VPA majors in the class of 2020 senior class designed their capstone projects to highlight their work. Chosen by the faculty of VPA, our Annual Awards also highlight the creativity and excellence of our students and events. See 2021 capstone projects.
Senior capstone projects take place in the senior year of study. They are designed to explore a passion with intensity, take the shape of a large experiential project, or complete a research topic written thesis. Projects are designed to challenge and upend your comfort zone. They are publicly celebrated through performance, exhibition, publication, and oral presentation.
Emily Burke (2020) was nominated for her performance in the fall VPA production of The Moors, where she appeared in the role of Huldey. Emily is a Theatre Arts and English major and served this year as the President of the Onstagers Dramatic Society. Emily was also cast in the role of Gertrude McFuzz in the spring musical Seussical: The Musical which, unfortunately, had to be cancelled when the college moved to remote learning.
Additional Nominees in this Category: Sarah Scougall
Dillon Cloonan (2020) was nominated for his innovative concept and execution in his senior capstone project for his Contract Major in Music. Dillon’s project investigates the intersections between the musical styles of rock and rap. Drawing on his extensive and diverse musical knowledge, Dillon’s capstone yielded a well-researched academic thesis, as well as creative music composition work connecting the musical elements of these two styles.
Additional Nominees in this Category: Mike Emery, Kristen Scheeler
Kevin Benkart (2020) was nominated for his creative blend of art and design in his senior project. His project brings mental health issues into dialogue producing two complimentary artifacts. Kevin’s working process yielded both highly engaging visual work for a streetwear brand, as well as a thematically linked collection of songs.
Additional Nominees in this Category: Emma Hoey, Nick Paolino, Josh White
The Merrimack College Christmas Concert (December 2019) featured the Merrimack Concert Band, Concert Choir, and Jazz Ensemble joining forces to present their annual musical celebration of the Christmas season in the Rogers Center. A second performance of the concert was added for the first time this year, due to audience demand. A benefit event for Lazarus House, all proceeds were donated to that organization to help with their food pantry, homeless shelter, and other services. Over $5,000 was raised at the concerts for these programs, a new record.
Additional Nominees in this Category: The Moors (VPA Department Show; Youniverse by Emma Hoey, a Pop-Up Exhibition
Christopher Previte
Associate Professor of Practice, Graphic Design
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Zahra Ahmadi M’25 hopes to help and support refugees in the United States as a professional social worker.
