Gastonia Times

Belmont Abbey College has recognized Carly Thompson as the inaugural recipient of the Excellence in Dance Education Award. This accolade acknowledges educators' dedication to performing arts and celebrates an educator who significantly impacts students' development.

Carly Thompson has been awarded a $1,000 grant to enhance her dance program by purchasing necessary equipment and supplies. This initiative underscores Belmont Abbey College’s commitment to supporting educators and improving dance education quality. The award will be celebrated with a Dance Showcase performance for 200 schoolchildren.

Thompson, originally from Myrtle Beach, SC, has a strong background in competitive dance and holds a degree in dance education from Winthrop University. She has been a dance educator at Mooresville and Selma Burke Middle Schools since 2019 and performs with Baran Dance in Charlotte, NC.

Thompson expressed her gratitude by saying, “I am honored to receive this award and grateful for the support from Belmont Abbey College. It inspires me to continue fostering a love for dance in my students and to provide them with the best possible education.”

Kristin Hayes, Chair of the Performing Arts Department at Belmont Abbey College, remarked, “Belmont Abbey College understands the time and dedication it takes to be an educator. We are excited to support the performing arts in our region and recognize the hard work of teachers like Carly, who inspire and shape the future of dance.”

The award was officially announced at the North Carolina Dance Educators Organization conference, where educators from across the state gather to share their passion for dance and education. Belmont Abbey College aims to empower teachers through financial support to enhance their programs and equip students with the resources they need.