Ting-Yu Chen

Ting-Yu Chen is a Professor of Dance at Shenandoah University's Conservatory and Associate Dean for Academic Success. She has been employed at the university since 1997 and is actively engaged in teaching, leadership, and cross-disciplinary research. Her work focuses on choreography, authentic expression, and the intersection of dance with health professions and social justice.

• Educational Background:
  • B.F.A., State University of New York-Purchase
  • M.F.A., The Ohio State University
  • Ed.D., Shenandoah University

Chen's research emphasizes body awareness and movement to enhance professional goals for artists and healthcare providers. She co-led the 2024 Adaptive Dance pilot project, addressing mobility challenges like Parkinson’s Disease and quadriplegia, and integrated adaptive dance into SU’s curriculum in 2025. Her intercultural teaching initiatives include roles as COIL Faculty Trainer and collaborations with institutions in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Scientific Awards & Grants:

• Teaching Excellence Award (2024)
• Hearts for the Arts Award (2023)
• Grants from Taiwanese National Arts Council of Cultural and Educational Development Foundation, Greater Columbus Arts Council (Ohio), and Shenandoah Arts Council

Chen serves on advisory panels for the Virginia Commission for the Arts, external review committees for Peabody Institute and Goucher College, and editorial boards of the Journal of Performing Arts Leadership in Higher Education. She is a certified Reiki Master Teacher and Higher Education consultant on faculty wellness and boundary-setting.