Garlia Jones successfully defended her thesis — a play titled Against the Grain, which was performed locally in the Waldron Arts Center — in April 2007. Jones explained how she incorporated playwriting, casting, and directing into her work. Her committee was composed of professors John McCluskey (director), Edris Cooper-Anifowoshe (theatre and drama), and Iris Rosa. Several cast members attended the defense, along with other supportive students and faculty.