Abby Williams '25 is a shining example of the diverse talents and passions that thrive within the St. Joseph's University community. From her initial foray into political science to her eventual embrace of the performing arts, Williams' journey has been one of self-discovery and a relentless pursuit of her creative aspirations.

Unlocking the Artistic Potential at the Heart of St. Joe's

Embracing the Performing Arts

Abby Williams' path at St. Joe's has been a testament to the university's ability to nurture and cultivate the artistic talents of its students. Initially drawn to political science, Williams soon found her true calling in the realm of theatre and film, with a particular focus on musical theatre. "I started dancing when I was three, and I wanted to still have that when I was in college," she reflects, underscoring the deep-rooted passion that has guided her artistic journey.Joining the SJU Theatre Company during her sophomore year, Williams has since been a part of seven productions, six as an actor and one as a member of the stage crew. Her versatility and dedication have been on full display, as she has taken on a diverse range of roles, from the lead in "Lend Me a Tenor" to her current portrayal of Mrs. Corry in the company's production of "Mary Poppins."

Discovering the Joys of Collaboration

For Williams, the true magic of her theatrical experiences at St. Joe's has been the sense of community and camaraderie that has blossomed within the SJU Theatre Company. "My favorite show I've done at SJU, hands down, is 'Godspell,'" she shares, "The cast was so close and everyone was so supportive of one another. That show really brought a lot of joy into my life when I needed it most."This spirit of collaboration and mutual support has been a hallmark of Williams' time at St. Joe's, as she has navigated the challenges and triumphs of the performing arts. Her experiences have not only honed her craft but have also fostered a deep appreciation for the power of teamwork and the transformative impact of the arts.

Balancing Passions and Priorities

While the theatre company has been a central focus for Williams, she has also had to navigate the delicate balance of maintaining her involvement in other campus activities. "I joined a lot of activities when I was a freshman. I kind of regret not staying in a lot of them, just because the theater company took a lot of my time, so I had to quit a lot of them," she reflects.This lesson in time management and prioritization has been a valuable one for Williams, as she has learned to juggle her diverse interests and commitments. Despite the challenges, her dedication to the performing arts has remained steadfast, and she continues to explore ways to integrate her passions into her academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Envisioning the Future: Pursuing Graduate Studies and a Career in the Arts

As Williams looks towards the next chapter of her journey, her sights are set on graduate school, where she hopes to further hone her craft and prepare for a career in the arts. "I'd like to go to grad school for acting so I can at least teach at a college and have a stable job, because I know it's hard to be stable in theater," she explains. "I'd like to be a professor and then do shows on the side, if I can."This pragmatic approach, combined with her unwavering passion for the performing arts, reflects Williams' determination to carve out a fulfilling and sustainable path in the creative realm. Her experiences at St. Joe's have not only nurtured her artistic talents but have also instilled in her a deep appreciation for the power of education and the transformative potential of the arts.As Abby Williams continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, her story serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of talent and creativity that thrives within the St. Joseph's University community. Her journey is a testament to the university's ability to foster the growth and development of its students, empowering them to pursue their passions and make a lasting impact on the world around them.