Past Member Spotlights

"As a newer member of NCDEO, I joined to stay connected with what’s happening in North Carolina’s dance community and to spend time with others who share the same passion and challenges. Even in a short time, being part of NCDEO has given me the opportunity to learn, grow, and feel supported as both a teacher and an artist. I also enjoy the chance to explore different parts of North Carolina through the conferences."

“I joined NDEO right after I received my BA in Dance from the University of North Carolina at
Charlotte. I was starting a new position at a public school where I was building the dance
program. Before this, I had taught in the private sector for a long time, honing my skills and
gaining valuable experience. Being in the school system was a completely new experience for me. How was I going to teach and build a curriculum?  I got a mentor, Ms. Gina Spears, who was instrumental in my success as a public school teacher.  NDEO has also helped me with thedifferent journals and articles they have listed, which helped me receive my Master's in Dance Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro just last month."

“I joined NDEO at the behest of my graduate school colleague, Karen Bradley. Soon after, I
participated in NDEO Dance2025 project. That experience reminded me the importance of
developing a shared vision for dance and to continuing revise and renew that vision –
together.”

"When I moved to North Carolina, it took time for me to connect to the dance community in my area. I joined NCDEO and now I feel connected to NC dance. I love the way NCDEO brings people together in a supportive and friendly environment so that we can share what we love –dance!"

"I joined NDEO to find a supportive community where I could balance my roles as a dance educator and movement artist. Navigating the world of performing arts education can be challenging, but NDEO offers the perfect blend of academics and artistry. I appreciate NCDEO for providing opportunities to connect with fellow dance educators beyond my immediate circle, allowing me to share and access valuable resources I might not have discovered otherwise."

"I am a product of a North Carolina public school program. The trajectory of my life changed because of my high school dance program. What I love about NCDEO is that it creates space for programs to impact students across the state like I had through high quality instruction. The collaboration of all forms of dance programs creates visibility for all movers throughout the state and a community to support, celebrate and lean on."

"I joined NCDEO to connect, collaborate, and learn from other dance educators from across NC. I love NCDEO because I love attending conferences and sharing resources with others who are also learning how to be the best dance educators they can be."

“The connections and role models dance educators can find within their own community as a direct result of NCDEO is the reason I began attending and participating within the organization. I feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by professionals who are both educators and artists as I continue to navigate through my years as a beginning teacher. Each workshop I attend leaves me with new ideas to explore, new questions to ask about the art and teaching of dance, as well as new tools to take back to my students.”