More than 100 staff members work in the Division of the Humanities. We'll introduce you to our staff in this continuing series.

Vicki Walden
Graduate Program Coordinator, Theater and Performance Studies
Office: Logan Center 218

What do you like most about your job?
I am, by nature, a curious person and I appreciate that there is so much to learn in my position. It’s exciting. The TAPS graduate program is new, and is, in fact, the only joint PhD program of its kind in the country. Our first cohort of graduate students starts this fall, and I’m looking forward to supporting them and their work, while helping the program thrive and grow. I also deeply appreciate the people I work with, both in TAPS and across the Division.

What was the last good book you read?
I am currently in graphic novel mode, and recently reread Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home (a favorite of mine). I also highly recommend Craig Thompson’s Habibi. The story is heartbreaking and the art, breathtaking.

You might work with me if you need..
….to learn about/interface with the grad program; to cross-list courses with TAPS; to co-sponsor and/or advertise events; or to chat about the storefront theater scene in Chicago (I’m an ensemble member of Curious Theatre Branch.)

What's your favorite thing about Chicago summers?
I love how, at any given moment during the summer, there is a ton of music happening outside. From buskers to block parties to street fairs to festivals, you’re surrounded. It’s delightful.