On April 8, Austin Community College District (ACC) staff members took the stage for the ACC Talent Show, raising $5,012 for the Employee Emergency Fund. The event provided an opportunity for colleagues to showcase their skills outside of their jobs while raising money to support faculty and staff experiencing unexpected financial hardships.
The showcase featured a wide variety of performances, including live music, spoken-word poetry, storytelling, and theater. The program also highlighted the lighter side of the evening with a fully choreographed synchronized swimming routine—performed entirely on dry land.
Three acts took home top honors at the conclusion of the event:
- Shilda Fresch, performing a vocal rendition of the song “The Greatest Love of All”
- Walking Shadow Shakespeare
- The Ambassadors of Joy
The production was organized and executed by a team of staff volunteers. Maze and Nikolas Zukowsky co-produced the show, with Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart serving as co-emcee. Michelle Raymond assisted with day-of event coordination.
A larger behind-the-scenes team managed the remainder of the event’s operations, including Natasha Kuhnke, Serena Rangel, Charla Dubes, Lisa Marie Coppoletta, Charity Benford, Jennifer Black, Elisha MacGregor, David Daniel, Amy Finney, Kenji Yoshino, and Herman Cavazos.
Several College departments also contributed operational and logistical assistance to ensure the event’s success, including the Music Department, the Audio Technology & Industry Department, the Office of Belonging and Purpose, and the Teaching & Learning Excellence Division.
Ultimately, the April 8 talent show was more than just a performance; it was a testament to a community willing to show up, step up, and support one another in a night to remember.
View photos and a recording of the show on the ACC Talent Show web page.