Independence Community College is celebrating the continued success of theatre student Payton Sanders, recipient of the Margaret E. Goheen Memorial Scholarship, who has been cast as Anna in the Neewollah Community Theatre production of Disney's Frozen.
Sanders received the Margaret E. Goheen Memorial Scholarship during the 2026 William Inge Festival. The scholarship, which is applied toward the recipient's tuition for the upcoming academic year, is awarded annually to a first-year theatre student who has gone above and beyond in service to the theatre program and plans to return to ICC for a second year.
Originally established in 1994, the Margaret E. Goheen Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Margaret Goheen, who served as a full-time instructor at Independence Community College from 1963 to 1984. Goheen was instrumental in shaping the college's theatre program and founded the William Inge Festival, serving as its artistic director until her passing in 1990. Today, the scholarship continues her legacy by recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and passion for the performing arts.
Now, just months after receiving the scholarship, Sanders has earned one of the production's leading roles, further showcasing the talent, commitment, and work ethic that made her this year's recipient.
"Payton's accomplishments are exactly why scholarships like the Margaret E. Goheen Memorial Scholarship exist," said Cody Oates, Executive Director of the Independence Community College Foundation. "Donor support allows talented students to continue pursuing their education while developing their skills beyond the classroom. Seeing Payton step into a leading role like Anna is a wonderful example of how these investments help students grow both academically and artistically while carrying forward the legacy Margaret Goheen helped build."
Sanders' casting as Anna reflects the quality of theatre education and performance opportunities available through Independence Community College and the William Inge Center for the Arts. Students gain hands-on experience through campus productions, regional collaborations, and community performances that prepare them for continued success in the performing arts.
As Sanders prepares to bring the beloved Disney character to life during this year's Neewollah production, her story serves as a testament to the lasting impact of scholarship support and the opportunities it creates for students pursuing their dreams.
The Independence Community College Foundation proudly supports scholarships that invest in student success and preserve the traditions that have shaped ICC for generations. The Margaret E. Goheen Memorial Scholarship continues to honor its namesake by recognizing students whose passion and dedication embody the spirit of the college's theatre program.
For more information about the Independence Community College Foundation or scholarship opportunities, visit www.indycc.edu or contact the ICC Foundation at (620) 332-5630.