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MFA graduate Rio Cañas.
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Just Hired: Rio Cañas

March 27, 2025

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has some incredible alumni who are changing the world in the workforce. This series will feature students from all over the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB, IL - - Meet Rio Cañas, a Western Illinois University Master of Fine Arts in Costume Design graduate, who has been hired by Hartford Stage, a live theater in Hartford, CT.

"Hartford Stage was founded in 1964," Cañas said. "Their mission statement is ‘To enlighten, entertain and educate by creating theatrical programming of the highest caliber that has a transformative impact on audiences, the community and its field.'"

Cañas initially applied for a different position, but after the initial interview, they were offered to be the first-hand for the costume shop.

During their time at WIU, Cañas received fundamental guidance from the assistant professor of theatre and head of costume design Rebel Mickelson. They credit their professor's mentorship and coursework as essential learning for their career.

"Rebel was a huge part of what I learned at WIU," Cañas said. "Not only through coursework but in growing my confidence as a costumer."

Cañas stays involved with WIU by engaging with the community and checking the shows happening on campus.

To share your hiring story with WIU, visit https://go.wiu.edu/4eVgEuw

To learn more about the WIU MFA design program, visit wiu.edu/cofac/theatre/MFA_Design.php.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing