Brian Ruggaber

Brian J. Ruggaber is a distinguished Associate Professor of Scenic Design at the University of Memphis, where he brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the academic community. He earned his Master of Fine Arts in Theatre with a specialization in Scenic Design from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Prior to this, he completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Design and Technical Production, focusing on Lighting Design, at Virginia Commonwealth University. Ruggaber's professional journey is marked by significant contributions to the field of scenic design. He has served as the Program Head for both the MFA and BFA programs in Scenic Design and Related Crafts at the University of Memphis and the University of Cincinnati. His role as a Resident Scenic Designer and Assistant Professor at the University of Cincinnati further highlights his commitment to nurturing the next generation of theatre professionals. In addition to his academic roles, Brian has been an Associate Professor of Scenic Design at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he continued to inspire students with his innovative approach to design. His early career also includes a position as a Lecturer in Scenic and Lighting Design at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where he began to hone his teaching skills. Ruggaber is an active member of several prestigious theatre organizations, including United Scenic Artists - USA Local 829, the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), and the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC). These affiliations reflect his dedication to staying connected with the broader theatre community and contributing to the advancement of the field. Throughout his career, Brian has been involved in numerous productions, showcasing his versatility and creativity as a scenic designer. His work is characterized by a keen attention to detail and a deep understanding of the collaborative nature of theatre production. His contributions to both academia and professional theatre continue to leave a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.