Community Members Speak Out on Future of MCC Music and Theater Programs as Tipton Hall Demolition Begins

McCook, Neb. – The future of music and theater programs at Mid-Plains Community College sparked concern at Tuesday night’s Board of Governors meeting, where longtime artist and MCC alumna Norma Stevens urged the college to keep the arts alive on campus.

Stevens, who first attended MCC in 1957 and has supported the college’s arts programs for decades, said the lack of music and theater events in the past year is troubling for both students and the community.

“This college has always held a soft place in my heart,” Stevens said. “I want to see it succeed, and I want to see the enrollment grow. The theater and music programs were once part of that success story.”

Stevens also told the Board that, as she understood it, no music classes or theater events were held at MCC last year — a change she worries could discourage future students and potential donors. She noted that local supporters have donated significant funds for theater equipment — more than $80,000 — and that scholarships exist specifically for music and theater students.

Don Harpst, a 1954 MCC graduate, also spoke in support of the programs, recalling decades of collaboration between the college and community theater groups.

Tipton Hall Demolition Underway

The discussion comes as Tipton Hall — which has housed the music and theater programs for decades — is already being demolished as part of the college’s facilities master plan.

According to the college’s January 15 work session minutes, the plan called for auctioning off remaining equipment earlier this year and replacing the aging structure with green space based on student and staff feedback. The college has not yet announced where the music and theater programs will be relocated.

College Response

MPCC President Ryan Purdy thanked community members for speaking out and said the college is committed to the arts but must adapt to current enrollment trends.

“We are big supporters of the arts, and we want to partner with the community to do something better in performing arts,” Purdy said. “It’s hard to sustain a full-time program when we don’t have the enrollment we saw decades ago, but we are open to partnerships and solutions.”

Purdy recommended that Stevens and other community members meet with MCC Vice President Kelly Rippen and other administrators to explore options.

What’s Next

No formal decision has been announced regarding the future of the programs, but discussions are expected to continue in the coming months.

Stevens said she plans to follow up with college officials soon.