Faculty member Nhan Ho takes part in national dance conference

NATCHITOCHES - Northwestern State University Assistant Professor of Dance Nhan Ho was part of a panel at the recent National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) annual conference held in Bellevue, Washington.

Ho was part of the panel "Building Community Through Cohorts" that focused on how collaborative discussions and mentorship within diverse cohorts enhance teaching methods, foster inclusivity and build community in dance education.

"Our panel explored practical strategies for improving communication, collaboration and feedback within classrooms and studios," said Ho, who joined NSU's faculty in August. "We emphasized the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, demonstrating how these principles can create equitable learning environments and enrich teaching practices."

Ho said his participation in the conference allowed him to engage with leading educators and gain new perspectives on innovative teaching methodologies.

"These insights will directly benefit my students as I integrate fresh approaches to dance education into my courses and foster inclusive learning environments," said Ho. "Since returning from the conference, I have shared key takeaways with my students and will continue to implement the strategies and techniques I've learned. The research I conducted for the panel allowed me to explore diverse teaching methods, which I'm now incorporating to create more engaging and equitable learning environments. Additionally, the connections and insights gained from leading educators at the conference will help further enhance my students' experiences with innovative approaches to dance education."

Ho said taking part in a national conference has other benefits for the School of Creative and Performing Arts and the university.

"The professional connections I established at NDEO provide future opportunities to collaborate with guest artists, offer master classes and expand CAPA's reputation nationally and internationally," said Ho.

In future years, Ho hopes to get Northwestern students involved in the conference

"I had the chance to meet several undergraduates from other programs, and their involvement highlighted the valuable professional growth and networking opportunities these events offer," said Ho. "I believe our students would greatly benefit from attending, both for personal development and exposure to the broader dance education community."

Ho is a dedicated dance professional with extensive experience in performing, choreographing, and mentoring across the U.S. As the founder and artistic director of the Nhan Ho Project since 2010, he has created numerous opportunities for artists and showcased his innovative choreography at esteemed venues like sjDANCEco's ChoreoProject Awards and the West Wave Dance Festival. Ho has choreographed for programs at Sacramento State, San Jose State, Modesto Junior College and others. He has performed with companies such as BODYART Dance Company and PUSH Dance Company.

Ho holds an MFA in Dance from the University of Arizona and has presented at the Dance Studies Association (DSA) conference on the fusion of Limón Technique and Hip Hop. He is committed to fostering respect for diverse dance styles and preparing his students for a range of professional opportunities.

For more information on NSU's Department of Theatre and Dance, go to nsula.edu/theatre.

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