Silvana M. Cardell

Silvana M. Cardell is an Associate Professor and Dance Program Director at Georgian Court University's School of Arts, Sciences, and Education. Her academic career spans over three decades, combining teaching, choreography, and artistic direction. Educated at Temple University (MFA, Choreography, 2004) and The University of the Arts (BFA, Dance, 1990), she has held leadership roles at institutions like the Wilma Theater and Cardell Dance Theater in Philadelphia.

Her research focuses on socially engaged dance practices addressing systemic inequities, particularly through themes of Human/Animal Rights and dismantling white supremacy. She emphasizes embodied learning in her pedagogy, prioritizing critical thinking and creativity while honoring BIPOC and queer artistic legacies.

Cardell’s professional experience includes international roles as Artistic Director in Buenos Aires and guest choreographer for companies like Group Motion Dance. She advocates for pain-free, intellectually rigorous dance training that connects movement to broader societal narratives.