Our story
SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater (short for Setting Educational Goals with Academic Excellence) was born out of a simple but powerful mission: to educate and inspire kids who aren’t thriving in traditional classroom settings.
We believe kids learn best when they’re engaged, having fun, and expressing themselves. That’s why SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater offers a hands-on, creative approach to learning—moving beyond the typical "paper and pencil" style. Our programs are designed to encourage creativity, resilience, and academic excellence, helping kids reach their full potential.
This idea was envisioned by Alissa Bingham, a long-time educator who saw, while working in a large urban school district, how many kids felt disconnected from their education. Alissa wanted to reignite their love for learning and create a space where young minds could flourish. That dream led to the creation of SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater —a place where experiential learning and the performing arts come together to help kids grow.
SEGWAE Performing Arts Theatre is currently in "good standing" with the state of Michigan and offers transformational programs for kids aged 5 to 14. Through the performing arts, SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater helps students unlock their potential, build confidence, and achieve academic excellence—setting them on a path toward a brighter future.
Our people
Alissa Bingham is the heart and soul behind SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater, a nonprofit she founded to empower kids aged 5 to 14 to overcome challenges and thrive. By combining performing arts with hands-on learning, Alissa helps build resilience and confidence in young people through creative, experiential education.
With nearly 30 years of experience as an educator, most of it spent in Detroit Public Schools, Alissa has impacted countless lives. Over the years, she’s worn many hats—proctoring standardized tests, tutoring local kids in reading and math, and helping students find scholarships for college. Her passion for education also led her to serve on the board of a charter school in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
Shanita Dotson has been a key part of SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater since day one, serving on the board as an operations lead and bringing her wealth of experience to the table. With 28 years in the customer service industry and 12 years in the mortgage sector, including her time with Rocket Mortgage, Shanita has developed a wide range of valuable skills that have opened many doors throughout her career. She even took those skills into real estate, where she thrived as an agent for four years.
Currently, Shanita serves as the head secretary in the Farmington Public School District, where she works closely with students, staff, and parents. Her diverse experience, combined with her dedication, makes her a vital asset to both the SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater board and the community she serves.
Adrienne Nelson is a dedicated board member at SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater, where she plays a key role in shaping the organization’s growth and impact. Her passion for service and her diverse experiences makes her an invaluable asset to the SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater team.
Adrienne’s career path is both diverse and inspiring. She began as a Medical Assistant, working with individuals facing mental and physical challenges, before transitioning into customer service, where she continued to make a meaningful difference. Adding to her skill set, she also earned a certificate in Real Estate.
Beyond her professional achievements, Adrienne is a respected leader in the Gospel community, having been ordained as both a Minister and Evangelist, further showcasing her deep commitment to serving others in all areas of her life.
You can get in touch with the SEGWAE Performing Arts Theater team
