Eric Winkenwerder Memorial Scholarship for Theatre

This scholarship honors the memory of alumnus Eric Winkenwerder, celebrates Eric’s lifelong love of theatrical stage and event lighting, and honors his wife, UNC Charlotte alumna Suzanne Newsom. 

Eric Winkenwerder, owner of Wink Lighting,  passed away on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. He was a proud graduate earning a Bachelor of Creative Arts from UNC Charlotte. 

Throughout his career as a lighting designer, he shed his light on many stages for Playworks, Children's Theatre, Charlotte Repertory Theatre, North Carolina Shakespeare Festival, Omimeo, and the Moving Poets, to name just a few. As an event designer, his company illuminated celebrations throughout Charlotte and beyond. 

Whether designing lights at a country club, a home, or a theatre, Eric's desire was to take our eyes to what mattered most. Help honor Eric's life and legacy in the arts by supporting his scholarship fund with a gift of any amount.