When Gabe Templin first came to Butler, he was going to become a Computer Science major. Though he loved theatre, it hadn't occurred to him that he could earnestly pursue the craft as a career. But some encouragement from Butler faculty gave him the inkling that he could excel as an actor.

"Right from the beginning, before I even auditioned, Bob Peterson and Bernie Wonsetler made me feel like I was part of the family," Gabe said. "It's always nice to know that you feel welcome someplace, especially before you have even auditioned or have been offered anything."

Though he's now pursuing his M.F.A. at the University of Arkansas, Gabe often recalls his experiences at Butler to help inform his current endeavors. The 2001 El Dorado High School graduate appreciated that Butler allowed him the opportunity to get on stage quickly.

"As an actor, if you go to a four-year university, you may have to compete with juniors and seniors who have worked hard and deserve roles, especially at a university with a graduate program where you may be lucky to even get on stage as an undergraduate," Gabe said. "You learn so many different things about your chosen area by practically applying it... that is what Butler allows you to do."