When I began teaching dance it was 1976 and I was volunteering at the Far Conservatory in Birmingham Michigan. I moved to Grand Rapids after speaking to the founding families of the Down Syndrome Association in 1986 and began the journey to the foundation of Arts in Motion Studio.
The journey has been full of meeting amazing people and seeing the services that are provided for individuals with disabilities in our area grow and flourish. I am no longer the only place to learn new things and that makes me smile every time I hear of a new opportunity.
Years ago at a Chair Affair event, I talked about having a retirement plan with Molly and it turns out I needed more than just Molly. My job grew to be more than one person and so we discussed how to move forward. It was decided that Molly could support the studio by being our program director and she has more than excelled in that position. So it was on to find an executive director for my position and give them the time and support to also succeed in the position.
Our amazing supportive board felt having a six month support period would ensure a smooth transition. So the search began and we are so happy to announce that Lisa Glover accepted the position I can see already she is going to be able to make things happen. She has years of experience in the field and understands the unique needs of many of our students. I could not be happier to work with her for the best future of the studio.
During this process, I have come to feel that I have some unfinished projects that I am more than excited to have the time to complete before I retire. I will be focusing on these as well as teaching here and there when the new year arrives. In the meantime, I will be mentoring Lisa as she learns the ropes to creating the safe nurturing space the studio provides.
We thank you for your support during this transition and want to remind you that we do need financial support as well at this time. Here is to positive change and the flourishing of the arts.
You can read about Lisa on her Team page.