Dance: More than just fun at UCM
Kisha Henry: Muleskinner
Issue date: 1/28/10 Section: Life & Leisure
|
"I love dance. It allows the body to express what no words are able to convey, and for the body and soul to connect in a way that no other art can," Miller said. "Movement can be one of the most powerful forms of communication and expression. Watching a person dance is like being allowed a glimpse into their soul, and you can take something and learn from every dance that you perform or see."
Miller has proven a good fit for UCM's new dance program. She began dancing at a young age and has credentials ranging from competitions to choreography and to performing with various dance companies.
"I began dancing in fourth grade when a dance studio opened in my hometown in Iowa, and I haven't stopped dancing since," Miller said.
At the dance studio, Miller became involved in many dance competitions, and was given opportunities to choreograph and teach there as well. During her teenage years, she was a member of her high school's dance team and was involved in all the school's musicals. She also traveled with professional instructors to assist in workshops throughout the U.S.
After she began her studies at Iowa State University, she realized her interest in modern, African, and ballroom dance and choreography. She went on to participate in the university's musical productions and studied for a summer with the Paul Taylor Dance Company in New York City.
After graduation, she taught dance in studios and public schools and worked for a non-profit dance organization, all while performing with a small modern dance company in Iowa. She received her Master of Fine Arts degree in dance performance and choreography from the University of New Mexico.
Knowing she wanted to pursue a career in higher education, she was seized the opportunity of becoming a dance instructor at UCM.
"With what the job would allow me to do as a teacher and as an artist, I was eager to apply for the position. I felt that it would be a perfect fit for me," Miller said.
"Watching [students] push themselves and take risks in their dancing is so exciting. Witnessing the personal growth of my students is the best reward of teaching. When that light bulb goes on for one of my students, I get excited. I succeed when they succeed," Miller said.
Be the first to comment on this story