OUR WORK
TEAMING UP WITH LOCAL LEADERS
IADMS's mission is to enhance the health, well-being, training, and performance in dance by cultivating medical, scientific, and educational excellence.
At IADMS, our work is focused on meeting the medical, training, and performance needs of the dance community. Together, with dedicated active leaders in dance medicine and science, and local partner organizations, our programs are making dancers and performers across the globe safer and healthier. We offer a wide collection of public and members-only resources and publications that are guided by research and clinical findings in the field. We invite you to explore all we offer and to join us in our mission to improve dancer health and the use of dance to improve health outcomes.
OUR HISTORY
IADMS was officially formed in 1990, led by Allan Ryan, MD, and Justin Howse, MD, with the goal to enhance the health, well-being, training, and performance of dancers by cultivating medical, scientific, and educational excellence while promoting an active network of communication between dance and medicine. IADMS began as a direct result of the National Dance Association’s Committee on Dance Science and Medicine, which was initiated by Dr. Ryan, and included other notable individuals, including Jan Dunn, MS, Martha Myers, MA, Janice Plastino, PhD, Ruth Solomon, Emeritus, and Robert Stephens, DO.
In 1996, IADMS was registered as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, organized under the United States of America. As a 501(c)(3), IADMS does not participate in any political activities and directly prohibits its members from participating in such activities within the discussion sections of this website. All donations to IADMS are 100% tax-deductible.
OUR TEAM
OF EXTRAORDINARY AND DEDICATED INDIVIDUALS
IADMS is supported by a diverse and international group of leaders and individuals actively connected with the healthcare, research, education, administration, and supervision of dancers.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
IADMS board members are elected by its membership to represent the constituency and provide guidance and expertise to advance the organization’s mission.
President
After moving from being a principal dancer with eminent ballet companies, Peter retrained as a dance educator and an osteopath. He has been involved with IADMS for nearly 20 years in a variety of roles. Today, Peter is President of IADMS, using his dancing, osteopathic, and academic experience to give leadership and innovation. Simultaneously Peter is studying for his Ph.D. and supports the Princesses Grace Dance Academy and the Ballets de Monte-Carlo in Monaco as a resident osteopath as well as the Rosella Hightower School in Cannes/ Mougins, France. Peter and his team are now leading IADMS into a digital-driven post-Covid world.
Vice-President / President-Elect
Nancy Kadel is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle reconstruction. Her academic interest and passion is the care of dancers. She studied dance and science at Sarah Lawrence College, USA, was a scholarship student at Jacob’s Pillow, and performed with several dance companies. She graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, fulfilled her residency training in Boston at the Harvard Orthopaedic program, and completed a Foot and Ankle fellowship at the New England Baptist Hospital. She has taught ballet and modern dance classes, and she has choreographed several works.
In San Francisco, Nancy served as Medical Director of the Healthy Dancers’ Clinic, a free injury prevention and screening clinic for dancers housed in the ODC Dance Commons. In Seattle, she volunteers at the SeaPAM Performing Arts monthly clinic. She has lectured internationally on dance injury prevention and published original research on stress fractures, surgical techniques, and dance biomechanics.
As an IADMS member since 2003, Nancy has attended most of the Annual Meetings, and she has served as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. She worked to get continuing medical education/CEU accreditation for the Birmingham and Washington, DC meetings. She is currently Co-Chair of the Dance/USA Task Force, and she serves on the Dance/USA Executive Board of Trustees. Nancy sits on the Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA), and she has recently completed her term as President of PAMA from 2014–2016.
In San Francisco, Nancy served as Medical Director of the Healthy Dancers’ Clinic, a free injury prevention and screening clinic for dancers housed in the ODC Dance Commons. In Seattle, she volunteers at the SeaPAM Performing Arts monthly clinic. She has lectured internationally on dance injury prevention and published original research on stress fractures, surgical techniques, and dance biomechanics.
As an IADMS member since 2003, Nancy has attended most of the Annual Meetings, and she has served as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. She worked to get continuing medical education/CEU accreditation for the Birmingham and Washington, DC meetings. She is currently Co-Chair of the Dance/USA Task Force, and she serves on the Dance/USA Executive Board of Trustees. Nancy sits on the Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA), and she has recently completed her term as President of PAMA from 2014–2016.
Past President
Peter E. Lavine, MD, is an orthopaedic surgeon in the Washington DC Metro area, specializing in sports & performing arts medicine, general orthopaedic surgery, trauma, and adult reconstructive surgery. His practice includes professional and pre-professional dancers & performers.
Dr. Lavine has served as Orthopaedic Surgery consultant for the Kirov School of Ballet, Washington Ballet Medical Alliance & School, Cirque du Soliel, as well as, world renown professional dance & ballet companies performing at Kennedy Center, National and Warner Theaters.
Dr. Lavine has been active in IADMS serving as a Member at Large and on the Editorial Board of Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. Dr. Lavine has been a contributor to the Performing Arts Medicine Association and a regular IADMS meeting contributor. Dr Lavine has numerous leadership & media positions as Chairman & President - Medical Society of Washington, DC, and AMA Delegate & AMA Council Member.
Dr. Lavine did his undergraduate at Washington University, medical training & orthopaedic surgery residency at Georgetown University Medical Center, and AO Fellowship with Professor Reinhold Ganz in Switzerland.
Dr. Lavine has served as Orthopaedic Surgery consultant for the Kirov School of Ballet, Washington Ballet Medical Alliance & School, Cirque du Soliel, as well as, world renown professional dance & ballet companies performing at Kennedy Center, National and Warner Theaters.
Dr. Lavine has been active in IADMS serving as a Member at Large and on the Editorial Board of Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. Dr. Lavine has been a contributor to the Performing Arts Medicine Association and a regular IADMS meeting contributor. Dr Lavine has numerous leadership & media positions as Chairman & President - Medical Society of Washington, DC, and AMA Delegate & AMA Council Member.
