Lydia Franco-Hodges, MFA

Alda-Certified Facilitator
Assistant Professor of Practice

Contact Lydia

"Do you think it's strange to teach improvisation and theater practices to scientists?"

Lydia avidly replied No to the question and a big YES, AND to the Alda Center.  Ever since, she has personally enhanced the communication skills of thousands of scientists and medical professionals at national laboratories, hospitals, medical schools, private corporations, foundations, and global initiatives throughout the country and world from NASA to Nairobi.

Lydia is an Assistant Professor of Practice at the Alda Center and the School of Communication and Journalism, an Alda Certified Trainer, designer and facilitator of professional development programs that blend applied improvisational theatre techniques with communication strategies. In addition to science communication curricula, she is the co-curriculum designer and co-facilitates for the Alda Center's Women in STEM Leadership Program. Lydia teaches Team Collaboration and science communication graduate and undergraduate courses at Stony Brook University.

Previously, she taught acting at Stony Brook University and in her classes created learning environments that encouraged students to move out of their comfort zones, take risks, develop their courage, and co-create with others.

Inspired by Alan Alda and the Center's mission, Lydia champions interpersonal connection and brings her vast experience as an actor, artist, and Alda facilitator to help others make a positive impact on and in our world.