Alumni Spotlight: Nathanael Washam

I fell in love with light at Lehigh University! I thought I would pursue computer engineering, but it didn’t meet my expectations. A theatre course opened a new world for me. The intimate atmosphere of the Department of Theatre, coupled with faculty and staff that were very knowledgeable and hands-on, convinced me to study technical production. My experience switching from engineering to theatre taught me to value my desires and be willing to take risks. I vividly remember staring down at the blank piece of vellum on my drafting table (yes, this was pre-computer drafting!) and experiencing sheer panic. All I could think was, “I don't know how to do this! How can stationary lights make things look on-stage the way I envision in my mind?” Recalling that my professors and peers trusted and believed in me, I started with the first step and, wonder of wonders, was able to complete a lighting design that made the production look great. I ultimately left the theatre industry to start my own architectural lighting firm.   I have doubted my abilities and skills in design and other areas of my life since then, but the confidence and persistence I was taught in the Department of Theatre have stayed with me and pushed me to where I am today. I ultimately left the theatre industry to start my own architectural lighting firm. My theatre classes were a fantastic combination of art, philosophy, history, sociology, and practicum; in short, they prepared me to approach life holistically.