Dr. Lavine did his undergraduate at Washington University, medical training & orthopaedic surgery residency at Georgetown University Medical Center, and AO Fellowship with Professor Reinhold Ganz in Switzerland.
Treasurer
Gayanne holds a B.F.A. in Dance and a B.S. in Physical Therapy from the University of Utah where she graduated with honors and Phi Kappa Phi. She holds an Ed.M. in Dance Education from Temple University. Gayanne is the Director of Dance Wellness, the resident physical therapist, and an instructor of anatomy, kinesiology, and conditioning for dancers at Muhlenberg College in the Department of Theatre and Dance and a physical therapist for the Lehigh Valley Health Network Performing Arts Wellness Program.
She is the author of the book Dance Science: Anatomy, Movement Analysis, and Conditioning. She has published peer reviewed research with a focus on validating turnout measurement techniques. She wrote the monograph on the dancer’s hip for the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). She has lectured, given scientific presentations, grand rounds, movement based workshops internationally. Gayanne is the recipient of a Presidential Award for the keynote speech at the National Dance Association’s (NDA) 2012 annual conference. She was awarded Fellow status by IADMS. Gayanne is serving IADMS on the Board of Directors and as Editor-in-Chief of the IADMS Bulletin for Dancers and Teachers. She serves the Performing Arts Medicine Association as a Research Committee member.
Her past professional experience includes: serving the APTA Performing Arts Special Interest Group on the Board of Directors and as a content expert for the Performing Arts Practice Analysis, providing physical therapy services for the Pennsylvania Ballet, the University of Utah Departments of Ballet and Modern Dance, Temple University Department of Dance, and the Princeton Ballet School. Her teaching experience includes modern dance technique for the University of Utah–Department of Continuing Education.
She is the author of the book Dance Science: Anatomy, Movement Analysis, and Conditioning. She has published peer reviewed research with a focus on validating turnout measurement techniques. She wrote the monograph on the dancer’s hip for the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). She has lectured, given scientific presentations, grand rounds, movement based workshops internationally. Gayanne is the recipient of a Presidential Award for the keynote speech at the National Dance Association’s (NDA) 2012 annual conference. She was awarded Fellow status by IADMS. Gayanne is serving IADMS on the Board of Directors and as Editor-in-Chief of the IADMS Bulletin for Dancers and Teachers. She serves the Performing Arts Medicine Association as a Research Committee member.
Her past professional experience includes: serving the APTA Performing Arts Special Interest Group on the Board of Directors and as a content expert for the Performing Arts Practice Analysis, providing physical therapy services for the Pennsylvania Ballet, the University of Utah Departments of Ballet and Modern Dance, Temple University Department of Dance, and the Princeton Ballet School. Her teaching experience includes modern dance technique for the University of Utah–Department of Continuing Education.
Director-at-Large (Professional Member)
Kathleen Davenport has been an IADMS member since 2001. As a Physiatrist and Sports Medicine Physician, she has worked toward dancer wellness as Company Physician for Miami City Ballet and in treating studio dancers, university dance students, and professional dancers of all backgrounds.
As the Secretary for the Dance/USA Task Force on Dancer Health, she values collaboration across disciplines and mutual respect across professions. She served as the Co-Chair of the Colloquium on the Clinical Care of Dancers at IADMS 2015, working across disciplines to explore best practices for dancer wellness as well as lecture formats for IADMS members.
Kathleen has been on research protocols since high school and won the Resident Research Award at the University of Washington. As an active dancer and member in her local community, she has worked to found and grow community organizations.
As the Secretary for the Dance/USA Task Force on Dancer Health, she values collaboration across disciplines and mutual respect across professions. She served as the Co-Chair of the Colloquium on the Clinical Care of Dancers at IADMS 2015, working across disciplines to explore best practices for dancer wellness as well as lecture formats for IADMS members.
Kathleen has been on research protocols since high school and won the Resident Research Award at the University of Washington. As an active dancer and member in her local community, she has worked to found and grow community organizations.
Director-at-Large (Professional Member)
Jennifer Deckert is currently an Associate Professor of Dance at the University of South Carolina, where she teaches ballet technique, dance kinesiology, and pointe technique. She has an MFA in ballet performance, choreography, and research from the University of Utah. Her research interests include integrated breath awareness, dynamic alignment, and the incorporation of wellness based training into the classroom. Her choreography credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Cinderella, Dracula, and an original collaborative physical dance theatre Kiss Romeo, Bang! Juliet, among others. In 2015, she was invited to present work at the 3rd Beijing International Ballet and Choreography Competition in Beijing, China. She has taught master classes and created works at numerous institutions and festivals throughout the United States, Europe, and China.
Director-at-Large (Professional Member)
Lauren Elson, MD is board-certified in sports medicine and in physical medicine and rehabilitation. She attended Tufts University School of Medicine, did her residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital Columbia/Cornell, and completed a fellowship in Sports Medicine at Stanford University. She is currently the Director of Dance Medicine at Spaulding Rehabilitation and an Instructor at Harvard University.
She is a former professional dancer and instructor of jazz, ballet, tap, hip-hop, African, swing, and salsa, and she has danced with Cambridge Dance Company since its inception in 2012. Currently, she is the chair of the Freelance Dancer Committee on the Dance/USA Task Force on Dance Health. She has lectured nationally and internationally on dance health and injury prevention to dancers and professional organizations and has recently published an introductory textbook for physicians interested in treating artists: Performing Arts Medicine.
She is a former professional dancer and instructor of jazz, ballet, tap, hip-hop, African, swing, and salsa, and she has danced with Cambridge Dance Company since its inception in 2012. Currently, she is the chair of the Freelance Dancer Committee on the Dance/USA Task Force on Dance Health. She has lectured nationally and internationally on dance health and injury prevention to dancers and professional organizations and has recently published an introductory textbook for physicians interested in treating artists: Performing Arts Medicine.
