Dear Joy of Motion Community:

As Joy of Motion’s new Board Chair, I am writing to introduce myself officially, and to share some happy news. Last month, I stepped into the role of Board Chair, replacing Heidi Thiboheim who provided seven years of service on the board, four years as the Board Chair. I have served on the board since 2015 and am also the proud parent of a recent graduate of Joy of Motion’s Youth Dance Ensemble.

Over the past few months, the Board has been deeply engaged in a search for a new Executive Director for Joy of Motion. We heard you – our dancers, families, teachers, staff, and audience members – in telling us that you want a leader who is inspirational, knows the dance world, and can engage all of us in our shared mission/goals through passion and innovative leadership. It is my pleasure to announce that Mary Chase will be Joy of Motion’s new Executive Director.
Mary brings an extensive background in dance education, administration, and performance. She impressed the board and senior staff with her artistry, her attention to detail, sincerity, listening skills, and her unique combination of visionary ideas for Joy of Motion’s future, which embody deep respect for our history and roots.

For the past 19 years, Mary has been an administrator, professional artist and educator living and traveling throughout the United States and in twenty-six countries around the world. Since 2017, she has been teaching Ballet and Modern technique, Dance Anatomy, and Dance & World Cultures at The University of Tampa while directing her company, Chasedance. Mary, her husband Timothy, and their children Anne (11) and Isaac (5) are excited about their upcoming move and making Washington, DC their home.

Our Interim Executive Director, Julie Meyer, will continue to lead Joy of Motion for the next few months until Mary takes the helm on January 6, 2020.

With Mary’s leadership and our newly strengthened and dedicated central staff, Joy of Motion will thrive and grow. Under her leadership, we will endeavor to bring quality dance education to more and more diverse students in the greater DC area.

Wishing you the best for the upcoming holiday season.

Warmly,
Natalie Adler
Chair, Joy of Motion Board of Directors