معرفی
Professor Catherine McNamara is Head of the Guildford School of Acting (GSA) at the University of Surrey, a leading institution in performing arts education. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic and student experience for over 650 students and 50 staff, ensuring excellence in training for careers in the creative and cultural sectors. Prior to this, she held significant leadership positions, including Head of School (Art, Design and Performance) at the University of Portsmouth (2019–2022) and various senior roles at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.
- MA, Drama and Theatre, Royal Holloway, University of London
- PGCE, Drama, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
- PG Cert LTHE
Her research is deeply rooted in social justice, focusing on Applied Theatre, gender studies, and trans and non-binary experiences in education and performance. She investigates how theatre and arts practices can empower marginalized communities, foster inclusivity, and address critical social issues. Her work often involves direct community engagement and has been recognized in the REF2014 Impact Case Study.
Her recent publications and projects reveal a strong trend towards using creative, arts-based methodologies to tackle pressing social problems. A central theme is the use of interactive storytelling and digital resources—such as Cold Chips & Money—to educate young people about child criminal exploitation and County Lines. Another major strand explores trans-inclusive performance practices, co-producing trans history, and developing models for supporting LGBTQ+ youth through arts-based youth work.
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (PFHEA)
McNamara actively supervises PhD students in areas of applied theatre, gender, and trans experiences. Her leadership in major funded projects, such as the Wellcome Trust’s 'Rethinking Sexology' and her own 'Tackling Child Criminal Exploitation' initiative, demonstrates a strong record of securing research funding and leading interdisciplinary, community-engaged teams. She collaborates with organizations like Gendered Intelligence, the Active Communities Network, and policing and safeguarding professionals.
She is a co-founder of Gendered Intelligence, a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. She also contributes to institutional governance as a member of the Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences Equality, Diversity & Inclusion committee and the University Academic Leaders Forum. Her work bridges academia, community activism, and public policy, making a tangible impact on both educational practice and societal understanding.
