Summer’11 was one of the most life-changing summers of my life. I experienced the great, bad, and even ugly of living in New York City. Without your financial support, D.C., I wouldn’t have had the unique opportunity of studying in a different state for 6 weeks and meeting some of the most beautiful dancers there are.  Living in New York for an extended amount of time was a humbling experience. Training at the Ailey School for 6 weeks really gave me an idea of how living in New York and studying with a company would be.

Ailey is a very unique institution. The school is very sophisticated but very comforting. I took three dance classes a day and had rehearsal on Tuesday and Thursday. My favorite class was called Dunham. It was essentially a body conditioning class. Joan Peters, the instructor, changed my body completely with her exercises. I feel not only stronger but also even more so centered. Ms. Peters strongly emphasized working only from one’s core muscles and allowing one’s center to encourage the movement of the rest of the body. Because of your generosity. D.C., I was able to have a One-on-One, private conversation with the world renowned Judith Jamison. Ms. Jamison’s spirit is so warm and inviting, not superficial at all. We spoke of crazy experiences and how funny parents can act in public. I learned so much about the history of the institution and the principles it was founded on. I also feel that my performance quality and technique has improved.

Dance Council, I can’t express my gratitude enough. Thank you for your support and faith in my potential to change the lives of others through movement. You’ve truly helped in changing my life.

Thank you,
~ Omar Humphrey- Scholarship Recipient