An Edge Hill dance teacher has been named ‘inspirational lecturer’ of the year in the One Dance UK awards.
Michelle Man, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Dance, was selected by an expert panel of judges who worked through more than a thousand public nominations featuring dance artists, practitioners, choreographers, companies and scientists.
“I see the award as a way of saying what we do matters – dance matters and dance can change people’s lives,” said Michelle.
She said her win was recognition of “the whole dance community at Edge Hill”.
“I hope our students feel proud that they study within a community which offers opportunities for them to aspire and achieve their goals.”
Michelle, a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, has been teaching for more than 30 years across a range of professional, institutional and community contexts in Europe and the UK.
The Inspirational Lecturer at College, University or Conservatoire award highlights her dedication to dance.
She added: “I don’t think the news has quite sunk in yet! It gives me a deep sense of gratitude, to know that hard work and enthusiasm does not go unnoticed.
“The students were buzzing with pride when they saw me for the first time after the announcement but I was quick to remind them that they are the next generation of dance advocates who will make a difference in the world with their dance.
“I love my job and I am incredibly passionate about making dance happen, whether that’s performing, teaching, working in the community, researching or bringing dance to other disciplines such as architecture, sports or health.
“I like to think that my experience, enthusiasm and belief in others helps to spur and nurture the next generation of dancers.”
One Dance UK is the sector support organisation which promotes a stronger, more vibrant and diverse dance sector.
The awards are a chance for people from across the dance sector to unite, celebrate, acknowledge and reward those who have made an impact on the vibrant UK dance landscape with awards in areas such as Dance for Wellbeing, Research in Dance, and Dance Healthcare Practitioner.
BA (Hons) Dance is one of a variety of intellectually stimulating, exciting and industry-relevant degree programmes offered by Edge Hill University.
The Department of Creative Arts provides a broad variety of interdisciplinary subject areas including Animation, Dance, Drama, Film, Media, Music Production, Musical Theatre and Television providing a rich academic experience, underpinned by an eclectic mix of staff research with opportunities for students to develop into the next generation of creative arts professionals.
November 24, 2021
