The Donald E. Hood Theater Arts Scholarship Endowment was established on March 24, 2021 totaling $25,000. The endowment is a tribute to Donald E. Hood, a loving husband, Air Force Veteran, enthusiastic boater & ardent traveler, but locally remembered best for his work in Stage Crafters Community Theater and his comedic timing.
Don was involved in every aspect of Stage Crafters, both on and off the stage. A consummate performer, he performed in 17 musicals and 9 plays enjoying memorable roles as the Sheriff in “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, the dentist in “Little Shop of Horrors”, Captain Brackett in “South Pacific, Chief Bromden in “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest” and was hilarious as Max the chauffer in 2001’s “It’s a Scream!”. He served on the Executive Board of Stage Crafters for 10 years and was President in 1996. In his later years, he enjoyed playing guitar for the musicals “Smoke On The Mountain”, “Sanders Family Christmas” and “Is There Life After High School”. Over the years he received many awards, most notable was the Stage Crafters Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006.
Don’s wife Jean was an enthusiastic partner, participating with Don in all his productions. She worked behind the scenes, mainly as assistant stage manager. In between shows, the couple traveled extensively and one of their favorite activities was attending community productions. The Hoods had a rich and fun-filled life that revolved around the theater. The Donald E. Hood Theater Arts Endowed Scholarship is Jean Hood’s tribute to her husband’s legacy. Her hope is to provide scholarship support to students in the Northwest Florida State College Theater Department who share his calling and passion for theater arts.
Photo (L to R): NWFSC President, Devin Stephenson; Donald E. Hood’s Wife, Jean Hood; NWFSC Director of Development, Carla Reinlie; NWFSC Chair –Division of Find & Performing Arts, Clint Mahle
For more information about the Donald E. Hood Theater Arts Scholarship Endowment please call the NWFSC foundation Office at 850-729-5357.
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