In four decades, Dr. Donna A. Dragon has helped forge an innovative approach to teaching and learning through movement and dance. Now that effort is gaining the assistant professor some prominent recognition.
The National Dance Education Organization recently honored Dr. Dragon with its 2014 Outstanding Dance Educator Award, citing her leadership in developing curriculum that incorporates somatics – which integrates body, mind, spirit, and emotions – into teaching dance and other disciplines.
The Sagamore Beach resident, who joined BSU last year as dance education specialist, said she was “elated, surprised, and really honored” when she learned of the award, noting that past recipients have included leading figures in the field.
“It is quite a feather in our cap to have her on our faculty,” said Dr. Nancy Moses, professor and chairperson of BSU's Theater and Dance Department.
Prior to joining BSU, Dr. Dragon taught at several universities and at two schools that she also owned. She has also had a somatic movement therapy private practice.
“I really believe that every student should have the opportunity to experience her or his living, breathing body as a way of learning and knowing, expressing and engaging in the world,” she said. “So I offer approaches that engage the body in every course I teach.”
Clearly, that’s a winning philosophy. (University News)