Hillsdale College Theatre Professor Christopher Matsos Named Professor of the Year
Matsos was chosen as professor of the year by the class of 2025.
HILLSDALE, Mich. — Hillsdale College faculty member Christopher Matsos, chairman and associate professor of theatre, was named professor of the year by the College’s 2025 graduating class. The award was announced during the President’s Commencement Dinner on May 2.
“Dr. Matsos helps our students to excel in theatre as well as to recognize truth conveyed through drama,” said Provost Christopher VanOrman. “We are grateful to have him as a member of our faculty, and we congratulate him on this well-deserved honor from the graduating class.”
“Dr. Matsos helps our students to excel in theatre as well as to recognize truth conveyed through drama.”
Christopher Matsos is a graduate of the College of Wooster, where he studied theatre and religion. He has an MFA in acting from the University of Florida and a Ph.D. in theatre history, literature, and criticism from Ohio State University. He has worked around the country as an actor, director, and produced playwright.
Matsos has been at Hillsdale College, where he is an associate professor and chair of the Department of Theatre, since 2018. In addition to teaching courses in acting, playwriting, and theatre history, he is on the Faculty Advisory Committee for the K-12 Education Office and directs productions for Tower Players. Recent directing credits include “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Our Town,” and “Henry V.”
“I am deeply honored to be recognized by this graduating class,” Matsos said. “Their enthusiasm for the illumination and insight that the liberal arts provide makes teaching them a true privilege. Whether we are analyzing great works in the classroom or bringing them to life on stage, watching their intellectual and artistic growth is an inspiring journey. Exploring the human experience together has been as exciting as it is rewarding.”
To be named professor of the year, professors must demonstrate character and teaching excellence in the classroom, availability and generosity in their work with students outside the classroom, and community support through involvement with college organizations and activities. Professors are nominated by members of the senior class through signed letters of recommendation. Seniors then vote among the top four nominees.
As professor of the year, Matsos will speak at next year’s fall convocation.