Director-at-Large (Professional Member)
Matthew Grierson, MD is a board-certified physiatrist with subspecialty certification in sports medicine. He holds a BFA in modern dance from the University of Utah and has received his medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine.
Dr. Grierson is Medical Director for the Seattle Clinic for Performing Artists and is a co-founder of a free clinic in Seattle that provides free medical care to uninsured or underinsured performing artists. He is an active member of the Dance/USA Taskforce on Dancer Health and served as a member of the IADMS Development Committee. He has a strong commitment to principles of public health and has helped influence healthcare policy through service on county and state medical society boards as well as through work as Speaker of the Washington State Medical Association House of Delegates and as a representative to the American Medical Association.
His clinical practice serves as a resource for dancers across the spectrum of age, ability, and function. Dr. Grierson cares for professional dancers from the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Whim W’him, and Spectrum Dance companies and works with university dancers from Cornish College of the Arts and the University of Washington. He holds a clinical faculty appointment with the University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and is involved in teaching residents and medical students, helping to usher in the next generation of dance medicine professionals.
Dr. Grierson is Medical Director for the Seattle Clinic for Performing Artists and is a co-founder of a free clinic in Seattle that provides free medical care to uninsured or underinsured performing artists. He is an active member of the Dance/USA Taskforce on Dancer Health and served as a member of the IADMS Development Committee. He has a strong commitment to principles of public health and has helped influence healthcare policy through service on county and state medical society boards as well as through work as Speaker of the Washington State Medical Association House of Delegates and as a representative to the American Medical Association.
His clinical practice serves as a resource for dancers across the spectrum of age, ability, and function. Dr. Grierson cares for professional dancers from the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Whim W’him, and Spectrum Dance companies and works with university dancers from Cornish College of the Arts and the University of Washington. He holds a clinical faculty appointment with the University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and is involved in teaching residents and medical students, helping to usher in the next generation of dance medicine professionals.
Director-at-Large (Professional Member)
Claire Hiller is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Sydney, Australia. Her areas of interest are dancer health, dance for health, and musculoskeletal health with a focus on ankle injury. She is passionate about fostering collaborations in the dance field to further evidence-based practice for dancer health, the use of dance for health, and indigenous dance forms. She has been a practicing physiotherapist for over 30 years with a focus on the adolescent dancer. Along with her research, this has led to many national and international talks to students, faculty, and clinical groups.
She has been a member of IADMS for many decades and has served on the Research Committee since 2015. In the past, she organized the Physical Therapy Special Interest Days at the Annual Conferences.
She has been a member of IADMS for many decades and has served on the Research Committee since 2015. In the past, she organized the Physical Therapy Special Interest Days at the Annual Conferences.
Director-at-Large (Student Representative)
Jillian is currently a doctoral candidate in the Interdisciplinary Program at Ohio University, combining professional counseling with athletic training. The focus of her on-going research is a dual-country query into dancers’ perceptions of healthcare access and satisfaction, inspired by the work of M Air in the Nederlands. She anticipates defending and graduating in the spring of 2018 and moving to Colorado to teach and practice. Jillian is a full-time contract-lecturer in the accredited Athletic Training program at Keene State College in New Hampshire. She is the resident dance-knowledgeable faculty as she advises students on dance-specific questions in their practice and research. Jillian is also a practicing athletic trainer in the state of Massachusetts under a per-diem model company.
Her individual research interest in dancers began in 2008, while she was studying to become an athletic trainer. She continued to study under Dr. Redding in the MSc at Trinity Laban and further at Ohio University. Her research focuses on the psychological side of dancer wellness.
Jillian has previously served on the IADMS Student Committee.
Her individual research interest in dancers began in 2008, while she was studying to become an athletic trainer. She continued to study under Dr. Redding in the MSc at Trinity Laban and further at Ohio University. Her research focuses on the psychological side of dancer wellness.
Jillian has previously served on the IADMS Student Committee.
Advisory Board Member
Cecil C. Conner, Jr. is a native of Greensboro, NC. He studied at the University of Vienna in Austria, received his BA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his LLB from Columbia University School of Law. Mr. Conner is a retired US Navy Lieutenant.
Mr. Conner retired in 2012 after 17 years as Managing Director of Houston Ballet. He currently serves on the boards of American Festival for the Arts, Dance Source Houston, Houston Arts Alliance, the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science, Theater District Houston, and the advisory boards of the Menil Society and the Performing and Fine Arts Society of the University of St. Thomas. He previously served on the boards of the American Guild of Musical Artists Retirement and Health Fund, Career Transition for Dancers, Dance/USA (Chair), Houston First Corporation, the National Association of Regional Ballet, the Texas Institute for Arts in Education, and Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts in New York.
Mr. Conner served as Executive Director of The Joffrey Ballet from May 1992 until April 1995, as the Executive Director of the Pauline Koner Dance Consort from 1976-1981, and as an agent with Tornay Management in New York. He has served on grant panels for Federal, State, and local arts agencies. He also has lectured on dance at Rice University and the University of Houston.
Mr. Conner’s background in the arts is complemented by his extensive law background. From 1980 – 1995, Mr. Conner served as managing partner of and later of counsel to Mandelbaum, Schweiger & Conner in New York City. Previously, Mr. Conner was with Goldman Sachs & Co., and Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett, both in New York.
Mr. Conner retired in 2012 after 17 years as Managing Director of Houston Ballet. He currently serves on the boards of American Festival for the Arts, Dance Source Houston, Houston Arts Alliance, the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science, Theater District Houston, and the advisory boards of the Menil Society and the Performing and Fine Arts Society of the University of St. Thomas. He previously served on the boards of the American Guild of Musical Artists Retirement and Health Fund, Career Transition for Dancers, Dance/USA (Chair), Houston First Corporation, the National Association of Regional Ballet, the Texas Institute for Arts in Education, and Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts in New York.
