(Hayward, CA) – Chabot College in Hayward is pleased to announce that one of its professors, Rachel LePell, has been recognized by the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and Association of Theater in Higher Education (ATHE/KCACTF) for innovation in teaching theater. The prize is given to one college faculty member in each of eight regions throughout the United States.

Chabot College also received an award for its commitment to new theater works through its Emerging Works program. The American College Theater Festival, held in Washington, D.C. earlier this year, was the venue for the awards ceremony, which draws from a very competitive field of colleges and universities across the nation for this honor.

“We are extremely proud of Rachel LePell, who has taught at Chabot College for more than 25 years, and the 31 drama students whose work was acknowledged through the award given to the college,” said Chabot College President Dr. Susan Sperling. “They competed against graduates from some of the most competitive and prestigious MFA programs in the nation.”

Emerging Works is one of the distinguishing characteristics of the Theater Arts Department at Chabot College. It highlights the efforts of new original plays that are written by students in a Playwriting class. The Emerging Works program has been underway for more than two decades at Chabot College under the direction of LePell, and features a week of performances staged by student actors, directors, and designers.

About Chabot College
Chabot College, a comprehensive community college, opened its doors in Hayward more than 45 years ago to meet the needs of the East Bay’s growing population. Today it remains the heart of a thriving, diverse community where students of all ages and backgrounds can get a high quality education at an affordable price. The college awards associate degrees and certificates, and specializes in university transfer, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities.