Hired Before Graduation “Where Are They Now?”: Stephanie Staszak

November 20, 2025

When there’s an opportunity to work in theatre and the arts in Wisconsin, it’s a good bet that Stephanie Staszak is taking full advantage of it — much like she did as a student at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in the early 2010s.

Staszak was hired before graduation in May 2013 with one teaching position and two production roles, all touching on what she learned as a theatre major with a double minor in dance and arts management.

More than a decade later, she continues to work in multiple roles to enrich the arts in the Milwaukee area, in the region, and around the nation, using her Warhawk education as a knowledge base.

“I liked having the opportunity as an actor to help to build sets or costumes and gain insights through all the conversations and experiences that came from that,” Staszak said. “I built a skill set and also an appreciation for all the facets that go into putting on theatrical productions.”

Staszak was undecided on a major after choosing UW-Whitewater at the recommendation of several family members who were Warhawks. She was heavily involved in theatre as a student at Greendale High School and chose the major as a sophomore.

Staszak juggled overloaded class schedules — taking 20-24 credits per semester as a junior and senior to complete her major and two minors — and theatre productions, effectively a dress rehearsal for her busy career.

“I had fun in the late hours of working on shows and the tech process, living within the world of theater on every side,” she said.

Staszak has worked as artistic administrator for Skylight Music Theatre in Milwaukee since 2014. Former UW-Whitewater professor Jim Butchart connected her with the local theatre company.

Staszak worked in theatre education for up to five different high schools annually until 2023, and continues to keep busy as an educator, consultant, performer, and choreographer, leaning on a strong network of family and friends during what can be a chaotic lifestyle.

She emphasized the importance of students taking their time to discover what they want to do in their careers.

“You don’t have to rush. If you’re not sure, take that time to find yourself, shop around for jobs, put your feelers out, meet people, make connections,” Staszak said. “In theater specifically, it’s so important to know as many people as possible. A lot of the work is through word of mouth. It isn’t about your talent or skills — it's who you are and what you are like to work with that are huge factors.”

Staszak’s patience and relationship-building — along with her willingness to jump on any opportunity — have allowed her to do what she loves on a daily basis.

“I’ve stayed within the world of performing arts and theater, and I feel very lucky,” she said.”