As a legacy Duke, Maria knew she wasn’t ready to give up JMU just yet. She graduated with her Bachelors of Arts in Musical Theatre with minors in Sociology and Theatre from JMU in May 2025. In her time in undergrad, Maria served as the Recruitment Intern for the College of Visual and Performing Arts, the alumni relations chair and the business manager for the mixed voices a capella group Low Key, a character volunteer with A Moment of Magic, a volunteer and class leader with Dance for Parkinson’s, a member of both Alpha Psi Omega and Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, and a regular on the Forbes Center stages.  

After completing her senior thesis in Theatre for Young Audiences and working with young artists from around the state, Maria wanted to continue her time collaborating with creative minds, leading her to the opportunity to work with the Office of Creative Propulsion. She looks forward to continue cultivating relationships with artists and higher education professionals post-grad!  

When she’s not at work, you can find Maria on stage in her home town of Richmond, cozied up with a great book, or spending time with her family, friends, and two cats.