The recipients of the 21st annual memorial scholarships were recently announced at Debra Collier's School of Dance.
The scholarships, named in memory of former students Ashleigh Bruner, Shayleen Crites, Shay Dixon, Jacquline Egolf, Melissa Eigenberg Vogt, Emma Martin, Lori Rigsby, Madison Shipley, Payton Slaymaker and former dance parent Cindy Crane, were developed by the studio to provide financial assistance and to recognize and encourage students for their dedication and hard work. Each recipient submitted two letters of reference and a personal video answering a provided question. Applicants ages 5 to 10 gave a response to why they dance, and those ages 11 to 18 answered what they had learned from dance, other than the physical steps, according to a news release from Deb Collier’s School of Dance.
The recipients, Hailey Borsa, Mario Gardner, Kate See and Lillian Simpson, were selected by an independent selection committee of individuals who are not part of the DCSD faculty. Each recipient will receive a $500 scholarship for the 2025-26 season.
Debra Collier's School of Dance has been educating students since 1977 and offers a wide variety of classes for dancers of all ages and levels. The studio provides many opportunities for students to develop their interest in dance, including performance groups and workshops with guest teachers. Registration is currently open for the studio's summer session.
For more information about the programs offered, contact the studio at 574-267-7055 or visit collierdance.com.