History in the Making

Happy February!!!! How were we just basking in the "It's finally 2019" glow and now it's February? Like how? 2020 is right around the corner. Ya'll ready? Lol! What are you most looking forward to, this month? V-day? Ailey on tour? BHM?  I know I am especially excited to be catching a noted and beloved celebration from its very first day. Happy Black History Month!!!! While I am usually blogging about topics that are helpful and encouraging, today I had the idea of doing something a little different. I would like to shout out the individuals who have contributed to my blossoming journey as a dance artist, thus far.

Welcome to my world- black; making history.

1. Luctricia Welters, one of my greatest mentors, has been my director, teacher and dance instructor. What hasn't she taught me? When I couldn't see any potential in myself, she knew all along. Grooming me to be a strong, black woman in the field of dance was ingrained in me before I could comprehend the importance of realizing, of owning "who I am and whose I am"

2. Michael Medcalf was the director of my undergraduate dance program. The linger of his thoughtful and direct nature caused me to confront my crippling fear of greatness.

3. Davalois Fearon showed me the importance of sharing my unique story and that I can thrive and even making history in the face of adversity.

4. James Atkinson protected my growth at a highly critical and important time in my dance development. Under his leadership I was able to gain essential dance and life lessons that forced me to rise to the demand of my potential and to develop thick skin

5. Billy and Bobby McClain inspired me from day one. They ignited in me the passion and boldness of loving and celebrating who I am. Expressing that through my art and being unapologetic is a very important aspect I gained from these two amazing men.

6. Njeri Rutherford taught me how to stand my ground without having to say much- A meek spirit. Stepping into my passion without fear or reservations, just toting the mere fact of loving what I was blessed to do. She taught me.

7. Camille A. Brown taught me that the sky is the limit. True and honest work will always go before me. My gift will make room for me a put me before great men.

8. Delores Brown helped me to understand the strength of knowing where I belong and standing in that truth. Not to lay by just because others may cause opposition but to know, where I want to be, I deserve to be!

9. Before I could fully comprehend the gravity of dance longevity, Linda Celeste-Sims taught me the importance of body maintenance, the regal essence of dance and  dance excellence, no matter the genre.

10. When confrontation played on my personal insecurities, Whitley Green encouraged me to grow in self-forgiveness and allowance. She introduced me to some strong facts. My favorite being, "You can be all of that".

11. Raven Wilkinson helped me to realize the truth beneath a true and captivating artist. She gave me hope during a time when I was not sure what my dance future would look like.

12. Nena Gilreath taught me that there is always more to give and that there is always a higher level to reach. Quitting is never an option, excuses do not exist and excellence is the only way I should operate.

13. Waverly Lucas taught me that I am stronger than I had been believing, there's nothing to it but to do it and that ballet is a complete investment of mind and body. One last thing, I simply need to trust and embrace.

14. When I wanted to look for reasons why I couldn't step up and take a leap to into greatness, Karla Tyson taught me to always show up, be a leader and to smile during the entire process.

15. Lydia Abarca-Mitchell taught me to always dig deep for the essence of ballet. She also helped me to connect the legacy of Mr. Mitchell to work ethic and stage presence.

16. Dale Shields taught me to trust in my abilities and to always dance through my entire body.

17. Finis Jhung taught me the importance of dance from a science standpoint. To be precise and deliberate are some things I learned from him.

18. Edward Vilella taught me about the intricacies of ballet training and how it can strengthen from the bottom to the top.

19.  Misty Copeland taught me that pace is not indicative of success and reach. She also showed me the beauty and freshness of humility.

20. Stephen Simien showed me how to be bold, commanding and how to take ownership on and off stage.

21. Rosie Herrera taught me the importance and power of being wildly creative and thriving in more then one genre of dance. She taught me that anything can be beautiful and enjoyable for the audience when you are sincere and intentional.

22. Kavin Grant taught me that I can do anything with belief!

23. Robert Garland helped me to see that even in the midst of perceived defeat, I can dig deep and appreciate what I posses and all that I have to give.

24. Sandra Fortune-Green showed me that being direct is effective and that when you come into a room wearing all black, its OVER! (lol.. BIG FACTS)

25. Royce Zackery taught me that beside being an artist, is the important reality of professionalism and accountability.

24. Deshonna Pepper-Robinson taught me that I can be strong. I am strong.

25. Cleo Parker-Robinson taught me that I can embrace being a ballerina, but that I am more than that alone.


As more come to mind, I will add to this post. Thinking of everyone I have been influenced by, in one sitting has been a bit taxing but it is important to be noted. After all, our history needs to be preserved and shared. I am black, making history... the story continues...