After three decades at McCain Auditorium, Terri Lee takes a final bow

For the past three decades, Terri Lee has provided the behind-the-curtain magic that has enabled McCain Auditorium to host world-class concerts, shows and performances.

Before the lights illuminate the stage or the first note fills the air, every successful performance depends on someone who understands how all the pieces come together — and for three transformative decades at McCain Auditorium, that person has been Terri Lee.

On Aug. 15, Lee will take her final bow as associate director, closing the curtain on 30 years of dedicated service.

Her passion for the McCain experience has not only shaped the auditorium’s productions, but also its lasting impact on the Kansas State University community.

Deep roots in Manhattan

Lee’s connection to K-State runs deep. A Manhattan native who graduated from Manhattan High School in 1978, she earned her bachelor’s degree in theater from the College of Arts and Sciences in 1996 while simultaneously working for the campus grounds department, a testament to her lifelong work ethic and commitment to K-State.

Upon graduation, Lee stepped into the technical director role, overseeing all theatrical aspects of McCain Auditorium’s stage operations. After a brief one-year stint as executive director at the Manhattan Arts Center in 2001, she returned to McCain to assume the associate director position — a role she has held with distinction ever since.

“McCain Auditorium has accomplished a great deal over the past three decades thanks to the important work of Terri Lee,” said Todd Holmberg, executive director of McCain Auditorium. “It has been an honor and privilege to work with Terri. She is among the most dedicated employees I have ever been around.”

Beyond technical excellence

Throughout her career, Lee has been integral to McCain’s day-to-day operations, managing everything from contracting and budgets to expanding the auditorium’s growing patron base and guiding major building renovations. Her technical expertise has undoubtedly enhanced McCain’s physical capabilities.

But Lee’s true mission extended far beyond equipment and logistics. She understood that her role was crafting lasting, memorable experiences for every patron, performer and team member who walked through McCain’s doors.

“We will miss her wisdom, guidance and sense of humor,” said Sandy Mead, office manager. “Her laugh will be missed daily.”

A legacy of mentorship

Over her years at McCain, Lee has cultivated a culture of trust, knowledge and friendship. Perhaps most importantly, her colleagues will remember her as a mentor who shaped careers and created lasting relationships.

Kyle McGuffin, current technical director and incoming associate director, credits his 26-year career at McCain to Lee’s influence and guidance.

“Terri gave me my start at the theater as her assistant in 1999, and working with her for many years has been a pleasure. I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor and friend,” McGuffin said. “It will be a tough task to fill her shoes. She has been such a huge part of my professional journey.”

The final curtain

While Lee’s daily presence may end with her retirement, the firm foundation she built through three decades of leadership will continue supporting the venue’s mission. In every carefully executed lighting design and every smiling face in the audience, Lee’s legacy will be present — a testament that the people truly make the place.

To celebrate Lee’s remarkable career and final day, the staff of McCain Auditorium invites community members to an open house with light refreshments. The event will be from 3-6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15, in the Loft, above the McCain lobby.