hilda willis | education consultant

Hilda, actress, writer and vocalist, began performing in 1969. Hilda has performed numerous roles throughout her performing career. While at North Carolina A&T State University she became known for her outstanding work on stage at the Paul Robeson Theatre. Her most noted performances include: Lorraine Hansberry in Young Gifted and Black and Nell Carter in Ain't Misbehavin where she was nominated to compete in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) Irene Ryan Acting Competition and received high honors as a top 10 finalist.

After college, Hilda re-entered the professional world of theatre and went on to perform and direct on some of the most well known stages in New York and other Regional Theatres. They include: The Apollo, The Cotton Club, The Baby Grand, Sweet Waters, National Black Theatre, The Mint, The Trilogy, Theatre Row, Billie Holiday Theatre, Lime Kiln, Mill Mountain Theatre, 7 Stages, Jomandi Theatre, 14th Street Playhouse and The Great Bay Plaza (Antilles ). A few of her favorite professional roles include: Lady Capulet Romeo and Juliet, Dr. Charlotte Falsettos, Amy Stone Wall Country, Ancestor The Legacy, Mother Breath Boom and Clorine Glory Bound.

Willis is currently the Executive Artistic Director for The Performing Arts Program for Youth, Inc (PAPY), founded by Jane Fonda in 1997. She lives her art and has dedicated her life to reaching and teaching youth as well as the community through the arts. Her arts and education methodology has been recognized by educators and many different types of youth serving organizations. Her work has been noted by Harvard Universitys' Project Zero and has afforded her the opportunity to take part in conversations that address the needs of instituting more Arts Based Learning.

Willis has served as director, advisor and consultant to a wide range of youth serving organizations and institutions of higher learning. They include: Touro College , Fordham University , Virginia Tech, Roanoke College , Spelman College , Clark Atlanta , The National Black Theatre's Action Arts Institute, The Boys and Girls Club of America, 21st Century Community Learning Center and Beacon School 's Lab 200.