My name is Terrence Banks II, and I’m proud to share my story as I take the next big step in my education and career. I recently graduated from Eastern Arizona College (EAC) with my Associate of Arts in Theater Arts, and I’m now moving to Las Vegas to attend the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where I will be pursuing my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Technical Theater and Design with an emphasis in Lighting.

During my first year at EAC, several members of the residence life staff encouraged me to apply for a Resident Assistant position because they saw potential in my leadership abilities. I took their advice, applied, and was selected for the role. Balancing my responsibilities as an RA while actively participating in theater taught me valuable time management skills and dedication. Later, I interviewed for a promotion and was honored to be chosen as a Resident Director. In that position, I led hall staff, coordinated student programming, and provided mentorship and guidance to residents.

In the theater department, I explored every aspect of technical theater, stage management, lighting design, sound design, and backstage work. One of my proudest moments came in 2025 when our production was selected as one of only four schools in our entire region to be invited to perform at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF). This selection recognized excellence in all aspects of the show, including my lighting design, which was entered in the festival’s competition. At the festival, I was honored to receive the Heart of the Art Award and be named a finalist in the design competition. I am also a proud member of Delta Psi Omega, the national theater honor society, which recognizes excellence in theater arts.

I was also named Outstanding Student in Design and Technology by the EAC Theater Department for my artistic work and contributions to productions—three years in a row, a record achievement in the school’s history.

Beyond campus, I served on the Arizona Commission on the Youth Arts Council (2022–2023), where I reviewed and evaluated grant applications, helping award funding to young artists across Arizona. I also connected with other young artists to discuss the state of their local theater communities and explore ways to improve them.

These experiences have shaped me into a dedicated, hardworking, and creative leader. As I begin this next chapter at UNLV, I am determined to continue growing as an artist and making a meaningful impact through the arts.

Moving to Las Vegas is an exciting step, but it also comes with financial challenges. This fund will help cover tuition, books, housing, and other school-related expenses so I can focus fully on my studies and theater work. Any contribution—big or small—will directly support my education and future in the arts.

Thank you for reading my story and for supporting me in achieving my dreams.