Photo: USC Kaufman BFA Student Jessica Muszynsky | Photo by Rose Eichenbaum

Faculty News

A man wearing a green shirt and a black and white scarf smiles over his shoulder

March 23, 2021

Celebrating Forsythe’s contributions to USC Kaufman

William Forsythe played an integral role in providing foundational knowledge for USC Kaufman in its infancy. From the beginning, Forsythe has imparted his modern wisdom on the School of Dance in his approaches to ballet, improv, composition and more. Now, as he prepares to move on after this semester, his colleagues celebrate his lasting impact.

Four dancers rehearse in a studio

February 9, 2021

Announcing new Artists in Residence: Spring 2021

This spring, the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance welcomes three new Artists in Residence with diverse choreography experiences. These new artists – Dwight Rhoden, Micaela Taylor and Doug Varone – will join fellow Artists in Residence Marjani Forté-Saunders and Victor Quijada in working with the BFA students this semester.

Dancers wearing red and black

January 26, 2021

Announcing Spring 2021 Repertory and Guest Artists at USC Kaufman

Every school year, USC Kaufman proudly offers its students the opportunity to learn a variety of renowned repertory and to work with some of the most distinguished artists in the field. Even though instruction remains online, USC Kaufman looks forward to continuing this tradition in the Spring 2021 semester.

Tiffany Bong dances in line with students in a USC Kaufman studio

October 6, 2020

Spotlight on USC Kaufman hip-hop faculty

Learn about some of the hip-hop faculty working with BFA students this semester, including lecturer Tiffany Bong, Assistant Professor of Practice E. Moncell Durden, Associate Professor of Practice d. Sabela grimes and lecturer Amy O’Neal.

Bruce McCormick jumping

September 23, 2020

Spotlight on USC Kaufman ballet faculty member

Learn about some of the ballet faculty working with the Class of 2024 this semester, including lecturer Gillian Finley, Assistant Professor of Practice Bruce McCormick and Artist in Residence Jermaine Spivey.

Full color headshot of Jackie Kopcsak next to black and white photo of her in an Italian pas de chat wearing a tutu

September 18, 2020

USC Kaufman announces Assistant Dean of Faculty

The USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance has appointed Jackie Kopcsak as Assistant Dean of Faculty. In this position, she will be involved in faculty assignments, mentoring, merit reviews, promotions and hiring, among other responsibilities.

Bret Easterling looking up with right arm raised

August 31, 2020

Bret Easterling discusses the nuances of online dance

Bret Easterling, USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance lecturer, had a summer full of Gaga. Now, he is ready to take on a full semester of teaching it to BFA and elective students alike. This movement language, developed by Ohad Naharin, focuses on guided improvisation through the exploration of physical sensations and available movement options.

Shannon Grayson dancing in a black dress

August 17, 2020

Shannon Grayson talks virtual dance classes

Looking for a way to stay active and get creative this fall? Shannon Grayson, USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance lecturer, will be teaching a variety of elective dance courses this semester. These include ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap and Horton Technique, a modern dance style class that is new to USC Kaufman this year.

Saleemah E. Knight teaching at KDC.

August 3, 2020

Catching up with Saleemah E. Knight

COVID-19 has paused life in many ways. However, Saleemah E. Knight, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Dance at the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance, has had an action-packed summer. Knight plans to bring the same energy to her classes at USC Kaufman this fall.

Achinta S. McDaniel teaching class

July 23, 2020

Fall elective classes with Achinta S. McDaniel

The reality of COVID-19 has granted ample time to explore hobbies both old and new. This fall, Achinta S. McDaniel, USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance lecturer, will be teaching three dance elective courses for students looking for a creative outlet. These include Bollywood, Choreography for the Stage and Screen, and Kathak, a style new to USC Kaufman.