ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

Assistant teaching professor and director of dance Ashley Goos presented at the in New York City this summer, alongside a ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University alumna.

On July 19 at Gibney Dance Studios, Goos presented about how to integrate somatic techniques into assessment practices for dance technique classes. With her was Alexandra Leurck, a 2024 alumna of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s dance program.

According to , somatics involves “movement studies and bodywork that foregrounds the internal physical sensations, perceptions, and experiences of the body.”

Leurck prepared by reflecting on the education she received in Goos’ program, including her own and other students’ testimonies from completing it. Together, they then ran a rehearsal presentation over Zoom with friends, family, colleagues and Leurck’s past professors. 

“Over time, Ashley has become a mentor to me in many ways. She has thoughtfully gotten to know my academic, artistic, and personal goals and intentions,” Leurck said. “I am grateful to have been invited as it was an amazing experience.”

Goos’ application was accepted by the National Dance Educators Organization (NDEO). She invited Leurck to join her at the end of her final semester.

“It was a great session with great conversation. We ran out of hand outs!” Goos said. “I was proud to represent ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and watch Alexandra connect and network so naturally and thoughtfully with my colleagues from across the country.” 

Goos said the best part of her experience was spending quality time with Leurck over meals and seeing shows together. Leurck is grateful that she got to network with other artists and work closely with her former instructor.

“This was a rewarding experience as Ashley’s particular focus was innovative within the field, and many other scholars and practitioners at the program resonated with the challenge she was addressing,” Leurck said. “I was exposed to a lot of new paths of study that I plan to use within my own work in the future.”

The event took place from July 19-21.