Samantha Geffen
NYU Steinhardt’s Performing Arts Administration (PAA) graduate program is proud to announce that Samantha Geffen (PAA ’22) has published her research, “Accessibility in Theater: Best Practices for Web Accessibility in the Theater for People with Disabilities,” in the Journal of Arts Management (2024, Issues 3 and 4). Geffen is a Sign Interpreter and Accessibility Coordinator at Geva Theatre Center, where she supports accessibility initiatives including sign language–interpreted and open-captioned performances.
Geffen’s article is an expanded and refined version of her Final Research Project, developed with faculty mentorship during her final year in the program. Reflecting on how her graduate studies shaped the work, Geffen shared:
“ While most of my work has been front of the house in performing arts, my time at NYU Steinhardt allowed me to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes… Thanks to Program Director Dr. Maloney for his guidance throughout the program, Dr. Yu who helped me throughout the article review process, and everyone else who provided advice and support throughout my time at NYU.”
She added that she hopes to continue advancing accessibility practices across the field by researching best practices and consulting with performing arts venues and nonprofits to build inclusive, welcoming, and accessible environments for all.
Geffen’s publication underscores the strength of the PAA program’s practice-connected curriculum and faculty mentorship, which supports students in translating rigorous graduate work into contributions that advance the field. The NYU PAA program congratulates Geffen on this achievement and the impact her work will have on accessibility standards and audience inclusion across the performing arts sector.
