Katherine Vockins, RTA’s Founder, has officially retired but her extraordinary leadership and vision will continue to make an indelible mark on countless individuals and communities.
It was Katherine’s vision and leadership that launched RTA at Sing Sing Correctional Facility 28 years ago when few civilians were venturing inside a maximum-security prison, never mind creating a theater program that recognized the humanity of incarcerated people. Today, RTA has impacted the lives of hundreds of incarcerated men and women and become a leader in the field of arts in prison programming.
A Journey of Transformation: Katherine’s Story
Katherine’s journey to founding RTA is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and action. Initially immersed in the world of international markets alongside her husband, Hans Hallundbaek, Katherine’s path took a profound turn when Hans pursued a deeper meaning in life, ultimately becoming an interfaith minister. It was in 1996, when Katherine followed Hans behind the walls of New York’s Sing Sing Correctional Facility, that her perspective underwent a seismic shift.
Seeds of Change: The Birth of RTA
Stepping into the reality of incarcerated life shattered misconceptions and stereotypes, opening Katherine’s eyes to the immense potential and humanity within those often marginalized by society. It was within the confines of Sing Sing that the seeds of RTA were planted, as a small group of men expressed their dreams of creating a play. From this shared vision, RTA was born—a testament to the power of collaboration and creative expression in fostering personal growth and transformation.
Reflecting on RTA’s inception, Katherine is forever grateful to the founding members at Sing Sing: Dewey Bozella, David Wayne Britton, Sean Dino Johnson, Derek Rogers, Robert Sanchez, Mark Wallace, John “Divine G” Whitfield and Vince Warren—each instrumental in shaping the program’s trajectory. What began as a venture into theater evolved into something far greater: a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, aptly termed ‘the process.’
Trust the Process: The Transformative Power of the Arts
Over the years, Katherine witnessed firsthand the profound impact of RTA’s programs on participants, as they embraced newfound possibilities through artistic expression. From completing drawings to learning dances and performing in plays, individuals within the RTA community discovered the power of achievement as a catalyst for personal growth.
“Throughout the years, I witnessed how finishing a drawing, learning a dance, or performing a role in a play gave incarcerated men and women a new sense of what is possible. For so many RTA participants, having experienced genuine achievement, they began looking to see what else can be accomplished – through academics, job training, or greater self-awareness.” – Katherine Vockins, RTA Founder
Katherine’s tenure at RTA has been marked by numerous milestones, including the receipt of grants from the Art for Justice Fund and the Mellon Foundation. Personally, she was awarded with an Honorary Doctorate from the State University of New York/Purchase College—a testament to her enduring commitment to social change through the arts.
Yet, for Katherine, the true fulfillment lies in the relationships forged with hundreds of RTA participants and alumni—individuals who, through their journey with RTA, learned to “trust the process” and harness the arts as a tool for transformation and personal-growth.
A Lasting Legacy & Continuing the Journey
As we celebrate Katherine Vockins’ remarkable legacy of impact on RTA, we are reminded of the profound ripple effects of compassion, creativity, and community. Her vision will forever guide RTA as we strive to empower individuals and foster positive change, one artistic endeavor at a time.
Thank you, Katherine, for your boundless dedication and inspiration. Your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who have been touched by your compassion and vision.
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Featured Photo: Katherine (bottom left) with RTA participants and teaching artists at Bedford Hills Correctional Facility.
