Currently pursuing a BFA in Lighting Design at UNCSA (class of ‘29), I’m passionate about my endeavors always striving for improvement and perfection. In high school I was a National Honor Society member in the Technical Theater pathway at EASTCONN’s Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT) Performing Arts Magnet High School where I threw myself into every opportunity. For main-stage productions more recently, I’ve was entrusted with roles usually handled by teachers such as Head Lighting Designer and Technical Director. Also skilled in the scene shop with all major tools, I can design, order materials, and build a set nearly autonomously. I’m accumulating the experience and show credits of an early-career professional yet I still hunger for more.
Often described as a renaissance man, I’m well rounded from additional pursuits. I am a baritone vocalist having been a member of my high school’s Acapella Choir and the auditioned Select Choir under the direction of Katherine Popovic. I was also a member of the auditioned UCONN Joy! Conservatory Program which in addition to recital opportunities also funded a portion of my private voice lessons with Carolyn Fisher. Additionally, I participated in the Eastern Connecticut State University's Concert Chorale and was also the first-ever high schooler to join their auditioned Chamber Choir, both under the direction of Dr. David Belles.
Part of my drive comes from having a farm-tough work ethic. Outside of school, I’m a well-developed equestrian in the English equitation and hunter disciplines, having competed both individually and as a high-school team member in IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association). I’ve shown in national-level competitions and have won multiple large classes at state finals. With this has come deep love, respect, and horsemanship with those partners. I’m employed on the weekends at an equestrian center with duties ranging from horse care to substantial facilities maintenance. I pride myself in ring footing knowledge and grooming, and being onboard a tractor is another happy place for me. I’ve also taken a deep interest in course design and utilize a specialized leading professional software program.
Meet Andrew Grzywacz
My knack for seeing light and having an eye has also helped me grow my skills that started in a middle school photography class into an active business with a focus on equine and high school senior portraiture. This often requires using only natural light, though I’m versed with deploying multiple off-camera flashes when needed. My client base continues to grow through referrals. In the spring of 2025 I became a staff photographer for Winslow Photography and am flown to some of the country’s premier equestrian venues for shoots.
I also have a track record for leadership. In addition to guiding my peers at school, I was a junior captain of my equestrian team, served for a year-long term as the sole New England representative on the IEA National Youth Board, and was nominated by the youth board members to be their Vice President during the 2023-2024 season. I’ve led large-scale community service projects such as having therapeutic riding centers attend regional IEA finals throughout New England. This resulted in a mutually beneficial experience for their riders to attend an exciting competition and also for them to recruit volunteers and donations. I also lead a large-scale fundraising effort each year for my equestrian team that leverages my photography to earn thousands of dollars.
People say that I have a distinct “mission walk.” They can tell when I’m enroute to get something done. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to collaborate with you and bring my drive and talents to your endeavor.
Computer & Lighting Console Skills:
Vectorworks Design Suite (and obtained certification)
ETC Nomad
Capture
Lighting Consoles including programming: ETC Gio @5 4k and ETC Element 20
Adobe Creative Suite, especially Lightroom, Photoshop, and Premier Pro
Strides21 Equestrian Software Solutions (course design program)