During our very first fall Homecoming, we celebrated the 50th anniversaries of two signature programs on the hilltop: the College Assistance Migrant Program and Mary Moody Northen Theatre. Over the years, these programs have provided extraordinary learning opportunities and career preparation for thousands of students. We’re proud to highlight the history of theses programs and share photos of the anniversary celebrations.
50 Years of the College Assistance Migrant Program
Since the beginning of the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) in 1972, nearly 2,900 students from migrant farmworker families have pursued their dream of a college degree on the hilltop, thanks to CAMP at St. Edward’s.
Funded by both the U.S. Department of Education and St. Edward’s, our CAMP initiative is the longest continuous program in the U.S. and the only one that supports students beyond their freshman year to graduation. Each year, 35 new CAMP scholars join our community, bringing their passions, talents and desire to make a difference.
Learn more about the history and legacy of CAMP on the hilltop through the stories of several outstanding CAMP scholars.
Moments from Our CAMP 50th Anniversary Festivities
CAMP students, alumni, staff, trustees and guests came together for a festive luncheon to honor this milestone anniversary.
Opening remarks from Reyna Flores ’08, president of the CAMP Alumni Advisory Board, kicked off the event.
The all-women Mariachi Las Coronelas band delighted attendees with classic and contemporary musical favorites.
CAMP alumnae show their hilltop spirit.
President Montserrat Fuentes and university trustees Steve Shadowen ’80 and CAMP alumnus Geronimo Rodriguez Jr. ’90 pause for a photo.
CAMP alumna Anabel Rodriguez ’14 delivers a message to fellow CAMPers.
CAMP donors and advocates Luci Baines Johnson (daughter of U.S. President Lyndon Baines Johnson) and husband Ian Turpin, applaud the speakers. The Johnson-Turpin Scholars Program funds experiential learning opportunities for CAMP students.
Freshman CAMP students gather for a photo with Luci Baines Johnson and Ian Turpin.
Hearty appetites dig into a delicious Tex-Mex buffet.
Festive sweets marked the occasion.
CAMP donor Lee Polanco hs ’67, ’72 visits with CAMP students.
CAMP students chat with President Fuentes and Luci Baines Johnson.
With images from the history of CAMP at St. Edward's in the background, Ballet Folklorico dancers dazzle the audience.
President Fuentes visits with CAMP alumnus and advocate Eduardo Ramos ’86 and his wife Luz Valdez.
Art donated by alumnae Dianey Reya Leal-Sogolof ’15 and Anabel Rodriguez ’14 was unveiled. L-R: Leal-Sogoloff; Rodriguez; CAMP staff – Gilbert Contreras, Assistant Director; Sonia Briseno, Director; Linda Valdez; Reyna Flores, CAMP Alumni Advisory Board
CBS Mornings Covers the History of CAMP at St. Edward’s
To commemorate CAMP’s 50th anniversary, CBS Mornings Correspondent Omar Villafranca caught up with two St. Edward’s students benefiting from the program now, and one who graduated and now mentors others. Watch the full 6-minute news segment.
50 Years of Mary Moody Northen Theatre
Mary Moody Northen Theatre (MMNT) is central to the St. Edward’s professional theater training program, producing work that inspires artists and audiences alike. Through our unique Actor’s Equity Association (AEA) affiliation, MMNT provides students mentoring opportunities with professional theater artists and points toward union membership, while challenging them to work at the highest professional level.
MMNT production of Violet; book & lyrics by Brian Crawley; music by Jeanine Tesori; photo by Jessica Attie
The theater’s history dates back to 1970, when a new major in Theater Arts was created at St. Edward’s, coupled with plans for building an arena theater on campus. Mary Moody Northen provided funding for the theater through the Moody Foundation, and a group of drama students broke ground on the new theater in March, 1970. A relationship with AEA followed, allowing professional stage and screen actors to take part in each production.
In March 1972, the inaugural production of Mary Moody Northen Theatre, Does a Tiger Wear a Necktie?, starred William Shatner. Other renown actors, such as Leonard Nimoy, Stefanie Powers, Pernell Roberts, Mercedes McCambridge and Greg Wilson are among the many professionals and talented students who have since graced the MMNT stage. Check out the current MMNT season.
Moments from the MMNT 50th Anniversary Gathering
Father Lou Brusatti begins the celebration with a blessing and prayer of gratitude.
Theater Arts alumni and guests share memories against a striking view of the Austin skyline.
St. Edward’s University trustees, deans and provost enjoy a convivial visit.
The MMNT anniversary cake sweetens the occasion.
Always prepared for the camera, Theater Arts students strike a fun pose.
An alumna offers a tribute to all Theater Arts alumni and their history with MMNT.
Theater Arts alumni and professional colleagues reconnect during the gathering.
Theater Arts faculty and alumni come together to honor the award-winning MMNT — a treasured resource on the hilltop and in the Austin community.