January 11-12, 2006

ITEM: 130-1009-R0106  Authorization to Confer the Title of Professor Emeritus of Drama Upon Christine Milodragovich; The University of Montana-Missoula

THAT: Professor Christine L. Milodragovich successfully completed 32 years of dedicated service to The University of Montana, has merited the commendation of the Board of Regents of the Montana University System, and has earned the title of Professor of Drama Emeritus.

 

EXPLANATION: Professor Christine L. Milodragovich began her service to The University of Montana in 1973 as an Instructor in the Home Economics Department, after receiving her Master of Arts in Home Economics from Washington State University. In 1989, she was transferred officially to the Department of Drama/Dance, although she had worked closely with the department prior to that time designing costumes for Tartuffe and Whoopee-Ti-Yi-Y.

Professor Milodragovich's influence in the Department of Drama/Dance cannot be overstated. She co-chaired the department for ten years, bringing harmony, vision and a thorough knowledge of University practices to its program. She worked as costume designer for some of the department's most popular shows, such as Amadeus and The Heiress. She also assisted the Montana Repertory Theatre by designing costumes for Death of a Salesman, A Streetcar Named Desire and It's a Grand Night for Singing. Her designs for the Montana Repertory Theatre toured from coast to coast to audience and critical acclaim.

Throughout her tenure, Professor Milodragovich exhibited a commitment to the University by her willingness to serve as Interim Dean of the School of Fine Arts for the 1998-99 academic year, as Director of the Historic Costume Collection, and on numerous committees.

Undeniably, Professor Milodragovich's most enduring legacy is in the area of teaching. She expanded the costume design program by developing classes in draping, patterning, intermediate costume construction, tailoring and textiles. Her knowledge, abilities and skills helped broaden the technical component of the costume shop in the Department of Drama/Dance. She is well loved by her students, who find in her a caring and inspiring mentor. Many of her students have successful careers in costume design and technology, thanks to her influence.

The Department of Drama/Dance is honored to recommend Professor Christine L. Milodragovich for Emeritus status.