Mr. Conner served as Executive Director of The Joffrey Ballet from May 1992 until April 1995, as the Executive Director of the Pauline Koner Dance Consort from 1976-1981, and as an agent with Tornay Management in New York. He has served on grant panels for Federal, State, and local arts agencies. He also has lectured on dance at Rice University and the University of Houston.
Mr. Conner’s background in the arts is complemented by his extensive law background. From 1980 – 1995, Mr. Conner served as managing partner of and later of counsel to Mandelbaum, Schweiger & Conner in New York City. Previously, Mr. Conner was with Goldman Sachs & Co., and Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett, both in New York.
OPERATIONAL COMMITTEES
Our Operational Committees work on the short and long-term goals driven by the strategic plan and vision of the organization. Each committee has a specific purpose and works closely with the Board of Directors and IADMS staff to accomplish their goals.
The Dance Educators' Committee provides educational resources for dance teachers, dance students, parents, and dancers; and promotes healthy discourse between them and the allied health practitioners who provide their care. The committee is responsible for the development of the Annual Conference's special interest day, A Day for Teachers; oversees the annual Dance Educator Award; and produces IADMS resource papers, blog posts, and posters.
education@iadms.org
The Dance for Health Committee is an interdisciplinary team of teaching artists, dance educators, researchers, and healthcare professionals. The committee promotes innovation in research and best practice, bringing together the healthcare and dance sectors to facilitate the implementation of dance-based interventions within evolving health and social structures. Advocating for dance as a life-long partner for health and well-being, the Dance for Health Committee builds collaborations among multidisciplinary stakeholders to influence national and international dance for health policy.
Dance for Health provides holistic, evidence-based alternatives for the individual to manage and adapt to physical, mental, and social health challenges. In Dance for Health sessions, trained teaching artists engage people as dancers, rather than patients, in joyful, interactive, artistic activity.
danceforhealth@iadms.org
The Development Committee is responsible for global fundraising efforts that contribute to the financial stability and growth of the organization. As a not-for-profit, IADMS relies on its supporters; the Development Committee fosters these relationships for all levels of support and across a variety of fundraising initiatives.
development@iadms.org
The Ethics Committee is an ad hoc committee that is formed at the behest of the Board to review the conduct of individual members. The Ethics Committee is responsible for investigating all complaints and making recommendations to the Board of Directors accordingly.
ethics@iadms.org
The Medical Committee works with IADMS staff, the Program Committee, and the Professional Development Committee to organize and produce accredited courses that provide continuing medical education (CME) credits for physicians on the topic of dance medicine, including the Annual Conference’s special interest day, A Day for Physicians.
medical@iadms.org
The Professional Development Committee identifies the educational and accreditation needs of the dance medicine and science community to develop resources, online courses, and other initiatives that satisfy gaps in the field.
professionaldev@iadms.org
The Program Committee is actively engaged in the planning process for the Annual Conference and Regional Meetings. Further, the committee monitors feedback from members and attendees to ensure high-quality programming is produced to address the needs and wants of the IADMS constituency.
programchair@iadms.org
The Promotion Committee contributes to the international profile of IADMS by producing and disseminating marketing materials on behalf of the organization. The committee manages IADMS's social media platforms, creates announcements for meetings and events, and produces the IADMS blog.
promotion@iadms.org
The Publications Committee is responsible for editing and approving the content of IADMS publications, including the newsletter, The IADMS Bulletin for Dancers and Teachers, resource papers, and posters. The committee also reviews all outgoing messaging, handbooks, Annual Conference documents, and marketing materials. In addition, the committee is responsible for maintaining the IADMS author guidelines and ensuring compliance with them in all official IADMS publications.
publications@iadms.org
The Research Committee aims to promote and strengthen research excellence within the dance medicine and science community and encourages the dissemination of scholarly research among researchers, educators, and health-care practitioners. The committee adjudicates the Student Research Award and Student Researcher Travel Fund as well as the IADMS poster competition at the IADMS Annual Conference. The committee Chair, in cooperation with current Fellows and the Board of Directors, informs the Fellowship of IADMS( FIADMS) process which recognizes individuals with esteemed professional achievement, skills, knowledge, and service to IADMS and the dance medicine and science community.
research@iadms.org
The Student Committee strives to develop a strong network of students and recent graduates in the field of dance medicine and science. The committee provides networking opportunities, professional development resources, and connections for students all over the globe in an effort to meet the needs of future professionals in the field.
students@iadms.org
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
IADMS Operational Committees are staffed by volunteers appointed by the Board of Directors. The Committee's roles are clearly defined under our Bylaws
Chair, Dance Educators' Committee
Ellie Kusner is a teacher, researcher, writer, and Bessie Award-winning performer. She began performing as a student of The Boston Ballet School, where she danced with the company in many large-scale productions. Realizing that a career in pointe shoes was not her destiny, Ellie went on to earn her BA from Barnard College before embarking on a freelance dance career. She has worked with numerous choreographers including Mark Morris, Pam Tanowitz, Ellen Cornfield, Nilas Martins, and Patricia Hoffbauer, in venues ranging from warehouse rooftops to The Metropolitan Opera House. Ellie holds an MSc in Dance Science from Trinity Laban, London, UK and enjoys exploring and implementing evidence-based teaching practices to enhance the learning, health, and performance of dancers. Ellie has taught at various institutions including Hofstra University, American Ballet Theater’s JKO School, Boston Ballet, Barnard College, Slippery Rock University, Gallim, and Trinity Laban. She currently teaches pilates to dancers at The Juilliard School and to all populations in the Wellness Center at the Mark Morris Dance Center. Ellie is also the co-host of DanceWell Podcast, a resource dedicated to exploring 360 degrees of health and wellness for dancers, and she has written about dance and wellness for Dance Teacher and Pointe Magazines.
Chair, Dance For Health Committee
Transitioned professional dancer, choreographer, opera director to Chi Kung practitioner, therapeutic masseur, international holistic wellness managing director and author.
