Mishawaka, Ind. - On March 6, 2025, award-winning actor Adam Driver made headlines with his surprise visit to his hometown of Mishawaka, Indiana, where he engaged with students from the local community. Driver, acclaimed for his diverse roles, including the infamous Kylo Ren from the Star Wars saga, spoke to students at the Robinson Community Learning Center (RCLC) and Mishawaka High School, sharing insights from his illustrious career.
The day began at the RCLC, where Driver participated in an engaging discussion with the youth theater program members, providing lessons and inspiration to students ranging from grades three to 12. He enthusiastically interacted with the students as they performed, particularly during their readings of the Shakespearean soliloquy, “To be, or not to be.” Following the reading, Driver asked the students, “Do you guys like it, does it make sense to you?” A conversation ignited about the themes of life and existence within Hamlet’s words.
Driver, who grew up just down the road from the RCLC, reminisced about his own formative years at Mishawaka High School, where he first developed his passion for acting. “High school was when I got excited about acting. … It felt like we could do whatever we wanted,” he reflected. He emphasized the significance of formal education, stating, “Going to school was a big thing because I didn’t know anything about acting. ... Going to school for four years to kind of develop a way to work was really helpful.”
The actor’s visit lasted approximately 45 minutes, which included opportunities for students to take pictures and receive autographs. Jennifer Jermano Miller, the RCLC’s theater and fine arts program director, praised the visit, saying, “I really love he told the students school is so important,” reiterates Driver’s commitment to uplifting young talents from smaller communities.
Earlier on the same day, Driver was part of a panel discussion and Q&A session at the Philbin Studio Theatre, where he addressed about 40 students and faculty members. Topics ranged from the audition process, collaboration with industry professionals such as agents and casting directors, to the rising influence of streaming services on filmmaking. Here, Driver voiced his belief, asserting, “I still have faith in theater. That’s how I love to see films. There’s nothing like being in a room with people watching a film.” His candid responses and willingness to share experiences reflected his warmth and approachability.
Throughout the discussions, Driver took questions from students, showcasing not just his vast knowledge but also genuine interest. Mason Kacmar, a junior transfer student, expressed his delight at Driver’s surprise visit. Kacmar shared his own experience as an extra alongside Driver in “White Noise,” noting, “It was surreal seeing him,” emphasizing how significant Driver’s presence was for him and his peers. The excitement was palpable as students reacted with enthusiasm: “Oh, my God! Oh, my God!” was the exclamation from one starstruck attendee.
The youth’s response and the appreciation exhibited during Driver’s visit accentuate the importance of connections and mentorships, particularly for those pursuing careers in the arts. Kacmar described Driver's demeanor as “really grounded,” noting he appeared engaging and relatable, which left students feeling inspired.
Later, Driver met privately with military veteran students to share insights. He and his wife, Joanne Tucker, founded Arts in the Armed Forces to support veterans through the medium of arts. “For me, the arts was a massive way of kind of transitioning back to civilian life,” Driver explained, identifying similarities between acting and military life—both relying on team collaboration to achieve unique results.
The impactful day concluded not just with memories for those present, but with gratitude from the Mishawaka High School as well, which expressed appreciation for Driver’s time and effort to inspire the next generation. Driver’s genuine interactions and encouragement establish him not just as a successful actor but as someone who cares deeply about empowering youth.
Highlighting his commitment to helping aspiring performers, Driver said, “If you can give someone a small push to pursue the arts, I think that's important,” attesting to his belief in fostering creativity, especially within smaller towns.
Organized through the combined efforts of the Notre Dame Office of Public Affairs, and the Department of Film, Television and Theater, Driver's visit was undoubtedly more than just another celebrity drop-in; it was about reconnecting with roots, engaging with aspiring talent, and reinforcing the significance of arts education.
To sum up this remarkable day, students left with their own aspirations ignited, encapsulating the unmistakable impact of community role models like Adam Driver.