Emily Whiteford Next Step Scholarship

Established by Mindy Decker & The Dance Collective

The Emily Whiteford Next Step Scholarship | The Dance Collective

Named in honor of TDC alumna Emily Whiteford, this scholarship recognizes the dedication, initiative, and work ethic that helped shape her journey from TDC student to current professional performer.

Emily's commitment to continued training serves as an inspiration to current TDC dancers and reflects the values this scholarship was created to encourage.

Who This Scholarship Supports

The Next Step Scholarship is awarded annually to a TDC dancer who demonstrates dedication, initiative, and a desire to continue growing through additional training and educational opportunities.

The scholarship is intended to support dancers who are willing to go the extra mile in pursuit of their goals and actively invest in their development as artists.

Scholarship Award

The inaugural 2026 scholarship award is $1000.

The scholarship provides financial assistance to support additional training opportunities that further a dancer's growth and development.

Examples may include private lessons, workshops, conventions, intensives, master classes, or other approved training experiences.

The Next Step

We believe growth happens when dancers continue seeking opportunities to learn, challenge themselves, and expand their training.

The Next Step Scholarship exists to encourage that pursuit and help dancers take the next step in their journey.

💫 Inaugural Award

The inaugural recipient of The Emily Whiteford Next Step Scholarship will be announced at The Dance Collective's 2026 Recital on June 14, 2026.

Beginning in 2026, the scholarship will be awarded annually to a TDC dancer who exemplifies dedication, initiative, and continued growth.

💫 Eligibility

Recipients must be current members of The Dance Collective. Graduating seniors are not eligible for consideration.

Scholarship Administration:

Recipients must remain active members of The Dance Collective to utilize scholarship funds. If a recipient is no longer an active member or is unable to use the scholarship, The Dance Collective reserves the right to award the scholarship to an alternate recipient.