Today, Clare’s specialist work translates Attentional Focus research findings for direct daily dance practice. Findings are adapted as easy to use, complementary tools for dancers, dance educators and healthcare practitioners. Attentional focus strategies enhance the physical and mental performance of pre-professional, professional dancers and equally that of all dancing publics. Clare teaches AF workshops and class at Finnish National Ballet & School, Ballet de L’Opèra du Rhin, Houston Ballet, The Royal Ballet, L’Ecole Superieure de Danse de Cannes et Marseille, Opèra de Paris-Opèra Université. She lectures on Older Adult Dance Practice for the MAS Dance Science programme, Bern University, Switzerland, for the University Côte d’Azur, France and for the Royal Academy of Dance.
Director of the European ‘Dance & Creative Wellness’ Foundation, Clare leads an international benchmarking initiative for the dance for health sector and lobbies for the validation of dance in innovative preventative healthcare.
Today, Clare’s specialist work translates Attentional Focus research findings for direct daily dance practice. Findings are adapted as easy to use, complementary tools for dancers, dance educators and healthcare practitioners. Attentional focus strategies enhance the physical and mental performance of pre-professional, professional dancers and equally that of all dancing publics. Clare teaches AF workshops and class at Finnish National Ballet & School, Ballet de L’Opèra du Rhin, Houston Ballet, The Royal Ballet, L’Ecole Superieure de Danse de Cannes et Marseille, Opèra de Paris-Opèra Université. She lectures on Older Adult Dance Practice for the MAS Dance Science programme, Bern University, Switzerland, for the University Côte d’Azur, France and for the Royal Academy of Dance.
Director of the European ‘Dance & Creative Wellness’ Foundation, Clare leads an international benchmarking initiative for the dance for health sector and lobbies for the validation of dance in innovative preventative healthcare.
Chair, Development Committee
Prior to graduating from North London School of Sports Massage (NLSSM), Stephanie completed Trinity Laban’s MSc Dance Science programme and professional dance training at Middlesex University. Stephanie’s dance background and Dance Science studies initiated a keen interest in the areas of movement analysis, injury surveillance and rehabilitation. After studying these topics extensively during undergraduate/postgraduate study, Stephanie decided she wanted to have a more ‘hands-on’ approach and subsequently this led to pursuing the course at NLSSM.
Stephanie is now Sports and Remedial Massage Therapist (SRMT) at London Contemporary Dance School and is a lecturer in Dance Science at Bird College and senior tutor at NLSSM, alongside guest lecturing at London Studio Centre and Royal Academy of Dance. Throughout Stephanie’s diploma and subsequent CPD training she has acquired a range of advanced soft tissue techniques including; deep tissue massage, muscle energy technique, soft tissue release, positional release, neuromuscular technique, kinesiotaping, instrument assisted soft tissue massage, lymphatic drainage, posture assessment, movement assessment, exercise prescription and ScarWork(c) . Stephanie’s practice is evidence based and she keeps up to date with current research to ensure her treatment is reflective of best practice.
Stephanie is now Sports and Remedial Massage Therapist (SRMT) at London Contemporary Dance School and is a lecturer in Dance Science at Bird College and senior tutor at NLSSM, alongside guest lecturing at London Studio Centre and Royal Academy of Dance. Throughout Stephanie’s diploma and subsequent CPD training she has acquired a range of advanced soft tissue techniques including; deep tissue massage, muscle energy technique, soft tissue release, positional release, neuromuscular technique, kinesiotaping, instrument assisted soft tissue massage, lymphatic drainage, posture assessment, movement assessment, exercise prescription and ScarWork(c) . Stephanie’s practice is evidence based and she keeps up to date with current research to ensure her treatment is reflective of best practice.
Chair, Ethics Committee
Debra Crookshanks is an Australian trained and nationally registered musculoskeletal and spinal manipulative physiotherapist, with particular expertise in the field of Dance Medicine.
Debra is primarily a clinician and educator having written the Safe Dance 3 Report, along with the Dance Anatomy component of the University of New South Wales BA.BEd degree, study guides for dance training facilities, and occasional papers specifically for students of dance. She was founding Chair of Dance Physiotherapy Australia, a special interest group within the Australian Physiotherapy Association dedicated to providing continuing education to those caring for dancers, lecturing extensively in the area of lumbo-pelvic pain, and continues to write dance medicine articles for national dance publications in Australia.
Debra is Director of The Dancers Clinic, a private physiotherapy practice in Sydney, NSW providing consultancy physiotherapy to recreational through to professional dancers and performing artists both in-clinic and onsite. She has presented at many IADMS Conferences since 1999, and was Invited Speaker in Seattle, 2013 on the topic of The Dancers Hip.
Debra is primarily a clinician and educator having written the Safe Dance 3 Report, along with the Dance Anatomy component of the University of New South Wales BA.BEd degree, study guides for dance training facilities, and occasional papers specifically for students of dance. She was founding Chair of Dance Physiotherapy Australia, a special interest group within the Australian Physiotherapy Association dedicated to providing continuing education to those caring for dancers, lecturing extensively in the area of lumbo-pelvic pain, and continues to write dance medicine articles for national dance publications in Australia.
Debra is Director of The Dancers Clinic, a private physiotherapy practice in Sydney, NSW providing consultancy physiotherapy to recreational through to professional dancers and performing artists both in-clinic and onsite. She has presented at many IADMS Conferences since 1999, and was Invited Speaker in Seattle, 2013 on the topic of The Dancers Hip.
Chair, Medical Committee
Dr. David Popoli is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation and sports medicine physician. He completed medical residency at Harvard and sports medicine fellowship at Boston Children's. He has previously collaborated with the Boston Ballet and the Atlanta Ballet, USA Cycling, and the US Olympic Training Center. He currently serves as an attending physician in the Department of Orthopedics at Wake Forest Baptist Health and as consulting physician with the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (Winston-Salem, North Carolina).
