We recently sat down with Lizz Nyanzi, Senior Manager of Member Services at USITT, to unpack some of the most frequently asked questions about Membership. From exclusive benefits to ways to get more involved year-round, Lizz shares insights that highlight how Membership can support professionals at every stage of their careers.

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What are the key benefits to Membership?

Lizz Nyanzi: The biggest benefit is staying connected both to the industry and to other professionals. Whether through The Current, our website, professional development, or networking, that sense of connection is what Members value most.
 

Are there any lesser-known or underutilized benefits Members should be aware of?

LN: Definitely! One great example is the Conference Assistants program at our Annual Conference & Stage Expo. It’s Member-exclusive and offers a fantastic way to volunteer, network, and get mentored.

For mid and late-career Members, we offer grants, including international travel funding. There are also presentation opportunities such as sessions, poster presentations, and exhibits like Cover the Walls and Design Expo, all exclusive to Members.

Another hidden gem is the TD&T archives. Members receive the journal quarterly, but they can also access back issues online, perfect for research or reference.
 

Can you explain the different tiers and levels of Membership?

LN: We offer options for individuals and organizations.

For individuals, benefits are the same across tiers, but pricing varies. Students (high school through grad school) get discounted rates. Our standard level is Member, followed by Member+ for those established in their careers who want to contribute more. We also offer Senior Membership for retired professionals because we value their insight and want to keep them engaged.

Organizations can join at Supporting, Sustaining, or Contributing levels. Higher tiers include more Member employee availability and greater discounts on job postings, exhibiting, and more.
 

Why should a company become an Organizational Member?

LN: The biggest perk is access. Employees gain all Member benefits, from Conference discounts to TD&T archives and exhibit eligibility. Depending on the tier, you can enroll a handful of staff or your entire company.

There are also major discounts on job postings. If your company hires frequently, those savings add up fast. Many companies also join to exhibit at Stage Expo or sponsor events, keeping their name visible in the industry.
 

What professional development opportunities does USITT offer Members?

LN: Our Annual Conference is the cornerstone where there are hundreds of sessions, labs, and in-depth workshops across all areas of the industry, with discounts for Members.

Outside the Conference, our 365 programming, which runs through the full year, includes rigging classes, costume symposiums, and more. We also run USITT Connects, which links Members to job opportunities and graduate programs, another great way to grow your career.
 

How does USITT Membership build connection and community?

LN: There’s an instant sense of community when someone mentions they’re a USITT Member. Our name is well-known as we are approaching nearly 66 years, it’s a recognized connection.

Many Members return to the Conference year after year, forming lasting professional relationships. We’re also revitalizing our Regional Sections to foster local connection and are developing new online platforms for year-round engagement.
 

How does USITT prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in Membership?

LN: Accessibility is key. We offer flexible pricing and payment options for students, retirees, and everyone in between. This year we launched the Bridge Membership Program, which gives recent grads a free year of Membership as they transition into the industry.

We also prioritize diverse representation in leadership on every level- on our board, staff, and committees. We strive to include a wide range of voices across age, background, region, and career stage. Our programming reflects that commitment too, with both fresh perspectives and seasoned ones.
 

Can you share an instance where Membership positively impacted someone’s career?

LN: There are so many, but our Mentorship programs at the Conference stand out. Programs like Gateway and Stage Management Mentorship pair mentees with industry professionals. I’ve seen participants return not just as attendees, but as mentors and leaders and many credit that one week in March with launching their careers.
 

How can Members get more involved beyond the Conference and Stage Expo?

LN: Regional Sections are a great starting point. Many are revamping their programming and offer ways to connect with peers facing similar local challenges.

We also encourage involvement through Commissions which are groups focused on specific areas like lighting, management, or sound. They shape Conference programming and work on year-round projects. It’s a powerful way to engage with others in your field and make an impact.

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Whether you're just starting out or farther into your career, USITT Membership offers a wide range of opportunities to connect, grow, and lead in the performing arts and entertainment industry. From professional development and mentorship to networking and exclusive resources, there’s something for everyone.

Join or Renew your Membership today and take full advantage of all that USITT has to offer.