Sam Behrens

Sam Behrens serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Theatre at Kean University's College of Liberal Arts, specializing in dance pedagogy and performance. She teaches foundational courses including DANC 1103 Jazz 1 and DANC 2150 Dance Styles, bridging academic instruction with professional practice in New York City's dance ecosystem.

Her educational foundation includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from Marymount Manhattan College, where she concentrated in Jazz and Choreography and earned the Gold Key Award for highest achievement in her discipline. Professor Behrens maintains an active dual career as both performer and creator:

• Represented by Resolute Artists Agency for projects spanning HBO's Love Life, Capezio ACE Awards, and commercial campaigns
• Company member of TreadFAST (Steven Blandino's NYC commercial dance ensemble)
• Choreographic works featured at Steps on Broadway, Mainstages, and film festivals

Her research trajectory centers on contemporary dance practices, with emphasis on commercial choreography and jazz technique pedagogy. Recent recognition includes the Dance New Jersey 2023 Regrant Program for experimental film production, demonstrating innovation in dance media.

Professional honors include:

• Gold Key Award (Marymount Manhattan College)
• Dance New Jersey 2023 Regrant Program

Beyond campus, Professor Behrens significantly impacts the field through national dance competition judging, convention teaching, and studio choreography residencies. Her industry integration extends to TreadFAST's collaborative productions, where she contributes to repertory development under artistic direction of Steven Blandino.