The United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County's Emerging Leaders annually honors five community leaders in their 20s, 30s and 40s who give, advocate and volunteer for change with the Philanthropic 5 Awards. Stritch Theater associate professor Mark Boergers is one of the five individuals to receive this prestigious recognition in 2021.

In addition to his work at Stritch, Boergers is the co-artistic director of The Arc Theatre in Chicago, IL and co-founder of “Shakespeare on the Ridge” in Evanston, Ill. An advocate for the community impact of artistic craft across all demographics, his work in both academic and professional arts settings centers around the ability for artists of all ages and backgrounds to explore their voice, tell meaningful stories, present accessible experiences, and create a rich community dialogue. Most recently, Boergers' leadership and vision through creativity and nimbleness resulted in new ways to present and share these stories despite a global pandemic. Not only did that help his students, programs and university remain relevant, but it demonstrated we can (and do!) respond to any challenge. Boergers received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Theater from Marquette University and a Master of Fine Arts in Acting degree from The Theatre School at DePaul University.

"Mark is a creative man who continues to mentor and coach others to be the very best that they can be both on and off the stage," said Dr. Anthea Bojar, '69, a member of the Stritch Board of Trustees and Dean Emerita. "He found ways to keep theater alive during the very challenging time of the pandemic. He gives generously to many organizations both in our state and in Illinois. He has a can-do attitude and is a role model for others."

The Philanthropic 5 Award honorees will be recognized August 5.