MURFREESBORO, TN — As storm clouds gathered again, Middle Tennessee State University’s arts community stood undeterred. Despite a tornado watch and flash flood warning, devoted patrons braved the elements to witness a milestone moment—the induction of three distinguished figures into the MTSU Arts Hall of Fame.
The evening, hosted by acclaimed soprano Wendy Bryn Harmer from the Boston Conservatory, opened with an electrifying rendition of Put On Your Sunday Clothes from Hello, Dolly! Setting the tone for celebration, the event became a testament to the enduring passion for the arts within the university’s walls.
Honoring Excellence in the Arts
Steven Malone (class of 2003) was the first to be inducted Saturday evening (4/5/2025). He was recognized for his contributions to both the School of Music and Theatre during his time at MTSU. Since graduating, Malone has carved an illustrious path on Broadway, serving as Music Director and Conductor for original productions including Newsies, Anastasia, Flying Over Sunset, Days of Wine and Roses, and Sunset Boulevard, now gracing Broadway once again.
The induction ceremony for the MTSU Arts Hall of Fame gained an even deeper sense of meaning Saturday night as Dr. Leah Tolbert Lyons, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, shared wonderful stories about this year’s honorees. Her thoughtful reflections brought an emotional resonance to an already celebratory occasion, making the evening all the more poignant for the arts patrons in attendance.
The second award was presented posthumously to Dorethe “Dot” Tucker, a cherished figure within MTSU’s Department of Theatre and Dance. A graduate of Middle Tennessee State College, Tucker joined the Language Arts Department in 1957 before playing a pivotal role in founding the Speech and Theatre Department eight years later. She directed productions, mentored students, and sponsored the Buchanan Players, lovingly earning her the unofficial title of “founding mother” of today's department.
The final inductee was WGNS—Murfreesboro’s Good Neighbor Station—in honor of its 78 years of unwavering service to MTSU and Rutherford County. Representing the family-run station, owner Bart Walker, himself an MTSU graduate, shared his personal connection to the arts program. Reflecting on his journey since studying under Tucker and the faculty of the Speech and Theatre Department in the 1960s, Walker emphasized how the mentorship and guidance he received shaped his career. He urged greater support for MTSU Arts, recognizing the department’s lasting impact on students and the community.
A Grand Finale
As the evening drew to a close, a stirring performance of Somewhere from West Side Story left attendees in awe. The collaboration between Harmer and the MTSU Opera and Musical Theatre groups captivated the 800-seat Tucker Theatre, bringing a moment of heartfelt reflection.
Despite the storms raging outside, the atmosphere inside was one of warmth, admiration, and celebration. The unwavering dedication of MTSU’s arts supporters proved that neither rain nor wind could dampen their commitment to honoring creativity, legacy, and excellence.
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