Major: Musical Theatre
Minors: Technical Theatre and Design and American Sign Language and Deaf Studies
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
As part of the disabled community and a service dog handler, I didn’t always see people like me represented in the arts. I was often told that what I wanted to do wasn’t possible, but I’ve always believed it is. I hope to one day interpret musicals and plays through ASL.
Theatre has been in my life since age four when I did my first musical, and I’ve been hooked ever since. At Viterbo, I made my operatic and campus debut in The Marriage of Figaro and worked backstage on SpongeBob: The Musical. I’ll never forget being part of the magic on opening night, just a year after seeing my very first Viterbo show in the same space.
What drew me here was the community. Moving so far from home, I needed a place where I felt supported, and I found that here. My voice teacher, Karla, has been especially impactful, reminding me I am never alone and always have someone to rely on.
Some of my favorite Viterbo traditions include the pet blessing at the Festival of St. Francis. I also love visiting Pearl Street Books and the Weber Center. And yes, Einstein’s is my favorite campus spot, though I may be biased since I work there.
My advice for new students is to slow down. College is a big change, and you do not have to do everything all at once. Take time for yourself and enjoy the journey.
Meet Braeden Jackson, Musical Theatre Major
"One of the biggest reasons I chose Viterbo was because of the amazing conservatory programs. I wanted a university that would give me opportunities to grow and perform, and I found that here. But it wasn’t just the program that won me over. During my campus visit, something just clicked. Viterbo felt like home in a way no other school did."