Meet Our Team

Michael Eric Dyson is a Distinguished Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies, Distinguished Professor of Ethics and Society, and the Centennial Chair in African American and Diaspora Studies at Vanderbilt. His multifaceted career as an author, ordained minister and radio host adds depth to his perspectives on race, history and contemporary issues.

Betty Ward-Cooper is a distinguished education leader and mayoral candidate for Monroe, Louisiana. A Monroe City School Board member since 2008, she was re-elected unopposed in 2022 and served as board president in 2020. Throughout her tenure, Betty has chaired and served on the board's Curriculum, Policy, and Finance committees, demonstrating unwavering commitment to educational excellence. In 2021, she earned the distinction as a Certified School Board Member by the Louisiana School Board Association. Her dedication to community empowerment and youth development has made her an invaluable supporter of TheatreSouth's mission to bring transformative arts education to the region.

Patricia "Pat" Moore is a dedicated public servant representing District 17 in the Louisiana House of Representatives since 2019. A native of Monroe, Louisiana, she earned a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Business at the University of Louisiana at Monroe and retired from State Farm after a distinguished career. Before her legislative service, Pat served on the Ouachita Parish Police Jury representing District F from 2007 to 2019. Currently, she serves on the Health and Welfare Committee, Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committee, Medicaid Oversight Committee, Administration of Criminal Justice Committee, Municipal, Parochial, and Cultural Affairs Committee, and the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus. Her commitment to community development and social justice aligns perfectly with TheatreSouth's mission.