Dance Department Earns Top Honors at Regional ACDA Conference

JACKSON, Miss. (March 30, 2026) - The Belhaven University Dance Department recently celebrated a major achievement at the American College Dance Association (ACDA) Conference, held at the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. Belhaven dancers presented three works during the conference, including two student-choreographed pieces and one faculty-choreographed work.

Among 40 total performances, student choreographer Kellis Oldenburg’s piece, “Powersuit,” was selected by a panel of adjudicators as one of only 10 works invited to be performed in the prestigious Gala Concert, held on the final day of the conference. The piece was also chosen to open the Gala Concert, marking a significant honor for Belhaven University.

“Having ‘Powersuit’ selected by adjudicators for the ACDA Gala Concert, and as the opening piece, was an exciting achievement for both our dance students and Kellis.” said Krista Bower, MFA, chair and professor of dance and dean of the School of Fine Arts.  

Eighteen students and three faculty and staff members represented Belhaven at the regional conference, where participants engaged in master classes, research presentations, and five concert performances featuring collegiate dance programs from across the region

“Attending the American College Dance Association regional conference allows our students to train with dance educators from around the country, connect with peers, and gain a deeper understanding of the field they are entering,” Bower said.  

Audiences will have another opportunity to experience “Powersuit” during the Belhaven Spring Dance Concert, scheduled for April 9–11.