Donor of the Month: Bryan Misener
Mon. Feb. 1, 2021
Bryan Misener and the Kristopher Turner Award
As a theatre agent, Bryan Misener’s eye for spotting and developing talent goes beyond the realm of the professional acting world. In the fall of 2020, Misener sought to create an award that could be used to support a promising student in the Theatre and Film Department at UWinnipeg. Established as a birthday gift in honour of his friend and client, Kristopher Turner, Misener’s award has already found a recipient in Willow Harvey—a 3rd-year student in the Honours Acting Program.
“I’ve been lucky enough to have had many clients graduate from various theatre schools, and gone on to find success in theatre, television and film,” said Misener when asked about his interest in giving to the liberal arts. “I think providing support is vital in such a competitive field.”
Misener notes that Turner, who graduated from UWinnipeg’s Theatre program in 2003, still feels a strong connection to his Alma mater. Unable to celebrate his close friend’s birthday due to the pandemic, Misener felt that a gift to the program Turner spent his academic career enrolled in would be a fitting alternative. Misener’s decision to give as part of a longstanding agency tradition signals to our hardworking undergrads that our community of donors is eager to support them in their studies and recognize those who go the extra mile.
Much like Turner, Willow is no stranger to the rigorous movement, voice, and performance training that dedicated students are expected to learn as part of the honours curriculum. “She’s an exemplary and highly committed student,” said Theatre and Film Department Chair Christopher Brauer. “We’re incredibly proud of her achievements and grateful for the support we’ve received from Misener.”