- Launching diverse careers in dance to shape global dance leaders.
Overview
Founded in 2012 by a transformational gift from visionary founder Glorya Kaufman, the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance is at the forefront of shaping dancers, choreographers, and dance leaders for the future. By encouraging interdisciplinary and collaborative work, USC Kaufman seeks to transform the discipline of dance as we know it.
The school combines the artistic rigor of conservatory dance instruction with unparalleled academics offered by one of the world’s leading universities. As a result, students approach the study of dance from a global perspective, reinforced through collaboration with national and international artists. In 2016, the Simms/Mann Family Foundation established the Simms/Mann Family Foundation Endowed Dance Scholarship.
Desired Impact
The Simms/Mann Family Foundation Endowed Dance Scholarship provides support to USC Kaufman students entering their third year of the Bachelor in Fine Arts Program. Preference is given to students with an interest in dance therapy and/or dance education for youth, but others are eligible. Furthermore, the Simms/Mann Family Foundation serves as a member of USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance’s “Founder’s Circle,” which creates a legacy of support for dancers, choreographers, and dance leaders at the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance.
Charizma Lawrence
Current Simms/Mann Dance Scholar
Inspired by her older brother’s commitment to dance, Charizma hopes to use her knowledge and love of dance to forge a career in physical therapy for dancers.
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Aurora Vaughan
Past Simms/Mann Dance Scholar
After training in dance since she was a toddler, Aurora wants to cultivate the idea that dance is not only an activity, but it is also a lifestyle.
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Satori Folkes-Stone
Past Simms/Mann Dance Scholar
A blossoming choreographer and accomplished dancer, Satori hopes to teach dance nationally and internationally while developing dance work that focuses on Black narratives and Black catharsis.
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Ever since I decided I wanted to pursue dance on a collegiate level, I knew I wanted to go to USC Kaufman.”