Dr. Popoli has a strong interest in exploring and implementing multidisciplinary care—specifically the creation and deployment of treatment teams with diverse training backgrounds (PT, MD, PhD, ATC, DC, etc.) with an aim to optimize care for dancers.
He has been the chair of the organizing committee for the 1st/2nd City of Arts and Innovation Dance Medicine conference in Winston-Salem; previous speakers have included Lyle Micheli, MD, Susan Jaffe, Marijeanne Liederbach, PhD, and Jennet Zerbe.
Dr. Popoli has a strong interest in exploring and implementing multidisciplinary care—specifically the creation and deployment of treatment teams with diverse training backgrounds (PT, MD, PhD, ATC, DC, etc.) with an aim to optimize care for dancers.
He has been the chair of the organizing committee for the 1st/2nd City of Arts and Innovation Dance Medicine conference in Winston-Salem; previous speakers have included Lyle Micheli, MD, Susan Jaffe, Marijeanne Liederbach, PhD, and Jennet Zerbe.
Chair, Professional Development Committee
Matthew Wyon, PhD, is a Professor in Dance Science at the University of Wolverhampton, UK and a Visiting Professor at the Division of Surgery and Intervention Science, Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Science, University College London and ArtEZ, Institute of the Arts, The Netherlands. At Wolverhampton, he is the course leader for the MSc in Dance Science and Director of Studies for a number of dance science and medicine doctoral candidates. He is a founding partner of the National Institute of Dance Medicine and Science, UK. Prof. Wyon is a past chair of the Research Committee for the International Association for Dance Medicine & Science. He has worked with numerous dancers and companies within the UK and Europe as an applied physiologist and strength and conditioning coach. He has published over 90 peer-reviewed articles in dance medicine and science.
Co-Chairs, Program Committee
After moving from being a principal dancer with eminent ballet companies, Peter retrained as a dance educator and an osteopath. He has been involved with IADMS for nearly 20 years in a variety of roles. Today, Peter is President of IADMS, using his dancing, osteopathic, and academic experience to give leadership and innovation. Simultaneously Peter is studying for his Ph.D. and supports the Princesses Grace Dance Academy and the Ballets de Monte-Carlo in Monaco as a resident osteopath as well as the Rosella Hightower School in Cannes/ Mougins, France. Peter and his team are now leading IADMS into a digital-driven post-Covid world.
Nancy Kadel is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle reconstruction. Her academic interest and passion is the care of dancers. She studied dance and science at Sarah Lawrence College, USA, was a scholarship student at Jacob’s Pillow, and performed with several dance companies. She graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, fulfilled her residency training in Boston at the Harvard Orthopaedic program, and completed a Foot and Ankle fellowship at the New England Baptist Hospital. She has taught ballet and modern dance classes, and she has choreographed several works.
In San Francisco, Nancy served as Medical Director of the Healthy Dancers’ Clinic, a free injury prevention and screening clinic for dancers housed in the ODC Dance Commons. In Seattle, she volunteers at the SeaPAM Performing Arts monthly clinic. She has lectured internationally on dance injury prevention and published original research on stress fractures, surgical techniques, and dance biomechanics.
As an IADMS member since 2003, Nancy has attended most of the Annual Meetings, and she has served as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. She worked to get continuing medical education/CEU accreditation for the Birmingham and Washington, DC meetings. She is currently Co-Chair of the Dance/USA Task Force, and she serves on the Dance/USA Executive Board of Trustees. Nancy sits on the Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA), and she has recently completed her term as President of PAMA from 2014–2016.
In San Francisco, Nancy served as Medical Director of the Healthy Dancers’ Clinic, a free injury prevention and screening clinic for dancers housed in the ODC Dance Commons. In Seattle, she volunteers at the SeaPAM Performing Arts monthly clinic. She has lectured internationally on dance injury prevention and published original research on stress fractures, surgical techniques, and dance biomechanics.
As an IADMS member since 2003, Nancy has attended most of the Annual Meetings, and she has served as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. She worked to get continuing medical education/CEU accreditation for the Birmingham and Washington, DC meetings. She is currently Co-Chair of the Dance/USA Task Force, and she serves on the Dance/USA Executive Board of Trustees. Nancy sits on the Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA), and she has recently completed her term as President of PAMA from 2014–2016.
Chair, Promotion Committee
Sarah is a Research Fellow in Exercise Physiology at the University of Chichester, UK. Her primary role is within the University’s Occupational Performance Research Group, where she conducts research related to the selection, training, and performance of personnel working within physically demanding occupations. In addition to this, Sarah is involved in delivery of the BSc/MSci Dance Science program at Chichester, teaching across Physiology and Research Methods modules and supervising student research projects. Sarah is also undertaking research in collaboration with colleagues in the University’s Dance Department investigating areas including the training load of dance students and the physiological demands of professional touring.
Sarah has a range of teaching, research, project management, and advocacy experience within dance science through previous roles in the Dance Science Department at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and as a Manager of the Healthier Dancer Programme at One Dance UK. She received both her PhD (2017) and MSc (2010) in Dance Science from Trinity Laban, following her BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences (2009) at the University of Exeter.
Sarah has been an IADMS member since 2009, during which time she has served two terms as Chair of the Student Committee and three terms on the Promotion Committee. She is passionate about her role in promoting the association and the wonderful work it does.
Sarah has a range of teaching, research, project management, and advocacy experience within dance science through previous roles in the Dance Science Department at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and as a Manager of the Healthier Dancer Programme at One Dance UK. She received both her PhD (2017) and MSc (2010) in Dance Science from Trinity Laban, following her BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences (2009) at the University of Exeter.
Sarah has been an IADMS member since 2009, during which time she has served two terms as Chair of the Student Committee and three terms on the Promotion Committee. She is passionate about her role in promoting the association and the wonderful work it does.
