1. TERP Allies: An interactive Theater Program
University of Maryland ADVANCE Program presents
TERP Allies: An interactive Theater Program
Have you ever witnessed social bias – a stereotype, form of discrimination or exclusion – but didn’t know what to do? Have you experienced bias yourself and wanted to speak up but were unsure how to do so, only to ruminate later about all you should have said or done? People who witness bias often want to respond, but most find it difficult to know what to do or how to do it well, particularly when biases are subtler, implicit or ambiguous. Research, however, suggests that when bystanders speak up, they play an important role as allies in reducing bias!
Calling non-professional actors interest in joining a new group called TERP Allies!
TERP Allies will use interactive theater and discussion of self-generated scenarios addressing a range of biases that may occur in academic settings. Workshops use humor and the arts as a way to open up discussion about how to organize our work environments to be more inclusive.
Who can join TERP Allies? Faculty, administrators, and graduate students
What is involved? Attend 2 meetings (A&B) in early fall, 2017 for training; be available for performance for the academic year,
When will TERP Allies perform? TERP Allies will be available for university, college and department retreats and meetings starting in mid-October, 2017.
“In theater, you have the power to bring voice to those who have been marginalized, discriminated against, left out, overlooked, or silenced.”
- Dr. Monique M. Chism, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy & Programs, U.S. Dept. of Education
A Meetings: Wednesday, Sept. 13, 10AM-12 PM, Marie Mount 1310 OR Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2-4 PM, Marie Mount 1310
B Meetings: Monday, Sept. 25, 2-4 PM , Marie Mount 1310 OR Tuesday, Oct. 3, 10 AM-12PM, Marie Mount 1310
To get more information or apply to become a TERP Ally, contact Gudrun Nyunt at
The TERP Allies program is coached by Carmen Balthrop, Professor of Voice and Opera and ARHU ADVANCE Professor, and is sponsored by the ADVANCE Program in partnership with the Teaching & Learning Transformation Center.