Pamela Geber Handman

Pamela Geber Handman is a Professor in the School of Dance at the University of Utah, where she has served since 2000, progressing from Assistant to Associate Professor before attaining her current rank in 2019. She actively bridges academic dance with community engagement, particularly through disability-inclusive initiatives, and received the College of Fine Arts Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching in 2013.

Her educational foundation includes:

• BFA in Dance from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts (1990)
• MFA in Dance from the University of Washington (1998)
• Certifications in Carl Orff's teaching pedagogy, 200-hour Yoga (MBody Yoga, 2022), Yin Yoga (My Vinasa Flow, 2023), and ongoing Pilates Reformer training

Handman's research centers on community-based projects for mixed-ability populations, experiential anatomy, and somatic movement integration. She co-founded the Dance Science and Somatics Educators group and has organized workshops like 'Jump Start' for individuals with Down Syndrome, emphasizing practical applications of dance in special education contexts. Her work consistently connects university resources with community needs through grants and partnerships.

Her creative output (2008-2024) reveals evolving thematic depth, shifting from abstract contemporary explorations toward disability-inclusive community narratives. Recent works demonstrate integration of somatic principles with social engagement, particularly in projects involving Axis Dance Company and Tanner Dance's Adaptive Classes.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching (College of Fine Arts, 2013)

She has secured significant external funding including Council of Dee Fellows grants for 'Wellness Immersion' (2017-2018) and Utah State Office of Education support for 'Jump Start' documentary film (2015) and special education course development. Her grant work consistently targets community-university partnerships, particularly with high schools and disability organizations.

Handman actively contributes to professional networks through the International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS) and has hosted conferences for dance science educators. Her current work focuses on expanding adaptive dance programs through Tanner Dance collaborations and developing new community-based curricula.