FAYETTEVILLE, Pa. – Totem Pole Playhouse has been named the 2025 Non-Profit of the Year by the Chamber of Gettysburg & Adams County. The award was presented during the Chamber’s annual awards ceremony on May 7 by Stacey Schossler and Carrie Stuart, honoring the theater’s milestone 75th anniversary and its longstanding commitment to service and cultural enrichment throughout the region.
Totem Pole officials were deeply honored to be nominated and to stand alongside so many other incredible businesses making a difference in Adams County. In addition to the Chamber award, the Playhouse was recognized with a Certificate of Recognition from the Adams County Commissioner, a Citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives sponsored by Rep. Rob W. Kauffman (R-Franklin/Adams), a Congressional Recognition from U.S. Rep. John Joyce and Senate congratulations from state Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams)—a powerful show of support for Totem Pole’s impact on the community.
The award was accepted by Producing Artistic Director Ryan B. Gibbs, Managing Director Fern-Marie Aames and board members Isaac Bucher, Mary Ann Ober and Robin Wakefield, who were proud to represent the organization’s staff, artists and supporters.
“People often think of Totem Pole as just a summer theater in the woods – but we’re so much more than that,” said Gibbs. “We’ve been a nonprofit for decades, committed to offering affordable access to the arts. This recognition doesn’t just celebrate our past – it energizes our future. Moments like this help amplify our mission and deepen our reach. It’s truly transformative.”
Totem Pole’s educational and outreach programs have expanded by 30 percent in 2025 alone. In addition to its beloved two-week summer camps for youth and its annual holiday production at The Majestic Theater in Gettysburg, the Playhouse launched four classes this spring, serving over 20 local young artists with affordable professional development opportunities. Looking ahead, Totem Pole is preparing to debut new arts programming for elementary-aged students this fall, continuing to build pathways for young people to engage with live theatre.
The 75th anniversary summer Broadway season opens May 30 and runs through late August, welcoming the community to experience another summer of storytelling, laughter, and live performance under the pines.
For more information, readers may visit www.totempoleplayhouse.org.
