Isiah Whitlock, Jr '76
New York, NY
Southwest Minnesota State University alumnus Isiah Whitlock, Jr., Class of 1976, has created an endowed scholarship through the SMSU Foundation as a kick-off to the Curtains Up enhancement project in support of the SMSU Theatre and Fine Arts program.
“I had a great experience at Southwest, it was instrumental in my career. Without my time there, without that education and experience, I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing now. I’m simply giving back in a very small way to help with the careers of others who may want to go on.”
Whitlock is a film, theatre, television and commercial artist originally from South Bend, Ind. He came to SMSU to play football, but an injury cut his athletic career short. One day, he tagged along with a couple of friends who were going to try out for the play, “The Crucible.” On a whim, he decided to try out for a part. He was cast, thus beginning a love for the art of acting.
Whitlock recently finished work on the new movie, “Cedar Rapids,” and is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Sen. Clay Davis on HBO’s series, “The Wire.” He is equally adept in film, theatre, television and commercials, and as an actor. He measures success by continuous work. “A lot of people measure it by visibility, how many people see you doing what you do. I think if you work on a consistent basis, that’s the most successful you can be. There are a lot of successful actors you just don’t know about, and any actor would love to be one of those. I’ve been fortunate enough to have constant work.”
Whitlock looks back fondly on his time at SMSU. “All of the professors were helpful to me, especially (the retired) Bill Hezlep. He was instrumental in seeing me through. Costumer Charles Autry was influential, too. I carry with me today the education and experiences I received at SMSU, and this scholarship is a way for me to show my appreciation.”
Whitlock was the commencement speaker in 1999, distinguished alumni award recipient in 2004 and in 2007 spent a week on campus as a visiting artist in the Theatre Department.
The Curtains Up theatre enhancement project is a plan to raise support for theatre improvements, program assistance and scholarships. Support will help ensure the long-term viability and quality of the fine arts programs at SMSU.
Southwest Minnesota State University acknowledges the SMSU Foundation as the preferred channel for private contributions that benefit all areas of the university. For more information on how you can support SMSU please contact Bill Mulso, Associate Vice-President of Advancment at bill.mulso@smsu.edu or 507-537-6267.