Famed Local Director Honored

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AIKEN, SC (04/23/2018) The University of South Carolina Aiken honored longtime faculty member, department chair, theater director and executive director of the Etherredge Center during the final performance of this season's Cultural Series.

During his time on campus, Jack Benjamin wore many hats and assumed numerous responsibilities, but in June he will retire from the university.

Just before Semi-Toned kicked off its rousing show, Benjamin received accolades from USC Aiken and city leaders and a standing ovation from the audience.

"Jack Benjamin will leave an incredible legacy of teaching, producing, directing, and service to our community," said Dr. Mark Hollingsworth, dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Benjamin came to USC Aiken in 1986 as an assistant professor of theatre and a director of theatre. He has served as the chair of the department since 1996.

In 2012, he took on the role of executive director of the Etherredge Center. He was on board for the inaugural Cultural Series in 1986. He has directed more than 70 productions since coming to the university and has directed more than 150 productions in his professional career.

Prior to coming to Aiken, Benjamin taught in Dallas and served as the lighting and scenic designer for several professional theatres throughout the country.

He has received numerous awards including the John F. Kennedy Center Medallion for his work in educational theatre; a S.C. Founders Award; and the Suzanne Davis Memorial Award. Benjamin was inducted into the S.C. Theatre Association Hall of Fame last semester.

"If you participate in theatre in the Southeast, whether directly or by proxy, Jack has had an influence on you," said Dewey Scott Wiley, a USC Aiken theatre professor who has worked with him for a number of years.

Dr. Sandra Jordan, chancellor, also paid tribute to Benjamin's wife, Kathy, for her commitment to the cultural arts.

"Kathy, you and your family have sacrificed time with this tireless professional as he dedicated his time, energy and talents to this university and this community, and we are truly grateful," Jordan said.

"Jack certainly could not have committed as much to the university and the community without [your] support."

As a special tribute to his dedication and commitment for more than three decades, a scholarship has been established in his name.

"The Benjamin Theatre Scholarship honors longtime theatre leader, Jack Benjamin," said Mary Driscoll, vice chancellor for advancement and external affairs.

"Jack has served USC Aiken for 33 years, and it is befitting to establish the scholarship as he steps down from his years of service to USC Aiken."