Chair, Publications Committee
Jacqueline is a Performing Arts and Dance Science lecturer in the United Kingdom. She has a Bachelor’s in Dance Studies and a Master’s in Dance Science from the University of Wolverhampton. Over the last few years Jacqueline has utilised these to integrate healthy dance and wellbeing practice within her contemporary dance teaching and lecturing. She has taught in a variety of settings including recreational dance schools, Further and Adult Education and most recently in a vocational Performing Arts School in Wiltshire. Jacqueline has served as a member of the Publications Committee since 2018 and has been the Associate Editor and Editor of the Newsletter during this time.
Chair, Research Committee
Derrick Brown is currently co-program manager and lecturer in dance science at the University of Bern, Institute for Sport Science, Bern Switzerland. In addition, he also is a research fellow at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (the Netherlands) as well as a guest lecturer in health at ArtEZ University of the Arts and the Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, People and Work- Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, both in the Netherlands. He obtained his M.Sc. in Dance Science with honors from the University of Wolverhampton U.K. and is a certified Sport/Performance Nutritionist (CISSN). Derrick has peer-reviewed for several international journals and is currently an editorial board member for the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science. He has (co)authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and books on dance education and performance. Derrick is currently a doctoral candidate in his final year at Radboud University, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour (the Netherlands) where his research crosses empirical theories in cognitive and experimental psychology with queries in dance performance research.
Prior to academia, he worked for thirty-five years professionally in the dance world, first as a dancer, teacher, and rehearsal director. He danced with Peridance, Ballet Manhattan, Pretty Ugly Dance Company, Itzik Galili, and for 10 years with the Mark Morris Dance Group. He has taught ballet for classical and contemporary dancers in dance institutions and companies throughout the EU including Codarts University of the Arts, Amsterdam University of the Arts, Les Ballet de Monte-Carlo, Noord Nederlands Dans, Staatsoper Hannover, The Hessisches Staatstheater Wiesbaden, and Culberg Ballet.
Prior to academia, he worked for thirty-five years professionally in the dance world, first as a dancer, teacher, and rehearsal director. He danced with Peridance, Ballet Manhattan, Pretty Ugly Dance Company, Itzik Galili, and for 10 years with the Mark Morris Dance Group. He has taught ballet for classical and contemporary dancers in dance institutions and companies throughout the EU including Codarts University of the Arts, Amsterdam University of the Arts, Les Ballet de Monte-Carlo, Noord Nederlands Dans, Staatsoper Hannover, The Hessisches Staatstheater Wiesbaden, and Culberg Ballet.
Chair, Student Committee
Elizabeth Yutzey started contemporary dance training in Columbus, OH before continuing to study dance at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, PA, where she completed a dual BA (Hons) in Dance and Anthropology. Since then, she has performed with various local dance artists and showcased her own choreography in Lancaster, PA, and London, UK. Elizabeth came to Dance Science after briefly working professionally as an archaeologist with a specialization in bioarchaeology. She has since completed her MFA in Dance Science at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, UK. Her research focuses on evaluating methods of measuring creativity in dance science and was presented as a poster at the 2018 annual IADMS conference in Helsinki. Elizabeth recently completed her role as Dance Science Graduate Intern for Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, which included administering musculoskeletal and fitness screenings, lecturing MSc Dance Science students on laboratory methods, and leading various dance science workshops to young dancers and university students across the UK. Elizabeth has been a member of IADMS since 2012 and Chair of the Student Committee since 2018.
IADMS STAFF
Our staff is dedicated to the execution and support of IADMS's mission and strategic objectives as outlined by the Board and respective Committees.
Director of Operations
leigh.ponniah@iadms.org
Leigh Ponniah, MA, MSc, joined IADMS in 2016 as its Director of Development. Since then she has been promoted to Director of Operations, taking on a larger role in managing all aspects of the organization’s programming and membership. Leigh works with the Board of Directors and Committee Chairs to develop new avenues of growth for the organization to ensure its sustainability and financial stability. Prior to joining IADMS, Leigh spent 10 years at the NYU Langone's Harkness Center for Dance Injuries as a Program Coordinator for Education and Marketing. There she developed a number of educational programs for the dance and medical community, provided lectures and workshops on the topic of kinesiology and injury prevention in dance, and helped to increase the visibility of the Center. Leigh received her MSc in Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, UK in 2006, and in 2012 she graduated with an MA in Performance Studies from New York University's Tisch School of the Performing Arts. Leigh has a number of national certifications in fitness training through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, KettleBell Concepts, and Athletics and Fitness Associates of America. She has also served on the Board for the New York State Dance Educators Association and presented her research at a number of international conferences, including the American College of Sports Medicine, National Dance Education Association, and IADMS.
Leigh Ponniah, MA, MSc, joined IADMS in 2016 as its Director of Development. Since then she has been promoted to Director of Operations, taking on a larger role in managing all aspects of the organization’s programming and membership. Leigh works with the Board of Directors and Committee Chairs to develop new avenues of growth for the organization to ensure its sustainability and financial stability. Prior to joining IADMS, Leigh spent 10 years at the NYU Langone's Harkness Center for Dance Injuries as a Program Coordinator for Education and Marketing. There she developed a number of educational programs for the dance and medical community, provided lectures and workshops on the topic of kinesiology and injury prevention in dance, and helped to increase the visibility of the Center. Leigh received her MSc in Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, UK in 2006, and in 2012 she graduated with an MA in Performance Studies from New York University's Tisch School of the Performing Arts. Leigh has a number of national certifications in fitness training through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, KettleBell Concepts, and Athletics and Fitness Associates of America. She has also served on the Board for the New York State Dance Educators Association and presented her research at a number of international conferences, including the American College of Sports Medicine, National Dance Education Association, and IADMS.
