We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dustin Delaune a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Dustin , so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome has been an ongoing process for me. When I first stepped into leadership roles, especially as President of Ascension Community Theatre, I sometimes felt like I wasn’t ‘qualified enough’ or that others had more experience. But I learned to shift my perspective—reminding myself that my passion, dedication, and willingness to learn were just as valuable as any credential. Surrounding myself with supportive peers, celebrating small wins, and recognizing the impact of my work helped silence that inner doubt. Now, instead of questioning if I belong, I focus on showing up, growing, and making a difference.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As President of the Board of Directors at Ascension Community Theatre, I have the privilege of overseeing and supporting an organization that brings the magic of live performance to our community. What makes our theatre special is the sense of connection it fosters—both on and off the stage. We provide a space where people of all backgrounds can come together to create, learn, and experience the power of storytelling.
One of the most exciting things about our work is watching how theatre transforms lives. Whether it’s a first-time performer discovering their passion, a volunteer finding a creative outlet, or an audience member being moved by a performance, the impact is real and lasting.
Looking ahead, we have some exciting plans for the future. We’re gearing up for our incredible 25th Anniversary season of productions! We welcome anyone who wants to get involved—whether as a performer, volunteer, or supporter—to join us in making theatre thrive in our community!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three key qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are adaptability, leadership, and perseverance.
Adaptability – In the world of theatre and leadership, things rarely go exactly as planned. Being able to pivot, problem-solve, and embrace change has been essential. My advice for those starting out is to stay open to learning and be willing to adjust when challenges arise. Flexibility is a strength, not a weakness.
Leadership – Leading a community theatre means balancing creativity, logistics, and people management. I’ve learned that great leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about empowering others, listening, and fostering collaboration. For those looking to develop leadership skills, I recommend getting involved in different roles, taking initiative, and seeking mentorship from those who inspire you.
Perseverance – There are always obstacles—whether it’s securing funding, managing time, or overcoming self-doubt. What’s made the difference is pushing forward with passion and resilience. My advice? Stay committed to your vision, celebrate small victories, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The road may not always be easy, but the rewards are worth it.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling a strong work ethic while always making sure I knew I was loved and supported. They led by example, showing me that dedication, integrity, and perseverance are the keys to achieving anything worthwhile. No matter what challenges I faced, they encouraged me to push forward and give my best effort, reminding me that hard work and passion would take me far.
At the same time, they always had my back. Knowing that I had their unwavering love and support gave me the confidence to take risks, chase my dreams, and step into leadership roles. Their belief in me made all the difference, and I carry their lessons with me every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.actgonzales.org
- Instagram: @actgonzales
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/actgonzales/
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