September 22, 2026
For Claire Frederick (Class of 2013), the journey from Denfeld High School to the national theater stage has been nothing short of extraordinary.
After graduating from Denfeld, Claire earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Theater from St. Catherine University in St. Paul in 2017, followed by a Certificate in the Performing Arts Industry from NYU Tisch in 2021. Today, she is working as a dedicated theater artist and activist while pursuing her Master’s Degree in Theater for Social and Civic Engagement with a focus in Directing at NYU Steinhardt, set to graduate in May 2027!
Opening Doors to Big Dreams
Growing up in a household where pinching pennies was a way of life, attending a prestigious private university once felt like a far-off dream. Receiving the Armond Hauge Scholarship changed that perspective completely.
“Receiving this scholarship allowed me to actually consider, apply, and attend a private institution which felt like a far-off dream when I was younger,” Claire shares. “It allowed me to move to a city where I could make my dreams a reality.”
A Critical Turning Point
The tangible impact of the Hauge Scholarship hit home heading into Claire’s sophomore year of college. After working hard all summer, she realized her earnings were going to fall short of covering her tuition balance.
Panicked about the deficit, she soon discovered the Hauge Scholarship funds had not yet been applied to her bill. Once recalculated, not only was her tuition covered, but her summer earnings could now go directly toward textbooks and essential supplies. That crucial support kept her education on track without interruption.
Inspiring Change On and Off the Stage
Claire has taken that opportunity and run with it. Alongside her graduate studies, she works within Front of House operations for premier arts organizations—including the Luminary Arts Center (MN Opera), Pangea World Theater, Theater Development Fund (NYC/Broadway), and Distinguished Concerts International New York—while consulting with arts groups across the country.
Armond Hauge’s vision was to empower Denfeld graduates to reach their full potential, and Claire’s vibrant career in community-centered theater is a powerful testament to that mission. Certainly, Armond Hauge himself would be proud of Claire’s dedication to using the arts as a force for social change. Keep shining, Claire! ✨
Has the Armond Hauge Scholarship shaped your own journey?
Help us honor Mr. Hauge’s incredible 100th birthday milestone by sharing your personal story or a message of gratitude! Visit our Foundation Stories Archive to submit a note and explore more inspiring stories of Hauge scholars..