Brenda Daniels

Brenda Daniels is the Associate Dean and a faculty member in the Department of Contemporary Dance at the School of Dance, University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA). Her roles emphasize both administrative leadership and teaching excellence in dance disciplines.

• Education: M.F.A. in Dance from Hollins University; B.F.A. in Dance from Purchase College

Her research interests focus on contemporary dance technique, choreography, and pedagogy. She prioritizes disciplined artistic development, injury prevention through proper technique, and nurturing student creativity in choreography. Her teaching philosophy combines rigorous technical training with a supportive environment, aiming to cultivate physicality and artistry.

She has received notable recognitions including the Seafirst Award for Teaching Excellence and the UNCSA Excellence in Teaching Award. Her career highlights include a 12-year tenure with Ton Simons and Dancers, founding the Brenda Daniels Dance Company, and securing choreographic grants from prestigious organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts and the New York Foundation for the Arts. She also served as a faculty member at the Merce Cunningham Studio for 15 years and taught Cunningham technique internationally at the American Dance Festival (2001–2014).

• Grants: National Endowment for the Arts, New York Foundation for the Arts, Queens Council on the Arts, Foundation for Contemporary Performance Arts

Brenda Daniels is actively involved in dance education initiatives. She leads the Preparatory Dance Program at UNCSA, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. Her contributions to dance education include developing curricula that balance technical precision with creative expression.