Dickinson State University (DSU) has announced a collaboration with the North Dakota Ukrainian Dance Association (NDUDA) aimed at strengthening the region’s cultural offerings. Through this partnership, NDUDA will now have access to the facilities at DSU, including the Dorothy Stickney Auditorium, dance studio, and accompanying resources like dressing rooms, props, and costumes. The collaboration is focused on bolstering cultural perceptions and appreciation of Ukrainian dance and traditions in the area.
Sarah Crossingham, an assistant professor of education at DSU, expressed her enthusiasm about the new initiative, indicating that “it’s another step toward enhancing fine arts in the community through a partnership with DSU.”
This initiative will revive NDUDA’s summer camp at the DSU campus, offering a comprehensive program that includes dance, art, and history classes. The sessions are designed for children from age 5 to 13 during the day, with evening classes available for older participants aged 13 and above. This tradition had been interrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is now set to resume.
Reflecting on the return of the summer camp, Anya Bohn, NDUDA treasurer and DSU alumna, stated, “Many of us grew up going to camp, and it was one of our goals to bring it back to DSU, to bring it home.”
This alliance underscores DSU’s commitment to expanding cultural initiatives and nurturing ties with students, employees, and the surrounding community. DSU and NDUDA anticipate further joint projects that will continue to spotlight the rich cultural heritage of North Dakota.
