Mary Burns

Mary Burns is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of Exercise & Sport Science at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. She holds a Ph.D. in Dance Education from New York University’s Steinhardt School (2005), an M.A. in Dance Education from Columbia University (1990), and a B.A. in Dance from Barnard College (1989). Her expertise spans dance education, movement analysis, and injury prevention, with certifications in Pilates, Zena Rommett Floor-Barre, and Evans-Bartenieff techniques.

Education & Certifications:

• Ph.D., Dance Education, NYU Steinhardt School (2005)
• M.A., Dance Education, Columbia University (1990)
• B.A., Dance & Economics, Barnard College (1989)
• Zena Rommett Floor-Barre Certification (2018–present)
• Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) Certification (2005–present)
• BASI Pilates for Dancers Certification (2008)

Research & Teaching Focus: Burns specializes in anatomical breakdown of dance techniques, Pilates for dancers, and movement analysis to reduce injury rates. Her work integrates kinesiology, somatic practices, and dance pedagogy. She has co-authored anatomical frameworks for Zena Rommett Floor-Barre and presented globally on topics like Pilates-based injury prevention, dance education, and somatic techniques.

Teaching & Professional Roles:

• Current courses: ESS 104 (Dance Appreciation), HPR 105 (Pilates/Core Strength)
• Over four decades of teaching at institutions like Joffrey Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance, and Iona College
• Founder of Pilates programs for dancers and adults with Parkinson’s/Cerebral Palsy

Labs/Teams: Active in Zena Rommett Floor-Barre Certification programs, Evans Somatic Dance Conferences, and global dance education initiatives.