Maria Caruso

Maria Caruso is an Associate Professor and Director of Creative Initiatives in the Performing Arts department at La Roche University. She holds a BFA in Performing Arts and Dance from Florida State University and an M.S. in Professional Leadership from Carlow University.

Her professional achievements include founding and directing Bodiography Contemporary Ballet, serving as Performing Arts Department Chair, and being recognized as a cultural leader in Pittsburgh. She has choreographed works for institutions like Brooks and Company Dance, Off Broad Street Center, and North Allegheny High School, with commissions from distinguished choreographers such as Johann Renvall and Ze'eva Cohen.

• Featured in Examiner.com's 'America Inspired Contest' (2012 finalist)
• Honored as a 'Young Pittsburgher to Watch' (2009)
• Published in Carlow University Journal (2008)

Caruso has conducted master classes at Point Park University, Slippery Rock University, and others, while designing movement programs for schools like Carnegie Mellon University's Cyert Center. Her work extends to outreach programs across multiple U.S. states, blending performance with community engagement.