Every June, Broadway celebrates their outstanding shows at the annual Tony Awards. No, I was not invited. But, for the first time, I did have the honor and privilege of attending “The Vonnies.
” Held this year at Hammond’s Downtown Historic Columbia Theatre, “The Vonnies,” is an award ceremony recognizing Southeastern Louisiana University’s theater season as well as productions by Alpha Psi Omega, Southeastern’s National Theatre Honors Society. Welcoming guests was APO president and graduating senior, Chloe Williams. There were also warm greetings given by Columbia Theatre’s production manager, APO alumnae Katy Truluck, who helped create “The Vonnies” over 10 years ago.
Joining Katy on stage was Hammond Regional Art Center’s media coordinator and APO alumnae Tara Bennett who has also been an instrumental part of APO and “The Vonnies.” In fact, Tara has been involved enough to have had a Vonnie award named after her, titled “The Bennett Award.” Given to an active alum member who stands with APO and truly loves the organization, “The Bennett Award” this year was given to DeJuan James.
A constant presence both on and off the stage, D.J. is always around to help with both APO and Columbia Theatre shows.
The former admissions recruiter for SLU, D.J. is now functioning as SLU’s academic advisor.
D.J. also played a lead in APO’s production of “The Radium Girls,” filling the role of the CEO and president of the U.
S. Radium Corporation. “The .
