Dance department at TU named best in Maryland, among top 23 programs nationwide
Dance US recognizes Towson University’s Department of Dance in its recent list of the best college dance programs in the U.S.
By Rebecca Kirkman on July 18, 2019
Dance US, an independent online publication, recommended Towson University’s Department of Dance in its roundup of the best college dance programs in the U.S. for 2019 – 2020. The list includes 23 programs in 13 states.
The only Maryland university included, TU was highlighted as a center of excellence in dance education and artistry and commended for its rigorous training within the context of a comprehensive liberal arts education.
“This recognition just reaffirms the strength of our Department of Dance and its outstanding programs and faculty,” says TU President Kim Schatzel. “My thanks to all the faculty for their efforts in pursuit of excellence and the positive impact that results for our students, the university and the academy.”
It’s the department’s faculty and staff and conservatory-like training that set it apart from other programs, says Department of Dance Chair and Professor Catherine Horta-Hayden.
“Faculty and staff in the department are active professionals and scholars in the field. They are leaders contributing to and shaping the future of dance in numerous ways nationally and internationally,” she says. “Graduates from our program have gone on to be principal dancers and choreographers in prestigious companies, owners and artistic directors at private studios and teachers.”
It’s the latest recognition for the department. Last year, TU ranked 12th on OnStage’s list of the Top 25 College Dance Programs for 2018 – 2019.
“Receiving this recognition is an honor because there are so many outstanding dance programs in the state of Maryland,” Horta-Hayden says. “The level of dance education in the state is of the highest caliber and the diversity of dance programs offer a rich experience for any type of dance student along with opportunities to develop skills that will support them in a multitude of career paths.”
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Studying dance at TU
Towson offers professional dance training within the context of a comprehensive liberal arts education. Majors experience rigorous preparation to dance and create dance at all ages and stages of life—in professional companies, as educators and as arts advocates.
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This story is one of several related to President Kim Schatzel’s priorities for Towson University: TU Matters to Maryland.