Alumni Appreciation Month: Bri McWhorter ’14 transforms acting tools into powerful communication strategies

UC Irvine Department of Drama alumna empowers individuals and organizations through her company, Activate to Captivate

For Bri McWhorter (M.F.A. Drama, ’14), theater training became the foundation for a unique career in communication. As Founder and CEO of Activate to Captivate, McWhorter draws on acting tools to help people across the country present with clarity and confidence. From scientific communication and keynote speeches to interview prep and executive coaching, McWhorter empowers individuals and organizations to tell their stories in ways that resonate.

“I discovered my love for teaching while I was getting my M.F.A.,” said McWhorter. “I hadn’t had the opportunity to teach before, so being able to build a curriculum, work with students, and see their growth was transformational for me. It set me on a path that I’m incredibly thankful for.”

Her time at UC Irvine’s Claire Trevor School of the Arts left a lasting impact on both her artistry and her career. Working with renowned faculty like the late Professor Emeritus Robert Cohen, she honed vocal and momentum-building techniques that she now passes on to clients. Professor Phil Thompson’s monologue breakdowns, focused on dissecting thought processes and transitions, also became central to her current coaching style.

“Being able to work with Robert Cohen was amazing,” said McWhorter. “He had so many exercises focused on building your voice and momentum in a speech, which I still use today. He had a deep respect for text and commitment to the craft that I admire.”

McWhorter also recalls her time on stage with the New Swan Shakespeare Festival, where she performed during the program’s first two seasons. Playing Hermia in A Midsummer Night’s Dream remains one of her favorite memories. “I remember having as much fun onstage as I did offstage,” she said. “The whole cast had a blast every night bringing that show to life.”

Image: Bri McWhorter as Hermia in A Midsummer Night's Dream at the New Swan Shakespeare Festival.

In 2025, McWhorter returned to campus in a distinguished role as Mace Marshal for UCI Arts’ Commencement ceremony. Only alumni hold this honor, leading the processional and opening the formal celebration of graduates.

Her training at UCI Arts not only sharpened her skills as a performer but also gave her tools to help others manage nerves and tension. Today, she leads workshops at top universities, consults with companies and partners with scientific foundations, helping clients connect authentically with their audiences.

“The ripple effect is one of the most powerful things I’ve seen in my career,” said McWhorter. “If you just focus on the moment, on helping the person in front of you, it will lead to opportunities you never dreamed of.”

To learn more about the Department of Drama, visit drama.arts.uci.edu. To learn more about activate to captivate, visit activatetocaptivate.com.