Support LEAP
The LEAP Performing Artist-Scholar Fund
In support of professional dancers pursuing higher education.
LEAP provides higher education of exceptional quality to professional dancers, a community for whom access to college has been traditionally rare or impractical. In alignment with Saint Mary’s core values and traditions, LEAP makes it possible for dancers to prepare intellectually and emotionally for a meaningful life beyond dance performance. LEAP provides this opportunity by offering students the chance to explore different disciplines, develop multiple perspectives, discover new passions, and become confident, lifelong learners.
Since 1999, LEAP has made it possible for professional dancers to earn a Bachelor's degree without disrupting their artistic or professional pursuits.
In alignment with the Saint Mary’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, LEAP has always endeavored to keep tuition costs as low as possible.
Please join us in this mission by donating to our LEAP Performing Artist-Scholar Fund today.
350 students (and counting) have earned their Bachelor's Degree through the LEAP Program.
50% of LEAP graduates go on to earn graduate level degrees from some of the top schools in the world.
All LEAP graduates report increased job satisfaction, security, and income.
Ashley Jackson, Class of 2020
"I am so grateful for my time in the LEAP program. It has made transitioning from dance enormously better."
Former dancer with Alonzo King's LINES Ballet.
Give Once
A single donation of $100,000 provides a tuition-free education to three students.
Give Annually
An annual contribution of $50,000 pays for 5 students to receive full-ride scholarships every year.
Give Monthly
100 donors pledging just $25 a month supports the entire tuition of 3 students per semester.
Alumni Achievements
LEAP graduates are arts and non-profit leaders, business owners, lawyers, active participants in their communities, and continually accepted into graduate programs at major institutions including Harvard, Yale, NYU, and USC.
The LEAP Program is but a single step toward each dancers growth and cultural contributions.
Alex Chester, Class of 2021
As a performer, Alex has toured nationally and performed on Broadway. She is the founder and CEO of Mixed Asian Media, a platform to explore pertinent experiences, build powerful relationships, and discover sought-after clarity in the mixed-Asian narrative. Through this platform, she produces the Mixed Asian Media festival, a film festival partially developed through her LEAP Capstone Project in 2021.
J. Anderson, Class of 2022
As a performer, J. has danced in major events including the Tony Awards and Met Gala. Even before graduating from LEAP, J. had been accepted into the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley where he will earn his Master's Degree in 2024.
Featured Photos:
From Left to Right:
Kennetha Morris (Class of 2023), Nina Yoshida (Class of 2023), Melinda Soderling (Class of 2023), Kafi Pierre (Class of 2023)