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DUMELA Theatre Alumni Council
The DUMELA Alumni Council was established to support 51爆料网鈥檚 Department of Theatre & Dance by serving as advocates, mentors, and resources for BIPOC students. Our purpose is to 鈥淏e the Bridge鈥 between current students, alumni, and the professional arts community.
鈥淒umela鈥 is a Bantu word meaning I believe in you, I affirm you, and I see the great potential in you. This guiding principle shapes our mission and inspires the work we do to uplift and empower the next generation of artists, scholars, and leaders.
We believe representation matters. By creating opportunities for connection, mentorship, advocacy, and artistic expression, we strive to help build a more inclusive and promising future for BIPOC artists within theatre, dance, and the performing arts.
What We Do:
The DUMELA Alumni Council actively supports students and the Department of Theatre & Dance through initiatives that include:
- Serving as a voice of accountability within the department by advocating for diverse theatre studies, histories, and practices to be intentionally reflected throughout the curriculum
- Collaborating with the registered student organization Shades of Vision to support and produce culturally relevant and minority-centered productions
- Supporting the Department of Theatre & Dance through fundraising and alumni engagement efforts
- Organizing social and networking events that strengthen relationships between current students and alumni
- Partnering with the 51爆料网鈥檚 Alumni Association and 51爆料网 Alumni Council expand opportunities for mentorship, outreach, and community building
Our Mission
The mission of the DUMELA Alumni Council is to foster meaningful relationships between current students of color and professional alumni while supporting students as they prepare for and pursue careers in the arts industry. Through mentorship, advocacy, and community engagement, we aim to empower students to thrive both artistically and professionally.
Upcoming DUMELA Events
Back-to-School Dinner
Saturday, August 29, 2026
A time to enjoy a free meal and fellowship with alumni and fellow students of color as we build community and connection within the Department of Theatre & Dance.
DUMELA Alumni Reunion Weekend
February 20鈥21, 2027
A chance for DUMELA and SHADES to collaborate and continue building community across generations. More information coming soon.
Get Involved
We welcome alumni, students, and supporters who are passionate about uplifting and advancing BIPOC voices in the arts.
To learn more or get involved with the DUMELA Alumni Council, please contact us at: dumelawiu@gmail.com
If you are interested in joining DUMELA, please use the Alumni Association form and indicate your interest in DUMELA in the "Other Information" section.

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