Dancing her Way to the Top

Katricia makes an impact on the Dallas arts scene.

Educational Opportunities lifted a heavy financial burden from my family’s shoulders. The consistency of the scholarship allowed me to focus on my education and not worry about money.

I am thankful for having received my Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Dance with a minor in Business from the University of North Texas. Although I am the second person in my family to go to college, I was the first person to attend college without needing a loan.

Monthly communications with my EdOp mentor, [the late] Ginny Sillers, provided me with encouragement and accountability. Mrs. Sillers often would tell me, “You’re doing such a good job!” and, “You’re doing all the things that you envisioned for yourself.” At that time, the only requirement was to turn in my transcript and come to dinners twice a year. Those dinners were invaluable because I connected with other students, talked abut their journeys, shared success stories, and laughed with other mentors like Bob Marshall. Even after I became a professional touring dancer with Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Mrs. Sillers and I stayed connected. Moreover, she continued her encouragement as I began my graduate program in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary.

I am truly thankful for the EdOp experience.