Programming & Marketing Specialist
sutton.anker@iadms.org
Sutton Anker has a strong passion for teaching: dance technique, dance science/wellness, Pilates, and creative movement classes for all ages and abilities. Her interest in dance medicine and science began at the University of Wyoming where she earned her BFA in 2013 in Dance concentration of Science. In 2015, Sutton graduated with her Masters of Science in Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, UK. Sutton has presented two of her mirror research studies including her Master’s thesis, An Investigation of Pedagogical Rationales for Current Mirror Use in a Ballet Technique Class at the 2016 IADMS conference in Hong Kong. Sutton’s personal and academic interest in pedagogy and advocacy for safe dance practice is what drew her to be a Safe in Dance International (SiDI) Registered Provider. Alongside teaching dance technique at a local studio, Sutton is a BASI Pilates instructor educating and working with individuals, and dancers, on their personal wellness. In 2019, Sutton joined IADMS as the Program and Marketing Specialist to assist teams across the organization to plan, coordinate, and implement successful conference programming and marketing campaigns.
Sutton Anker has a strong passion for teaching: dance technique, dance science/wellness, Pilates, and creative movement classes for all ages and abilities. Her interest in dance medicine and science began at the University of Wyoming where she earned her BFA in 2013 in Dance concentration of Science. In 2015, Sutton graduated with her Masters of Science in Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, UK. Sutton has presented two of her mirror research studies including her Master’s thesis, An Investigation of Pedagogical Rationales for Current Mirror Use in a Ballet Technique Class at the 2016 IADMS conference in Hong Kong. Sutton’s personal and academic interest in pedagogy and advocacy for safe dance practice is what drew her to be a Safe in Dance International (SiDI) Registered Provider. Alongside teaching dance technique at a local studio, Sutton is a BASI Pilates instructor educating and working with individuals, and dancers, on their personal wellness. In 2019, Sutton joined IADMS as the Program and Marketing Specialist to assist teams across the organization to plan, coordinate, and implement successful conference programming and marketing campaigns.
Accountant
accounting@iadms.org
Blair is married to her husband of 41 years, Michael. They have two daughters and 5 grandchildren. Growing up as a dancer, Blair hopes someday that one of her grandchildren will enjoy it as much as she does. Blair continues to utilize her dancing experience and volunteers her time to teach dance exercise/stretch classes at her church. After college, Blair began her career as an auditor for the Navy Exchange at the now-defunct Alameda Naval Air Base in Alameda, California. This, along with many other educational and career opportunities and experiences, led her to establish her Accounting/ Consulting firm over 25 years ago. She is a certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor which provides her with the expertise to work with small to mid-sized corporations, non-profits, and sole proprietor businesses. She assists businesses with management, budgeting, and planning, as well as QuickBooks software set-up, training, and on-going support. Blair specializes in set-up, repair, reorganization, and maintenance of financial systems. She has also conducted forensic auditing in cases of unusual accounting activities, such as employee fraud and embezzlement. Blair enjoys working closely with her clients, teaching them and their employees the most proficient and up-to-date financial systems and software.
Blair is married to her husband of 41 years, Michael. They have two daughters and 5 grandchildren. Growing up as a dancer, Blair hopes someday that one of her grandchildren will enjoy it as much as she does. Blair continues to utilize her dancing experience and volunteers her time to teach dance exercise/stretch classes at her church. After college, Blair began her career as an auditor for the Navy Exchange at the now-defunct Alameda Naval Air Base in Alameda, California. This, along with many other educational and career opportunities and experiences, led her to establish her Accounting/ Consulting firm over 25 years ago. She is a certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor which provides her with the expertise to work with small to mid-sized corporations, non-profits, and sole proprietor businesses. She assists businesses with management, budgeting, and planning, as well as QuickBooks software set-up, training, and on-going support. Blair specializes in set-up, repair, reorganization, and maintenance of financial systems. She has also conducted forensic auditing in cases of unusual accounting activities, such as employee fraud and embezzlement. Blair enjoys working closely with her clients, teaching them and their employees the most proficient and up-to-date financial systems and software.
Information Technology
support@iadms.org
David Allen joined IADMS in 2014 to select and implement a new conference abstract management system. After a successful implementation, David was invited to assume Webmaster of the association. There, he was responsible for managing the website, the new abstract system, and the IADMS email system, along with other technologies. During his time with IADMS, David has helped incorporate new processes, notably an overhaul of the conference registration system. David works closely with the Director of Operations, the Program & Marketing Specialist, and the Program Chair to create a website experience that is seamless for all IADMS website users.
Since studying computer science at The Johns Hopkins University, David has worked successfully with several non-profit organizations to build and maintain award-winning websites and user interface experiences. His skill sets as a programmer and web developer have given him the opportunity to broaden his role as webmaster with other IADMS projects. As a classically trained pianist, David has been able to combine his professional and personal skills and is proud to support the IADMS mission.
David Allen joined IADMS in 2014 to select and implement a new conference abstract management system. After a successful implementation, David was invited to assume Webmaster of the association. There, he was responsible for managing the website, the new abstract system, and the IADMS email system, along with other technologies. During his time with IADMS, David has helped incorporate new processes, notably an overhaul of the conference registration system. David works closely with the Director of Operations, the Program & Marketing Specialist, and the Program Chair to create a website experience that is seamless for all IADMS website users.
Since studying computer science at The Johns Hopkins University, David has worked successfully with several non-profit organizations to build and maintain award-winning websites and user interface experiences. His skill sets as a programmer and web developer have given him the opportunity to broaden his role as webmaster with other IADMS projects. As a classically trained pianist, David has been able to combine his professional and personal skills and is proud to support the IADMS mission.
Information Technology
doobie@iadms.org
Doobie Moseley has worked with IADMS since January 2019. He has been working in all areas of Information Technology since 1987 but specializes in computer programming. He's also a huge Disney fan and founded a popular website for Disney fans. He has been married for 22 years to the love of his life, Rebekah, and has an 11-year-old son, Gideon. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area of California.
Doobie Moseley has worked with IADMS since January 2019. He has been working in all areas of Information Technology since 1987 but specializes in computer programming. He's also a huge Disney fan and founded a popular website for Disney fans. He has been married for 22 years to the love of his life, Rebekah, and has an 11-year-old son, Gideon. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area of California.