  Dr. Hicklin’s contributions have reached far beyond UW-Whitewater, as she has been involved in many community-based activities including the Review Board of St. Mary’s Health Center in Madison, and as President and member of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin Board of Curators.

The Fannie Hicklin Scholarship Endowment is awarded annually to well-rounded Theatre Education majors.