College of Education students selected to share the arts as Gogue Center student ambassadors

Three students from Auburn University’s College of Education were recently selected to be part of the Gogue Center Ambassadors organization for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Lauren Anderson, a senior majoring in music education; Marielle Burque, a junior majoring in exercise performance and health optimization and minoring in dance; and Anna Daniels, a senior majoring in exercise science and minoring in dance, were chosen for the organization, which provides a leadership opportunity for Auburn students dedicated to serving the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center.

The organization provides ambassadors with work across campus, within the Auburn community and beyond, acting as hosts and volunteers for Gogue Center-sponsored performances and events. This select group of students serves as a liaison between Auburn’s student body, academic departments and the Gogue Center, as well as with prospective students, alumni, donors, faculty and administrators.

“As a music education student in the College of Education, I have grown both as a musician and as a future educator, which has prepared me well for this opportunity,” Anderson said. “One of the most valuable parts of my preparation was having to teach in classrooms as early as my freshman year. Standing in front of a classroom of kids can be very intimidating, but because of that head start, I have been able to grow in confidence when speaking to all ages whether that be in front of a classroom, in an interview, or onstage. The classroom is a stage in a sense – you are the performer and the students are your audience. The goal is not only to teach information, but to present it in a way that is engaging, creative, and meaningful. I want students to walk away feeling energized to come back to the classroom the next day eager to learn. My experiences in music education have taught me leadership and communication skills and confidence, all of which have prepared me for this opportunity.”

For Burque, majoring in Kinesiology has allowed her to merge two of her passions: human movement through dance and the study of movement. Her career goals include becoming a professional dancer and a physical therapist for dancers.

“My major has enhanced my levels of critical thinking, collaboration and engagement with others, and academic self-discipline,” Burque said. “Having this opportunity to be a Gogue Ambassador will prepare me for my future career through learning how to network and putting myself out there to meet people in opportunities and engagements of all sorts. Being an ambassador will also continue to form me as a leader and a teammate, which I find to be extremely valuable, regardless of what career field you find yourself in.”

Additionally, Burque said she is looking forward to showcasing all that the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center has to offer.

“To be a Gogue Center Ambassador is a wonderful opportunity to promote the performing arts throughout Auburn that many students may not be aware of,” she said. “Ranging from celebrity appearances to Broadway shows to world-renowned musicians, the Gogue has so much to offer not only for the entire Auburn community, but for all of the students that step on Auburn's campus, too.”

Daniels shares similar career goals as Burque – hoping to become a professional dancer and a dance physical therapist.

“This opportunity allows me to be an official ambassador for all things performing arts,” Daniels said. “Some of my responsibilities include greeting patrons coming to shows, giving tours, and hosting various events held at the Gogue. This will also give me insight into the inner workings and details of the performing arts world.”

In her role, she would like to bring new outreach opportunities to the Gogue.

“I hope to share my love of the performing arts to the members of the Auburn community,” Daniels said. I also hope to share how wonderful Auburn is to the performers passing through.”

Anderson, who plans to work in entertainment at Walt Disney World through the Disney College Program after graduation, said the ambassador program will help her grow as a behind-the-scenes operator of a theater and in hostess skills that she can take with her to Disney and beyond.

“I would like to work with Imagination Campus as a guest talent coordinator, a position that works with schools that travel from around the world to perform at Disney World. This role is responsible for greeting guests, helping them backstage and coordinating performances. The Gogue provides a similar atmosphere of welcoming performers and audience members all while making sure everyone has what they need and are assisted throughout their experience. Gogue Center Ambassadors have a deep passion for the arts and are also knowledgeable about the history of the Gogue and the shows that grace the stage. We get to facilitate a warm environment by greeting the community and are prepared to answer any questions patrons may have.”

Gogue Center Ambassadors are named following an application and interview process, with selection based on academic standing, leadership skills, character, enthusiasm for Auburn, and a passion for the performing arts. To learn more, visit the Gogue Center Ambassadors website.