The program highlights the breadth of scholarly and creative achievement across the university, with featured publications also available through the .

New this year, the event will include “Lightning Talks,” offering brief presentations from invited colleagues who will share insights into their recent work and creative processes. In addition, live music performed by students will provide an engaging backdrop to the afternoon.

Desserts and coffee will be served.

The College of the Arts and associated community will be represented by a selection of faculty and staff whose recent publications and creative works exemplify the innovation and impact of the university’s arts community. Feature faculty are listed below, and listed within

• Marissa Rothkopf Bates
• Camen Cicero
• Julian Costa
• Corey Ann Haydu
• Aaron Helgeson
• Bryan Powell
• Marissa Silverman
• Nasim Niknafs
• Jaime Parker Stickle
• Suzanne M. Trauth
• Michael Viega
• Andeline dos Santos
• Barbara L. Wheeler
• Maxine Steinman

This year’s theme, A Moment in Time, explores the profound idea that time is a constant force of movement and change. The show is designed to be a space of “distortion and discovery,” inviting the audience to step out of their daily routines to pause and appreciate the unique creativity unfolding before them. From the foundational techniques of introductory courses to the complex silhouettes of advanced draping, the runway will reflect a wide range of styles that challenge and redefine contemporary fashion.

Behind the scenes, the event is a masterclass in professional execution, produced and promoted by the class under the guidance of Professor Seth Howard. These students are responsible for the intricate orchestration of the show, gaining hands-on experience in event management, marketing, and the fast-paced world of fashion production. The runway will feature works from a diverse group of creators, including students from:

• ARTX 120: Intro to Apparel Construction
• ARTX 226: Intermediate Apparel Construction
• ARTX 322: Flat Pattern
• ARTX 422: Draping
• Independent Designers

In a significant addition to this year’s program, the show will debut a special collaboration with Rocky’s Closet, a ÌÇÐÄvlog initiative that provides free professional attire to students. A dedicated segment of the show will feature curated looks styled entirely from Rocky’s Closet merchandise. This partnership highlights the university’s commitment to accessibility and demonstrates that professional style is achievable for every student.

The stakes for the evening are high, as a panel of three distinguished industry professionals will serve as the year’s juried judges:

• James Volpe – Principal of White Sneaker Consulting
• Jenni Lee – Fashion Stylist & Brand Consultant
• Utkarsh Gupta – Assistant Product Developer & Designer at Golden Touch (Private Label & Walmart Specialist)

In addition to awards granted by the judges for design excellence, the evening will also see the presentation of academic scholarships to talented students within the College of the Arts, celebrating their hard work both on the runway and in the classroom.

A Moment in Time will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Memorial Auditorium on the ÌÇÐÄvlog campus. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the show commencing at 6:00 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are available for $12, or can be purchased at the door for $15.

Accompanied by Professor A. T. Pratt, students from the Products and Zines course participated in the festival, held March 28 and 29 at the Metropolitan Pavilion and hosted by the Society of Illustrators. Now in its fifth year under Professor Pratt’s leadership, the course’s presence at MoCCA has become a hallmark experiential learning opportunity within the department.

Throughout the weekend, students independently ran their own exhibition table, presenting and selling original work to a large and engaged audience. Their offerings included comics, zines, prints, stickers, T-shirts, and handmade objects, many of which sold attendees eagerly supported emerging artists. This direct interaction with the public gave students invaluable real world experience in marketing, audience engagement, and creative entrepreneurship.

The 2026 festival drew thousands of artists, publishers, and fans, reinforcing its reputation as the city’s largest independent comics and cartoon event. For Montclair students, the experience extended beyond sales. It was an opportunity to network with industry professionals, observe current trends in illustration and publishing, and situate their work within a broader creative community.

Over the past two years, the Products and Zines course has seen significant growth, expanding to three sections. In addition to Professor Pratt, this year’s sections were also taught by Professors Andre L Davis and Anthony Gambino, allowing for increased student participation and a larger presence at the festival.

