Rob Doyen ’69 announces retirement as professor of theatre

Esteemed alumnus, artist and professor Rob Doyen ’69 announced his retirement from Stephens College this past weekend.

“Rob has been an anchor and a leader for Stephens College, its students and its faculty,” said Dr. Dianne Lynch, Stephens College president.

“I have always been moved by his integrity, heart and unfailing focus on what matters: our students. Rob’s honesty, commitment (and, of course, brilliant talent!) will be missed.”

Doyen was the first male to graduate from Stephens, having come in as a junior on a theatre scholarship. He returned to Okoboji Summer Theatre as a guest artist in 1978 and went on to perform for 42 seasons there (to incredibly loyal and appreciative crowds). He joined the Stephens full-time faculty in 1982. He most recently served as coordinator of the theatre program and was a resident actor/teacher at Stephens, where he taught Acting and Directing.

“After much reflection about my incredibly satisfying years with Stephens Theatre, I have decided to make my exit,” Doyen said.

“Stephens has been a great part of my life, it has shaped my outlook on so many important issues and it has given me the opportunity to be surrounded by so many gifted and talented people — students, faculty, staff and administrators alike — and to live my life as an actor and teacher.

“I know I won’t be able to replace the hours spent in rehearsal working with students and with my fellow actors, designers and technicians — those are memories that will last a lifetime. They have made my life at Stephens so rich and rewarding.

“As a proud Stephens alum, faculty member and proud father of two alums, I have been the real beneficiary of the Stephens experience, and I say 'Stephens, our Stephens, hail to thee' ... the umbilical cord is still attached.

“And thus, in the words of the Bard, 'Thanks, thanks and ever thanks.'" 

Stephens is making plans to celebrate Doyen’s years of service once the community can do so safely within CDC guidelines. This celebration will include the opportunity to give him a standing ovation at Okoboji Summer Theatre when that program is open again.

Follow Stephens College Creative and Performing Arts on Facebook for updates. 

 

Pictured top: Rob Doyen ’69 in Murder on the Orient Express at OST, 2019.