Dramatic art’s Jamie Strickland named Manager of the Year

Jamie Strickland (right) with dramatic art chair McKay Coble. Photo by Mary LIde Parker.

Jamie Strickland, a Carolina alumna and department manager for the department of dramatic art, has been presented with the College of Arts and Sciences’ Award in Management.

Strickland graduated in 2004 with double majors in psychology and sociology. She has been with dramatic art for six years.

The award is given annually to a business or administrative manager in recognition of outstanding accomplishments that include:

  • Leadership and teamwork.
  • Creativity, innovation and resourcefulness.
  • Technological expertise.
  • Effective human resource and budget management.

Department chair and professor of dramatic art McKay Coble nominated Strickland for the award, writing “Jamie is the most remarkable manager. … There is nothing we can give her that she cannot do with grace and skill.”

“Jamie has helped me and the department realize our dream of re-inventing ourselves, restructuring, balancing and succeeding,” Coble shared. “There is no accounting of the legacy of this department and PlayMakers that does not include, in large part, the efforts of Jamie Strickland.”

Other colleagues praised Strickland for her skills in logistical support, efficiency, support of graduate students, “unflagging patience,” understanding of complex university systems and requirements, and willingness to pitch in and help others.

“She embodies the motto of this university: Lux Libertas,” one colleague wrote. “She is a bright Light: ever informed; sincerely kind; warm of spirit. And she perpetuates Liberty: advocates for faculty, students and staff alike; egalitarian and transparent. … Coming to work feels like coming home when I see Jamie.”

Strickland said she is honored to be chosen for the award.

“I am so thankful and proud to be able to walk through the glass doors of the department of dramatic art and call it my home and the people there my family,” she said. “They are an exceptional group with big talents, huge and fabulous dreams and enormous hearts. The department is truly a rare treasure.”