The department also celebrates Professor Pratt’s individual achievement at this year’s festival. He was one of only fifteen artists to receive a MoCCA Award of Excellence for his comic Action Baby Comics: Animal Alphabet, a prestigious recognition highlighting outstanding work in the field.

Participating students included Angel Rodriguez, Ashley Ortiz Tovar, Justinee Massabny, Kelsey Ayala, Liany Sanchez, Jerusa Larancuent, Jazmin Gamboa, Jailynn Winn, Hailey Amanna, Abubacar Keita, Alana Schwartz, Alexa D’Alessandro, Amelie Barritas, Arianny Matos, Camila Pena Marte, Celeste Nova, Cyan Villar, Gavin Kisla, Elias Galdamez, Kaden Zofrea, Katherine Nicholas, Kimberly Peralta, Liz Seidemann, Maura Mayfield, Melissa Aydogan, Nate Quintero, Pauline Magos, Sean Wall, Simone Lino, and Skyla Vera.

The Department of Art and Design is incredibly proud of these students for their professionalism, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Their success at MoCCA reflects the strength of Montclair’s commitment to hands-on, career focused learning experiences that prepare students to thrive in the evolving landscape of contemporary art and design.

Photo by Christian Pajaro

The evening opened with Safe Harbor, a collaborative work by and . Developed through the fellowship, the piece blended fluid movement with an emotionally grounded tone, evoke a sense of transition. The dancers balanced precision with vulnerability, drawing the audience into a reflective, almost dreamlike environment.

In What Holds Us Together, choreographer turned inward, examining human relationships through intimate partnering and subtle gesture. The work emphasized trust and interdependence, with dancers moving in ways that suggested invisible bonds connecting them. The staging allowed the emotional nuance of the choreography to take center stage.

A sharp shift in tone came with State of Emergency, a high-energy world premiere by . Infused with hip-hop and street dance styles, the piece energized the program with bold theatricality and a vibrant musical mix featuring artists like Tyler, the Creator and Childish Gambino. Each dancer brought a distinct voice to the stage, underscoring themes of individuality and empowerment.

The program also featured excerpts from Moonlight Parade by , a visually rich and musically intricate work. Layered choreography and precise timing created striking stage patterns, while moments of fluidity and tension showcased both ensemble unity and individual artistry.

Taken together, Spring Dance 2026 offered a compelling snapshot of contemporary dance today, blending genres, perspectives, and emotional tones. Through innovative choreography and strong performances, ÌÇÐÄvlog’s dancers demonstrated not only technical excellence but also a deep commitment to storytelling through movement.

What unfolded throughout the week was nothing short of unforgettable. The atmosphere was grounded in culture, mentorship, and purpose, as panelists and attendees reflected on the extraordinary career of Freddie Leiba and the countless lives he has impacted. His legacy is defined not only by professional achievement, but by his commitment to opening doors, creating opportunity, and using fashion as a platform for empowerment and lasting change.

The discussion offered a powerful reminder that fashion history extends far beyond garments and trends. It is rooted in people, leadership, and the meaningful impact individuals leave behind. Through his vision and dedication to mentorship, Leiba has influenced fashion in ways that reach into culture, education, and access for emerging creatives.

The space itself was filled with a palpable sense of gratitude, love, and collective respect, reflecting the vibrant community Leiba has cultivated over the years. To witness and participate in honoring a living legacy was a profound experience for all involved.

Special thanks are extended to Neva Palmer, a ÌÇÐÄvlog student, for attending and supporting the event. Her presence underscores the importance of bridging education, culture, and industry, and highlights the role students play in carrying these legacies forward.

With immense gratitude, Professor Panchu celebrates the life, leadership, and enduring impact of Freddie Leiba, a visionary whose work continues to inspire and shape future generations in fashion and beyond.
For more information about The Fashion Alliance Network, please visit .

