The award is named after the late John D. Munsell who was the director of theater at UW Superior for over 25 years and directed over 70 theatrical productions including 25 musicals, and a touring theatre program that gave 400 performances in over 60 communities during a 10-year period. He performed in countless plays, commercials, and professional appearances.
Cathy Fank, the UWS theater faculty member hired to replace Munsell, said it was “daunting” to follow Munsell’s act. “He was such a dynamic, inspirational and well-respected acting and directing teacher, so I was stepping into big shoes,” she said, pointing out that a number of Munsell’s former students are now on the theater faculty at area colleges and active in the local theater scene.