TOWSON, MD—Stephanie Powell, a dance education teacher at George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, has been awarded the Maryland Dance Education Association’s (MDEA) 2024 Living Legacy Award. The award recognizes Powell’s exceptional contributions to dance education in Maryland, spanning over 40 years.

MDEA President Sandra Atkinson presented the award, acknowledging Powell’s profound impact on the state’s dance landscape through her work at Carver Center, Baltimore Dance Tech, and beyond. Darryl Pilate, BCPS dance and theatre specialist, praised Powell’s dedication, innovation, and passion for dance, highlighting her role in mentoring the next generation of artists.

Powell holds a bachelor’s degree in dance education from Goucher College and a master’s in general studies and humanities from Johns Hopkins University. Her extensive experience includes serving as the artistic director of several dance companies, including the Stephanie Powell DanseEnsemble, and directing Baltimore DanceTech Inc. She previously dedicated 21 years to the Baltimore School for the Arts faculty before joining Carver Center.

Powell’s former students have danced with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Lines Ballet, Boston Ballet, Cullberg Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, and The Juilliard School. Dancers trained under her have performed with renowned companies such as The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Lines Ballet, Boston Ballet, and have been featured on Broadway productions like “The Lion King” and “The Color Purple.”

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.