Help us celebrate 25 years of LEAP!

In 1999, Claire Sheridan recognized the need for a cost-effective and flexible approach to higher education in order to serve the professional dance community. Professional dancers have been historically underrepresented in academia. Long days dedicated to training and rehearsals rarely leave room for college classes. With LEAP’s innovative approach to prior learning assessment and class scheduling, Saint Mary’s has made it possible to bridge the gap between a career in dance and a liberal arts education.

Now, 25 years later, LEAP supports hundreds of students from across the country. Our alumni consistently excel beyond graduation, becoming leaders in the performing arts as well as transitioning into business owners, healthcare practitioners, lawyers, and more. Many of our alumni have even continued their educational journey, attending leading graduate programs at schools including Harvard and Yale.

This year, in celebration of our 25th anniversary, we’re looking to engage 25 new donors dedicated to supporting dancers in higher education. Help us continue to provide a cost-effective education to our amazing students!