STAGESOURCE ANNOUNCES THE CREATION OF THE BJ WILLIAMS FUND

[Boston, MA] — StageSource is proud to announce the opening of the BJ Williams Fund in collaboration with Jeff Poulos and the Williams family. BJ (Betty Jane) Williams (she/her/hers, 1925-2022) was an Educator, Director, Producer and Advocate for high school and community theater in Belmont, Arlington, and Winchester. In honor of her life’s service to the theater community and to young artists in particular, the Fund will provide free StageSource memberships to college students from historically excluded populations pursuing careers in New England theater. By supporting young artists in connecting with local organizations, this Fund helps to increase the diversity and vitality of the New England theater community. The Fund is accepting donations in memory of Ms. Williams.

The BJ Williams Fund was initiated by donations from BJ's former student Jeff Poulos and her children Tina and Eric Williams. Poulos (he/him/his), who previously served as Executive Director of StageSource, shared his intention behind the fund: "BJ was an inspirational teacher and theater artist that influenced thousands of people, young and old, in her lifetime. It is only fitting that her legacy of giving the gift of theater continues in the form of scholarships for aspiring theater artists to pursue their passion, one she shared and passed on to so many." 

Recipients will make valuable connections before graduation to help them in launching their careers in Greater Boston. With a one-year membership to StageSource, these students will have access to special events as well as the Job Fair, Annual Auditions, and more. Applicants must self-identify as members of historically excluded communities including BIPOC, transgender, disabled, and socioeconomically disadvantaged, among others. More information on eligibility requirements and specific benefits and opportunities the Fund provides will be released in January 2023. Funds will be disbursed annually until depleted.

Those interested in donating to the fund today or in learning more about BJ Williams can visit the BJ Williams Fund page on the StageSource website.