Sharing the Stage
Emmy-winning actor Craig T. Nelson (“Coach,” “Young Sheldon,” “The Incredibles”) and Doria Cook-Nelson establish a major scholarship at the School of There, Film & Television.
Craig T. Nelson and Doria Cook-Nelson are establishing an endowment to support scholarships for undergraduate student in the School of Theatre, Film & Television at the University of Arizona.
Photo by Kerryn Negus.
In the fall of 1965, Craig T. Nelson drove a 1956 Studebaker from his home in Spokane, Washington, to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona on a drama scholarship. He left during his senior year to start a five-decade-plus career in film and TV. You might know him as Coach Hayden Fox on “Coach” (where he won an Emmy) or Coach Dale Ballard on “Young Sheldon.” You might know him as Zeek Braverman on “Parenthood” or the voice of Mr. Incredible from “The Incredibles.” That’s him.
Mr. Nelson urged students to share their stories of struggle amid moments of achievement as keynote speaker at the Spring 2024 Graduation Ceremony.
Chris Richards/University Communications
Now, Nelson — who has long supported the U of A’s school of Theatre, Film & Television — has joined Doria Cook-Nelson in establishing a major endowment to support TFTV undergrads facing financial need. The scholarship, called the Craig T. Nelson and Doria Cook-Nelson Scholarship Endowment, is designed specifically to support first-generation college students, students who are married and/or students with children.
“This scholarship endowment will have a profound impact, ensuring that talented, hardworking students — especially those balancing education with family responsibilities — have the support they need to pursue their artistic dreams,” said Andy Schulz, vice president for the arts and dean of the College of Fine Arts, who is in the role through June 2025.
“The University of Arizona gave me the foundation to build a career doing what I love,” Nelson said. “Doria and I want to support students who have the passion and dedication to pursue their dreams but may need financial assistance to do so. We hope this endowment makes a meaningful difference and allows students to build careers that they love.”
Craig T. Nelson speaks with TFTV students.
Jona Bustamante
Nelson’s mentor during his tenure here was Peter R. Marroney, who led the U of A’s theater department for 36 years and for whom the Marroney Theatre was named. In 2024, the stage of the theater was renovated and named in honor of Nelson.
Learn More About Craig T. Nelson
Actor, Producer and Director
Chris Richards/University Communications
Craig T. Nelson is best known for his Emmy-Award-winning role as Hayden Fox on the TV series “Coach.” Most recently he guest-starred for five seasons in the CBS show “Young Sheldon” as ‘Dale Ballard,’ ‘Meemaw’s (Annie Potts) love interest and now reprises his role in the spin off, “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage.” His most recent films include "The Proposal", "The Incredibles" and "Wonder Woman".
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