Rachel Tracie

Rachel Tracie serves as Associate Professor of Theatre at Biola University's Conservatory of Music, teaching courses in dramatic theory, directing, acting, and script analysis while actively advancing prison arts education initiatives.

Her academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre, Royal Holloway, University of London
• Master of Arts in Drama, University of Alberta
• Bachelor of Arts in English, Trinity Western University

Tracie's research integrates theoretical analysis with practical application, focusing on historical, social, and spiritual dimensions of performance. She specializes in Northern Irish drama—particularly Christina Reid's works—and champions arts-based rehabilitation in correctional facilities through transformative pedagogy.

Her publications consistently examine memory, identity, and conflict through theatrical lenses, with her 2018 monograph and 2009 book chapter establishing foundational scholarship on Northern Irish theatrical traditions.

Major recognitions include:

• PEN America L’Engle/Rahman Mentorship Prize (2021)
• Multiple Faculty Research Grants from Azusa Pacific University (2013-2017)
• College of Music and the Arts Artist Scholar Award (2014)
• Graves Award in Humanities from Pomona College (2010)
• University of London Central Research Fund (2004)

Tracie directs prison education programming as Writing Coordinator for the Prison Education Project and Board Member of Shining Light, securing grants including Azusa Pacific's Creative Teaching Mini-Grants for innovative curriculum development. Her conference presentations on prison rehabilitation workshops and theatrical analysis demonstrate applied research impact.

She collaborates with PEN America and Shining Light to develop nationwide arts curricula for incarcerated populations, emphasizing character development through theatrical practice.