Adriana Dominguez, PhD

I attribute my success to my parents, who have been my greatest inspiration and taught me the value of perseverance, education, and making the most of every opportunity. As a first-generation citizen, I grew up witnessing the challenges they overcame, including limited resources, language barriers, and restricted access to information and opportunities, all while working to create a better future for me. Their experiences shaped my perspective and instilled in me a deep appreciation for the opportunities I have been given and a responsibility to use them purposefully. Education was always a priority in my family, and attending college was never a question of whether I would go, but rather what degree I would pursue and what I would accomplish afterward. Their determination continues to motivate me to work hard, remain grateful, and strive to make a meaningful difference through my career and service to others.

The best career advice I have ever received is to remain grounded in what truly matters and to make time for the people and relationships that support you along the way. My career in education and theater can be demanding, particularly when productions are underway, but I have learned that professional success should not come at the expense of family and personal connections. Being married for nearly 15 years and raising a daughter who is entering her teenage years has taught me the importance of balance, patience, and being present. I am also fortunate to have a close-knit extended family nearby, and spending time with them is an important part of my life. Their support reminds me that a fulfilling career is not simply about professional accomplishments, but also about building meaningful relationships and being present for the people who matter most.

My advice to young women entering the education and arts industries is to carve out your own space and recognize that you belong in the environments and fields you are passionate about. Some spaces can feel exclusionary or undervalued, but I believe it is important not to allow those perceptions to discourage you from pursuing what you love. Education and the arts are areas that are not always given the recognition they deserve, yet they have tremendous value and impact. I encourage women to be intentional about creating opportunities for themselves, using their voices, and staying committed to the work that inspires them. Too often, people give up the things they care about because they are afraid to claim their place, and I believe we should encourage one another to pursue our passions and help others do the same.

One of the biggest challenges in my field is ensuring that education and the arts continue to be recognized for the tremendous value they bring to individuals and communities. These fields are not always given the level of support or recognition they deserve, which can make it challenging to create opportunities and encourage people to pursue work they genuinely love. At the same time, I see significant opportunities to expand access, create more inclusive spaces, and inspire others to recognize their own potential. I believe that part of my responsibility as an educator and theater professional is to help create those opportunities, particularly for women and others who may feel that they do not have a place in these spaces. Through my work, I hope to contribute to an environment where people can pursue their passions, develop their talents, and understand the lasting impact of education and the arts.

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are passion, perseverance, integrity, family, and service. I believe deeply in pursuing meaningful work and staying committed to the things that genuinely inspire you, even when they may not seem like the most conventional or practical path. Theater and education have always been central to who I am, and although I questioned my career direction early on, I ultimately realized that I could not walk away from theater and needed to find a way to make my passion work. I also value creating space for others, using opportunities responsibly, and helping people recognize their own potential. Above all, I value my family, the sacrifices my parents made for me, and the responsibility that comes with the opportunities I have been given.