Riley Risso Coker will take up her role as Director of Theater at Southeastern Oklahoma State University on June 7.

She is an Associate Professor of Theater at Southeastern, where she teaches courses in acting, film, dance and theater management. She is also the director of the SPARKS dance team and sponsors the faculty of Alpha Psi Omega, a theatrical fraternity.

“My mother (the late Dr Molly Risso) was a master teacher with a unique vision for the drama department at Southeastern,” Coker said. “She trained hundreds of theater artisans during her tenure as Theater Director who went on to have successful careers in the industry. One of those students was Dell McLain (the late Theater Director). He took over the reins after my mother died and successfully ran the theater in Southeastern for over twenty years. His leadership and contribution to the art form cannot be underestimated. I am humbled and honored to ‘have the opportunity to serve in this line of inspired visionaries. “

In addition to her duties at college, Coker is the production manager of the Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival, which is now entering its 42nd season. The Festival produces eight shows each summer and hosts the Academy of Performing Arts during the academic year.

Coker received his MA in Theater from California State University, Fullerton, and his BA in Communication and Drama from Southeastern