Theatre Arts and Dance Chair Wins National Award
Professor Christine Cali, chair of the Theatre Arts and Dance Department, has received an Outstanding Leadership in Higher Education award from the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO).
“I feel valued and seen in the field of dance and more generally in the performing arts in higher education,” Cali said. “I have been beyond committed to embodied studies in higher ed, and awards like these validate that work.”
The organization recognized 19 awardees from across the nation who have "demonstrated excellence in creating ideas for programs, curriculums, and/or projects that have had a significant impact on their specific field of dance education and who has demonstrated leadership on a local, state, regional, national and/or international level," according to the NDEO.
Professor Cali reflected on the approach to educating that has earned her this honor.
“First and foremost, my work and engagement with students in the classroom, rehearsal space, and in performance, as a mentor, advisor, activist-organizer, and director. In my work, I am focused on removing obstacles, reducing harm, and building access and community. I seek to have these intentions at the forefront of every decision I make, and in every container I hold and shape as a teacher, mentor, advisor, department chair,” she said.
Professor Cali also expressed gratitude to the SSU colleagues and outside organizations she collaborates with that helped make the award possible. In late September, she joined other awardees as part of a panel at NDEO’s national conference in Bellevue, Washington, where she talked about: the impact that embodied learning, research, scholarship, and engagement can have for ALL students, in ALL fields of study; equitable and inclusive practices that dance can model for higher ed at large; and the purpose of art to engage, make-think, and transform anyone who participates.