Students seek dance minor

MCLA will soon be having a new science building as well as a Subway. With reconstruction of the Campus Center on its

way, the college is beginning to make some major adjustments. One student is hoping his efforts will go into effect before he can graduate; he is attempting to get MCLA to offer dance as a minor and that student is no other than Jamal Ahamad.

“Right now, we’re trying to get more dance classes available for the fall semester,” Ahamad said.

Dance Company is MCLA’s biggest and most popular club on campus.

“A dance minor would be a fabulous addition for our FPA Department, our students and the college,” Professor Michael Dilthey said. “This is something that my colleagues and I have been talking about for the two years I’ve been here and even before that.”

Dilthey also believes that a dance minor would enhance the FPA department all around, including the music and theatre program.

As of right now, nobody seems more passionate about dance than Ahamad.

“Any shows at MASS MoCA and Mainstage are important in our attempts to get dance offered as a minor,” he said.

According to Dilthey, Nora Chipaumire, a dancer and choreographer who resides at Williams College, is working with the students as well. With a dance minor, she will bring more opportunities to create these exciting programs and bring visiting artists.

As to what still needs to be done, the student body has already jumped into this conversation. They are meeting with student representatives in the FPA Curriculum Committee and will discuss not only what a dance minor would entail but also what would be the best approach for success.

“Basically,” Ahamad stated, “it is best to be recognized.”

“Additionally, as a liberal arts college,” Dilthey continued, “we are preparing our students to have a higher understanding that is available with a diverse education. A dance minor fits directly into this philosophy. This minor would enrich students from across the College, even those beyond in FPA.”

As far how the rest of the student body can help, Ahamad insisted to, “Come show your support whenever there is an event put on by NEXXUS and other performances.”

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