Morgan King ’20

Morgan King ’20 is passionate about drama and loves education. The Des Moines native and Theatre Arts major was active in opera throughout her college career. Her appreciation for professional theatre grew thanks to Exploreships with two of the most well-respected art institutions in the Midwest. She solidified her love for education with her first teaching practicum. In King’s new role as Drama Director for the Des Moines Public Schools, she gets to live out both her passion for drama and her love for education.

About Morgan

Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa
Major: Theatre Arts
Minor: Secondary Education
Occupation: Drama Director for Des Moines Public Schools
Involvement at Simpson: Opera, Student Government Association, Alpha Psi Omega (national theatre honorary fraternity), Upward Bound Mentor, SC Leader
Exploreships at Simpson: Des Moines Performing Arts, Des Moines Symphony

Q&A

What will your job as drama director entail and what drew you to this career?
As the Drama Director, I will direct all the productions while helping students find their calling. I will also be teaching English and Drama classes to high school students. I chose this line of work because I am passionate about drama and wanted to find a way to persue drama while also giving back to the community. So, I decided to become a teacher!

Was there a part of your Simpson Experience that made you realize your passion for drama and teaching? 
I realized after my first education practicum that I love education. I love the idea of helping students find their calling in life. All I want as a teacher is to help my students know they are important and deserve a quality education.

You took part in Exploreships with two of the most well-respected art institutions in the Midwest: Des Moines Performing Arts and the Des Moines Symphony. How did those experiences affect your choice of career?
My internships helped me see the professional side of theatre and helped me make the decision to become a teacher.

What led you to choose Simpson in the first place?
The theatre department brought me to Simpson because it is an amazing program with a wide range of possibilities. I knew I would get a well-rounded education at Simpson.

Theatre Arts at Simpson. It’s a world unto itself with a great presence on campus. Our students are known for their passion and immersion into the world of theatre. But you’re not limited to on-stage performances. Whether it’s acting, directing, or designing, there’s a role for every talent.

Explore Theatre Arts at Simpson College