Graduating summa cum laude in 2024 with a BFA in Musical Theatre and a minor in Environmental Justice, Caroline was also a member of the Honors Program, and an active performer during her time at Montclair.

A Day in the Life of a Performer

“While it depends on the type of show I am doing, the most important thing I must do is ensure I get enough sleep after a late performance,” Caroline says. Her performance days will then start with hydrating with plenty of water, drinking a hot beverage and utilizing a vocal steamer, rolling out muscle areas of tension, eating a protein-packed meal to boost energy, and getting in a workout to align her body physically for the day.

On two-show days, that preparation intensifies: “After my workout I’ll do a vocal warm-up while putting my hair in wig preparation before I head to the theatre,” she explains. “Once at the theatre, I’ll then do a proper physical warm-up, finish perfecting my stage makeup, put on my microphone, wig, and costume, and complete whatever other tasks I have deemed necessary to guarantee I am ready for that specific show.”

Many of these habits were shaped during her time at Montclair. “These daily practices have been developed through the lessons I learned from my professors” she says, including Eren Sevasti, Lisa Harvie, Mark Hardy, and Sharon Milanese.

Outside of performance, she makes time to explore. “If I only have one evening performance, I love to utilize my time exploring whatever city I am in,” she says. “It is important to me to make wherever I am living for a particular contract feels as much like home as possible.”

As Anytime Annie in 42nd Street – Shaffer Photography

Building a Career

“My training in the Department of Theatre and Dance at ÌÇÐÄvlog was instrumental in establishing the career I now have,” Caroline says. “I found my voice in ways I couldn’t have even imagined.”

She credits Peter Flynn with helping her grow as an actor and collaborator, while her studies in the John J. Cali School of Music strengthened her musicianship. Daily ballet classes alongside dance majors refined her technique, while Clay James and Lori McCann helped her develop her voice as a choreographer. Her work assisting Mark Hardy with Musical Theatre auditions strengthened her confidence as a leader.

The Power of Connection

For Caroline, one of the most meaningful parts of her journey has been seeing how college relationships evolve over time. “It is a wildly exciting and rewarding thing to witness how the connections you make in college blossom into consistent working relationships in the industry,” she says.

But she emphasizes that success goes beyond networking. “It’s not just about who you know; it’s about being a kind, hard-working, collaborative individual who fosters professional relationship through being a dependable artist.”

Caroline Lynch Desmarais with John Kearney (’27) and Chase Fontenot (’23). They performed in 42nd Street at The Lexington Theatre Company together in the summer of 2025. Caroline and Chase were the Co-Dance Captains.

Advice for Students

Her advice to current students it to embrace every moment of their time at Montclair. “Enjoy this time to grow and learn about yourself as both a human and performing artist,” she says. “Soak up the time you have…because the time will fly.”

She also encourages students to explore beyond their primary field of study. “Take advantage of all of the academic pursuits beyond the realm of the arts,” she says. “It will only enrich your wealth of knowledge as an artist.”

Story by Web and Digital Media Manager Alexandra Thelin Blackowski

, baritone (Music Education ’16; Performer’s Certificate in Voice ’22), who studied under esteemed voice teacher Karen Driscoll, takes on the pivotal role of Olin Blitch. A commanding presence both vocally and dramatically, Zacher brings depth and intensity to the complex revivalist preacher, marking an important professional milestone in his burgeoning operatic career.

Joining him on the Sarasota stage is , tenor (BFA in Musical Theatre ’12), who studied with Peter Stewart. Brauner performs the role of Sam Polk, adding to his growing list of professional credits with this role debut appearance. His transition from musical theatre training to operatic performance highlights the versatility and strong foundational training he developed at Montclair. This marks Brauner’s 4th season at Sarasota Opera (2013, 2024, 2025, 2026).

