Friends of Texas Academy of Ballet
TAB is in the process of forming a non-profit
group 501(c)3, Friends of Texas Academy of Ballet. The organization's purpose is to further the artistic
and educational mission of the TAB, by sponsoring its students in the learning of and participation in the
performing arts.
Friends of TAB Board of
Directors are: Larry Tipton, Chair; Tia Wells, Vice-Chair; Jodi Mixon,
Secretary; Sylvia Terry, Treasurer; Daniel Solario, Member at Large; James
Cory, Member at Large; Carolyn Bognar, Executive Director (Non-Voting); Sally
Garza, Administrative Assistant (Non Voting); Tamara Hudgins, Non-Profit
Advisor.
Membership in the Friends is open to anyone who would like to support the mission and goals of the
organization.
Scholarship Fund
It is our intention that the Friends of Texas
Academy of Ballet Scholarship Fund will provide classical ballet lessons to
underserved children in rural Texas. Some of our recipients will include
children in rural homes and first generation dance students. Other
scholarships will be awarded to existing students who mentor younger dancers.
Every child benefits
from quality dance training, even though he or she may ultimately choose
another career path. Through dance, children learn the cooperative teamwork
necessary to produce a group work of art. They develop creative thinking
skills and the ability to push themselves to higher achievements. They learn
about music and rhythm and are introduced to various cultures. They encounter
spatial relationships and must think with both sides of their brain while
learning to dance. All these skills are proven to enhance children's academic
performance, as well as their physical well-being. Self-confidence and
self-esteem continue to develop as a young person conquers new movements and
grows more certain of his or her ability to master difficult tasks. Working
through this artistic process helps a child find pathways to personal
integrity and self-assured adulthood. He or she enters society with a desire
to maintain a sense of uncompromising high standards, inspired by those
absorbed during dance training. -- Jodi Mixon
