I am a passionate advocate for dancer health and wellness. Over the course of my career I have explored and expanded the growing field of dance science. As an active member of the International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS), I have served on the IADMS Board of Directors and am currently co-chair of the Dance Educators' Committee. Throughout my career I have spearheaded several initiatives that help to support the field and guide my academic journey.
- Research: Publishing and presenting research is a vital part of moving the field of dance medicine forward. I have published several papers, two for the Journal of Dance Medicine and Science (JDMS), one of the leading journals in Dance Medicine, and one for the IADMS online Teacher's Supplement. Additionally, I have presented all over the world at the IADMS annual conferences and at the PAMA annual symposiums. I am currently researching dynamic alignment of the knee and pelvis, the effects of fatigue, and the integration of wellness based training into the classroom and University environment. In addition, I am presently working as a contributing author for two book chapters in upcoming dancer wellness and research texts.
- Dancer Wellness Screenings: Students are individually screened for muscular imbalances, structural abnormalities, and overall well-being. These screenings allows dancers to ask specific questions relative to their dance technique, while enabling instructors to gain a deeper understanding of the specific needs of each dancer.
- Faculty mentor and advisor: I currently serve as faculty advisor for the student organization Carolina Dance Science, established by myself and students interested in the field of dancer wellness. In addition, I mentor several dance science research projects each semester, adding to the body of knowledge and supporting the integration of wellness into the dance program.
- BFA in Dance Science: This degree track was implemented within the department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Wyoming and prepares students to pursue advanced degrees in physical therapy, dance science research, dance therapy, medicine, or a range of related careers. The students supplement their training with outside courses in psychology, nutrition, and kinesiology, while still maintaining the highest level of dance technique. This degree track prepares students to pursue advanced degrees in physical therapy, dance science research, dance therapy, medicine, or a range of related careers.
Articles
| Analysis of Pelvic Alignment in University Ballet Majors, JDMS V11.4 |
| A Screening Program for Dancers Administered by Dancers, JDMS V13.3 |
| Improving Pelvic Alignment, IADMS Online Teacher's Supplement, V1.1 |