Mary Murphy

Mary Murphy serves as a Lecturer of Dance Education and Field Coordinator for the Dance Department within Oakland University's School of Music, Theatre and Dance, bringing over two decades of specialized experience in K-12 and higher education dance instruction.

Her academic foundation includes a BFA in Dance with Special Studies in Ballet, K-12 Teaching Certification in Dance Education and Psychology from Western Michigan University, and an MAT in Dance Education from Marygrove College. Professional training encompasses studies with Jurgen Schneider (American Ballet Theatre), Alonzo King (Lines Ballet), Erick Hawkins, and Alwin Nikolais.

Murphy specializes in curriculum development and performance across ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap, and musical theatre disciplines. Her pedagogical approach integrates psychological principles from her academic background, emphasizing holistic dancer development through master classes at institutions including Michigan State University and Henry Ford Community College.

Award recognition includes:

• 2010 Michigan Dance Educator of the Year

Current professional activities span choreography for regional productions (e.g., Somthing Rotten at Farmington Players), coordination of the Michigan Youth Dance Festival's Honors Dance Ensemble, and leadership roles within the National Dance Education Organization and Michigan Dance Council. She maintains active teaching positions at The Dance Centre in South Lyon while advancing community engagement through Oakland University's performance initiatives.