Students petition for dance program to be re-established
The word “dance” is a verb that many students at USU might not be exposed to. Dance is something that Krissy Smith-Fry refuses to let be forgotten. Smith-Fry is lobbying that an academic dance program return to USU and, according to Smith-Fry, she is not alone.
“Last year, we had a petition signed and we received over 5,000 signatures,” Smith-Fry said. “So there is a lot of interest and support.”
In 2007, Smith-Fry founded two dance companies, Full Circle and Vilociti, to give students “who love the dance the opportunity to do so,” according to the club’s description on the ASUSU website.
With dance programs at surrounding universities, USU is the only university in Utah without a dance department.
USU Ballroom Dance Company President Chantel Knudson said, “I would definitely say we need one. Not only are we the only university without a program, but we are missing a cultural and aratistic side that a dance program would bring.”
This has not always been the case. USU had previously accommodated a dance program through the department of health, physical education and recreation. Juan Carlos-Claudio, visiting performer, is a USU dance alumni that graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in dance.
In regards to the absence of dance at USU, Claudio said, “It is really sad. Dance is an integral part of the human experience. We need to have dance.”
Senior Makeda Trujilla, who is the former vice president of the Full Circle Dance Company, said his involvement with Full Circle improved his experience at USU.
“I’ve seen unbelievable bonds made in new friendships, and I’ve seen how dancers have learned how to work through problems in very productive ways,” Trujillo said. “At performances, I have seen spectators brought to tears and burst in laughter.”
Trujillo said every dancer he has known would love the opportunity of dancing in college, whether through a class, a company or a major.
“It just something I know any dancer would be interested in,” Trujillo said.
If a program is instated, Smith-Fry believes it will draw in more prospective students. Other benefits that she believes could potentially occur would be a theater and fine arts program.
With the Caine School of the Arts birth, Smith-Fry is hopeful for the future of her endeavors.
Smith-fry said, “We just keep pushing. We don’t let it rest and with Dr. Craig Jessop’s help, we really are making strides. I am not a person that responds to the word ‘no,’ so I just keep trying.”
Smith-fry said her largest obstacle is funding but will continue to push forward efforts as USU endures upcoming budget changes.
As for now, Smith-Fry will continue to direct her companies and share her passion for dance as she teaches at USU.
– jessie.a.sweat@aggiemail.usu.edu