Musical Theater Meets Social Justice: Q+A with Jesse Ciron '26

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Jesse Ciron

Class of 2026

BA in Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media

How did you become interested in pursuing a BA in Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media?

I was an undecided major my first year at Pace with an intention to pursue musical theater. In my UNV 101 class, however, I learned about the BA in Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media major, and, after meeting with Assistant Dean S. Brian Jones, MA, and talking about the program and its experiences, I knew that it was for me. It incorporates what I am passionate about: theater, identity, diversity, social justice, and representation.

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

I always knew that I wanted to go to college in New York City and was also familiar with Pace University far before the application process began, as I lived near the Pleasantville campus. The student body at Pace is extremely diverse and are pioneers of social change, and that is what drew me here.

What have your experiences been like in the program and the faculty that teach within it?

I have had nothing but wonderful and supportive experiences with the program. Assistant Dean Jones has always been an advocate for his students and their voices; he is the best teacher, mentor, and cheerleader. In addition, my advanced writing in playwriting professor, Joanie Drago, helped me experiment with all my creative ideas and is the main person I thank for helping me develop my writing style. Further, as a cohort, students love to utilize each other in our creative journeys and provide opportunities for one another in our own works.

The student body at Pace is extremely diverse and are pioneers of social change, and that is what drew me here.

What kind of activities have you been engaged in as part of this program and how have they been meaningful to you?

Due to my enrollment in this program, I was able to present my work at the Future of Humanities event at Pace, attend events at The Broadway League and within the Pace Career Pathway Program, tour the New York Theatre Workshop, and so much more. These activities have been meaningful by encouraging me to network and providing me with learning opportunities in the theater and performing arts industries.

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

My career goals are to work for a local theater company here in New York, produce my own musical, and continue acting. One day, I hope to teach and work with a children’s/youth theater and provide upcoming generations with an educational opportunity like mine.

Are there any challenges you have faced that you overcame and are proud of?

A lifelong challenge has been the journey of finding my voice and identity. Being a child of immigrants, the only one in my family pursuing anything within the arts, and many more aspects of who I am, have shaped and formed my understanding of myself and the world around me. While the journey is ongoing, my experience at Pace has helped me form myself as an individual and an artist as well.

What advice would you like to give to our current students?

To current and incoming students in my major, appreciate the journey and don’t forget to reach out to the people around you. Friends and family, whether biological or chosen, are always here to support you.