Choreographer and Director Mandy Moore | Photo by Lee Cherry

The USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance is proud to announce that Mandy Moore, one of the most influential figures in the world of choreography, will deliver the keynote address at the school’s 2025 commencement ceremony. A world-class choreographer, director, and producer, Moore has set new standards in the entertainment industry, making her an ideal figure to inspire the next generation of dance artists.

“It’s a thrill and honor to speak to the USC Kaufman graduating class of 2025,” Moore said. “The energy and passion that Kaufman students bring to the studio each day is a special kind of determination that is so necessary to succeed today. I can’t wait to see what these graduates do next and I’m looking forward to celebrating the next step in their journeys.”

“Mandy’s career and experience at the highest level of dance and entertainment is extraordinary,” said Julia M. Ritter, Dean of USC Kaufman. “When we talk about excellence, we point to people like Mandy. She is quite literally at the top of everyone’s list when it comes to making massively complex productions look seamless and ensuring that dance is a focal point of the magic. We are so very fortunate to have her join us for this year’s commencement and to share her wisdom with our graduating seniors.”

Moore’s work has earned her three Emmy Awards, alongside 12 nominations, cementing her status as one of the most respected and sought-after choreographers in the world. She is best known for her groundbreaking role as a producer and choreographer on the globally beloved television show So You Think You Can Dance. In 2017, she made history by becoming the first choreographer to choreograph the Golden Globe Awards, Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and Emmy Awards in the same year, marking a rare achievement in the entertainment industry.

Her extensive list of credits includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in music and film. Recently, she worked as the choreographer for Taylor Swift’s The Eras World Tour and on Babylon, directed by Academy Award Winner Damien Chazelle. Moore’s choreography also played a central role in the Oscar-winning film La La Land, alongside other notable works such as American Hustle, Silver Linings Playbook, and Stargirl. She has continued to shape the world of television with her Emmy Award-winning work on Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist and as a choreographer and producer on Dancing With the Stars.

On stage, Moore has directed and choreographed productions for some of the biggest tours and performances, including Dancing With the Stars Tour, Shania Twain’s Vegas Residency, and Celine Dion’s Taking Chances Tour. She has also contributed to Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, such as The Wedding Singer and Nobody Loves You.

Beyond her work in entertainment, Moore is committed to educating and mentoring the next generation of dancers, sharing her expertise through teaching and her role as a former Board of Governors member at the Television Academy.