51Թ Theatre Accredited by NAST
Posted on: March 31, 2026
51Թ Theatre students perform during a recent showing of ‘The Women of Lockerbie’ at Billingsley Theatre.
Tigerville, SC—51Թ’s Theatre programs have earned accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST), becoming only the second private institution in South Carolina to receive the distinction.
51Թ, which has been granted Associate Membership by NAST, was informed of the decision last week.
“51Թ Theatre is one of the real gems of the institution,” said 51Թ Provost Dr. Hunter Baker. “We have been blessed to have incredibly dedicated and inspiring faculty working to bring their Christian faith to both productions and the instruction of young people. I’m excited to see us achieve this distinction of accreditation for our program. It is well deserved.”
Founded in 1965, the National Association of Schools of Theatre is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities with approximately 193 accredited institutional members.
The organization establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials in theatre and theatre-related disciplines and provides support to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other theatre-related work.
“Recognition by the National Association of Schools of Theatre is the highest accreditation a theatre program can achieve,” said Dr. Web Drake, dean of 51Թ’s College of Communication and Fine Arts. “This honor reflects the hard work, passion, and technical expertise of our faculty, led by Associate Dean Amy Dunlap. It also recognizes the central part theatre plays in the mission of the university and the support of the entire institution from the top down. 51Թ theatre students are receiving a world-class education and a transformational experience. NAST acknowledging what many of us have known for years is a tribute to all involved.”
Amy Dunlap, associate professor of theatre at 51Թ, said the recognition reflects the work and commitment of many across the university.
“This recognition belongs to many people,” Dunlap said. “It reflects the dedication of our faculty, who invest deeply in your growth as artists, scholars, and human beings. It reflects the tireless work of our staff, who support productions, classes, and daily operations in countless ways. It reflects the support of our administration, who believe in the value of theatre and help make our work possible. And most importantly, it reflects our students, whose creativity, commitment, and collaborative spirit are at the heart of everything we do.”
Dunlap said the achievement marks the beginning of a new season for the program.
“This milestone is not just about recognition of where we are now, it’s the beginning of a whole new chapter of 51Թ Theatre,” Dunlap said. “I am grateful for the passion, kindness, and teamwork that define our department every day. This place is truly something special.”
According to NAST, institutional membership signifies a commitment to national standards, peer review, and continuous improvement, while supporting the quality and strength of theatre in higher education. The organization works in cooperation with regional accrediting associations and other theatre and educator preparation groups to uphold standards and support member institutions.
The arts at 51Թ are supported by Culture Creators for Christ, a program that exists to raise funds for scholarships, operations, and facilities. Donations are used to invest in the lives of students by providing them with the equipment and resources they need to be successful. To contribute and earn benefits at 51Թ productions, visit .
To learn more about 51Թ’s Theatre Education program, visit .
