Inaugural Scholarship Benefit Concert at UAZDance successfully raises $100,000!

The School of Dance at the University of Arizona celebrated a landmark moment on February
16, 2024, with the inaugural scholarship benefit gala held at our very own Stevie Eller Dance
Theatre. This event marked a significant stride in supporting student success within our dance
community, showcasing a captivating concert featuring esteemed performers from across the
country alongside local talents.
The evening unfolded with a crescendo of performances, as the stage of the Stevie Eller Dance
Theatre came alive with the artistry of the internationally acclaimed Hubbard Street Dance
Company, the rhythmic mastery of tap virtuoso Maurice Chestnut, the grace of Ballet Tucson,
and the dynamic UArizona School of Dance Ensemble. Hosted by School of Dance director
Duane Cyrus, the event also featured special guest speaker, Misty Copeland-the legendary
dance star and principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre.
Prior to the concert, attendees were treated to a series of enriching experiences, including a
reception in front of the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre and an exclusive VIP gathering in the
Melissa Lowe & Jory Hancock Studio. A highlight of the evening was a private Q&A session
with Misty Copeland, providing School of Dance students with a rare opportunity to glean
insights from one of the most celebrated figures in the dance industry.
The success of the benefit transcended the realm of artistic achievement, as the School of Dance
proudly announced that we had met our benefit goal, raising an impressive $100,000. These
generous contributions will be instrumental in providing vital scholarships to support the
aspirations of talented and dedicated dance majors within the school.
Junior Charles Palmer Jr., reflecting on the evening’s significance, expressed his gratitude,
stating, “Having a night full of community support was absolutely amazing! It was so nice to
interact with those who want to see the School of Dance thrive and support in any way they can.
It means so much to me and all the dancers in the program!”
The resounding success of the inaugural scholarship benefit underscores the unwavering
commitment of the School of Dance to foster excellence, nurture talent, and propel the
aspirations of the next generation of dancers. As the curtain falls on this remarkable evening, it
heralds not just an achievement but the dawning of a new era of opportunity and advancement
for dance education at the University of Arizona.
INAUGURAL BENEFIT SPONSOR
The Kasser Family
LEGACY LEADERS
Arch and Laura Brown Dr. Fran Orrok
GOLDEN ANGELS
Anonymous
Dr. Kathleen Assar Marlys A. Beider
Tom and Joanne Quebedeaux
COMMUNITY COLLEAGUES
Bob and Linda Berzok Christine DeFouw
Drs. Gail Burd and John Hildebrand John and Carol Ross
FRIENDS OF DANCE
Michael Godnick Wes Green Judith Ruiz Karen and John Sarikas Liz Schulman
OTHER KEY SUPPORTERS
Betty and Jay Citrin
Susan Tarrence and Stephen Golden Cande and Tom Grogan Morris A. Hazan Family Foundation Lynn and Chris Karabinas Jeffrey Mora
Carla Pasetti
SPRING SERIES PERFORMER SPONSORS
Fran and Jim Allen
Joyce Crain and Carl Philabaum Susan Duchin Gretchen Goswick
Dr. Fran Orrok
Linda and Ken Robin
We appreciate the tremendous support of all our donors and the many programs they support throughout the year.