Composed by Carlisle Floyd, Susannah remains one of the most frequently performed American operas, celebrated for its emotional intensity and distinctly American musical voice. The Sarasota Opera production showcases both alumni in a work that demands dramatic nuance and vocal strength.

From campus to prominent professional stages, ÌÇÐÄvlog graduates continue to build distinguished careers across the field. Zacher and Brauner’s Sarasota Opera role debuts underscore the excellence of Montclair’s vocal and musical theatre programs and the enduring mentorship of its faculty.

Fanning earned her BFA from Pratt Institute and her MFA from ÌÇÐÄvlog. She teaches Perceptual Drawing and Figure Drawing, specializing in instruction that spans introductory to advance drawing practices, including both general and figure drawing. The fellowship supports the creation of new work and advances the professional careers of New Jersey artists selected solely on artistic merit.

Story by Web and Digital Media Manager Alexandra Thelin Blackowski

The center of the night was , one of today’s most celebrated musical theater artists. An ultimate multi-hyphenate – composer, lyricist, conductor, arranger, orchestrator, director and performer – Brown is best known for his dazzling and emotionally resonant scores for some of the most renowned musicals of our time, including The Last Five Years, Songs for a New World, and Parade.

Performing as a solist and alongside his band: Hidayat Honari (guitar), Sam Minaie (bass), (drums), and (woodwinds), Brown guided the audience through an intimate musical journey. Between songs, he shared candid insights into his creative process, the stories behind the music, and moments from his career, creating a conversational atmosphere that made the evening feel personal and inviting.

Selections from The Last Five Years, including “Shiksa Goddess” and “I Can Do Better Than That,” were met with enthusiastic applause, while “Mary Mallon,” a haunting, self-proclaimed murder ballad written during isolation in Brown’s New York City apartment during the COVID-19 pandemic, offered a stark and reflective contrast. The program also included “Shed Shack” from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, songs from The Connector and Parade, and original works, showcasing the breadth and evolution of his artistry.

The evening featured powerful performances by vocalists Ashley Perez Flanagan and , both Broadway performers whose voices brought depth, nuance, and clarity to Brown’s songs. Brown’s warmth, quick wit, and natural rapport with the audience were evident throughout the night. At moments, the crowd clapped and sang along; at others there was a shared stillness.

Brown had a solo debut at Carnegie Hall in 2024 and a sold-out appearance at the London Palladium with Cynthia Erivo, and brought the same caliber of artistry to this intimate setting. At the end, it was clear that this was a shared experience that reminded the audience why live music, storytelling, and human connection matter now more than ever.

Story by Web and Digital Media Manager Alexandra Thelin Blackowski

Students can play modern board games and dive into immersive VR experiences.

Faculty can incorporate games across disciplines to support critical thinking, collaboration, storytelling, systems analysis, and experiential learning. The Game Hub supports course integration, project-based work, and experimentation with game-based and game-informed pedagogy, whether for a single class session or an entire course.

The Game Hub is an extension of Livia Alexander’s research, which was completed as part of ÌÇÐÄvlog’s Higher Education Academic Leadership (HEAL) Program. Alexander is a Professor of Art and Design and, as a participant of the HEAL Program, explored game-based learning and play tools for community building, pedagogy, and interdisciplinary engagement.

The Game Hub has been made possible by University Libraries’ sponsorship and The ADP Center for Learning Technologies’ partnership.

Visitor Information

Location: The ADP Center for Learning Technologies (University Hall 1140), ÌÇÐÄvlog

Availability: Monday – Thursday: 9 AM – 8 PM; Friday: 9 AM – 3 PM

About the Higher Education Academic Leadership (HEAL) Program

The HEAL Fellowship program provides opportunities for faculty to identify and study an important problem or challenge facing higher education and propose a scalable and impactful intervention that ultimately supports the success of students, faculty, staff, or the university.

Story by Social Media and Communications Coordinator Lauren Conforti