Ellie Russell

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"For the past 12 years, dance has brought me so much joy and emotion that I feel everyone should be able to experience. I have been very fortunate to have trained at a well established studio prior to college, travel across the country for dance, and now pursue a degree in dance as well. The dance world is often seen as an exclusive environment that not many people besides the most privileged have access to. In the past, I have been able to volunteer and be a mentor in a program that allows children with mental and physical disabilities to take part in a dance class catered to their needs every week. This program opened my eyes to how we as a dance community can make dance more accessible and inclusive to all people regardless of ability, background, financial status, and/or any other factors.”