For Tracy Williams, theater was never just a profession; it was in her DNA. From childhood, she knew she wanted to be both an actor and a teacher, inspired by her father, a lifelong theater director and educator. “I had to have it my whole life.”
In a celebration filled with music, memories, and heartfelt tributes, MiraCosta College’s Williams was honored with the Kathy Brombacher Lifetime Achievement Award at the Oceanside Theatre Company Gala. The recognition celebrated her decades-long contributions to theater, education, community, and unwavering belief in the power of the arts to transform lives.
The evening highlighted Williams' accomplishments and the deep connections she has built through MiraCosta College and beyond. Alumna Carol Naegele introduced Williams with a moving tribute, followed by a duet from MiraCosta alums setting the tone for a heartfelt celebration. Williams, joined by her husband Christopher Williams, who was honored as the founding artistic director of Oceanside Theatre Company, delivered a moving speech that inspired the audience.
Her journey has spanned over four decades of teaching and countless productions, from Kansas to Arizona and finally to MiraCosta College, where she has taught and directed for over 20 years. Along the way, she has mentored hundreds of students, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in the arts. “The thing I am most proud of,” she said, “is that the hundreds of students whose lives have been better because we have known each other. That is what matters most.”
Beyond the classroom, Williams played a pivotal role in founding two theater companies still thriving today, the Southwest Shakespeare Company in Arizona and the Oceanside Theatre Company in California. Her leadership and vision have helped sustain the arts in a time when competition for funding and audience attention is fierce.
MiraCosta was also recognized as a proud community partner by Oceanside Theatre Company, reinforcing the College’s role as a hub for education, creativity, and cultural engagement.
About Tracy Williams
- Years of Service: 40+ years in higher education, 20+ years at MiraCosta
- Artistic Contributions: Directed dozens of plays and musicals, known for her story-driven vision
- Community Leadership: Co-founder of Oceanside Theatre Company and Southwest Shakespeare Company
- Teaching Legacy: Mentor to hundreds of students, many of whom credit her with shaping their professional and personal journeys
“Theater lifts us, theater heals us, and theater changes us into a place where we can be more human and more humane. That’s my why.”
