​The Michael Peitz Leadership Award is presented to one student each year who demonstrates leadership in and beyond their Thespian Troupe, and exemplifies the characteristics of a Thespian. Candidates are nominated by their troupe director.

​Criteria: The nominee must be a junior or senior student inducted as a Thespian by the time of the Iowa Thespian Festival. The nominee may not be a member of or a candidate for the Iowa Thespian Chapter Board or the International Thespian Officer board.

Past Recipients of the Michael Peitz Leadership Award
  • 2023 Juliana Clark from Troupe 452, Clinton High School
  • 2019 Samantha Barklow from Troupe 69, Dubuque Senior High School
  • 2018 Tracie Martinson from Troupe 561, Cedar Rapids Jefferson
  • 2017 Danielle Schmaltz from Troupe 1451, Waukee High School
  • 2016 Maggie McClellan from Troupe 1451, Waukee High School
  • 2015 Katrina Sieck from Troupe 4274, Grinnell High School
  • 2014 Ridg Downs from Troupe 1451, Waukee High School
  • 2013 Kenny Thach from Troupe 3994, Davenport North High School

​History of the Michael Peitz Leadership Award
This award is the marriage of an idea that the student board had been developing, as well one that the adult chapter board had been discussing, both without the knowledge of the other. When the two ideas were presented, it became apparent that student leadership was an incredibly important aspect of Thespians in Iowa, and one that needed increased recognition. The student board was adamant the award not recognize the student that was always in the limelight, but rather that the award highlight the leadership of a tireless worker, the one that often flies under the radar, but whose contributions to the troupe are indispensable. It was this initial thought that served as the basis for the development of the student leadership award.

As the vision of the adults and students of this year's chapter board came to fruition, the discussion turned to the name of the award. It was quickly decided that the award would be named in honor of an Iowa native that has made an indelible impact on educational theatre, Michael Peitz.
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Michael served as director of theatre in LaPorte City, Benton Community, and Northern University High Schools. He also worked with the Cedar Rapids schools. His work in these high school programs led him to his association with Iowa Thespians where he eventually served as the state chapter director. In this capacity, Michael made great strides in the world of educational theatre, making a difference in the lives of Thespians across the state. Michael continued to do great work eventually leading to his position as Executive Director for the Educational Theatre Association and its honor society, the International Thespian Society, a position that he held for 13 years.

Michael Peitz Leadership Award Nomination Form

    This application form MUST be submitted by a TROUPE DIRECTOR.  All nomination forms must be submitted by October 31, 2024.  Late submissions will not be accepted.  
    TROUPE DIRECTORS: Please attach a letter of recommendation for the student you are nominating for the 2024 Michael Peitz Leadership Award.  The letter of recommendation should be between 250 - 500 words.  The letter of recommendation should answer the following question:

    “How does your student display excellent Thespian qualities, and various forms of leadership both in and outside your Thespian troupe?”

    If you have any trouble submitting your nomination form, or if you have questions, please contact Lynn Jensen at [email protected]
    Max file size: 20MB