Cincinnati, Ohio – December 19, 2016 - Saint Ursula Academy junior Georgia Fuller ‘18 of Hyde Park has been announced as a 2017 National YoungArts Foundation Finalist in Dance. From more than 12,000 applications—the largest number to date—166 young artists from 40 states were selected for their outstanding artistic achievements across the literary, visual, design and performing arts and were named as finalists in this year’s competition. Georgia was selected as one of only six ballet dancers for her outstanding talents and abilities in classical ballet.
As a Finalist, Georgia will attend the 36th annual National YoungArts Week in Miami from January 8 through 15. This week-long event aims to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration and community while offering participants the guidance needed to prepare for the next stage of their artistic development. During the intensive, week-long and all-inclusive program, artists across 10 disciplines participate in master classes and workshops with internationally recognized leaders in their field.
Winners of the competition receive cash awards of up to $10,000, validation by renowned mentors, opportunities to participate in YoungArts programs, a strong professional network, and guidance in taking important steps toward achieving their goals. Additionally, the National YoungArts Foundation is the exclusive nominating agency for the U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. YoungArts nominates 60 YoungArts Winner each year to the White House-appointed Commission on Presidential Scholars, 20 of whom are selected to become U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts.
Georgia, a dancer since she was two years old, is looking forward to her upcoming experience in Florida.
“I cannot wait to work with all of the amazingly talented artists who will be there at experience all of the wonderful teaching and advice from everyone in Miami during YoungArts Week. I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous though! I am looking very forward to performing my classical variation onstage in front of an audience on Wednesday, January 4. I am just so grateful and thankful that I have been given this amazing opportunity and experience. God is truly good!”
Georgia credits her success to long hours of hard work and a team of mentors and supporters who have been there for her over the last 14 years. Her parents have always been supportive of her passion for dance and have encouraged her to challenge herself every step of the way. Likewise, Kristi Capps, former Cincinnati Ballet Principal Dancer, has been a source of tremendous support and inspiration as Georgia fostered and perfected her love of classical ballet. And finally, Georgia believes that she would not have been chosen as a YoungArts Finalist if wasn’t for Dawn Kelly, former Cincinnati Ballet Soloist. Dawn pushed her to perfect not only her technique, but her artistry and character as well. She owes her success and progress in this competition to Dawn.
While Georgia’s dance schedule keeps her tremendously busy, she still finds time to participate in the Gingers & Co. Club, Harry Potter Club, and Earth Club at Saint Ursula Academy. After graduation in 2018, Georgia intends to pursue her passion in dance by either attending a college with a dance program or attending college while working as a dance trainee. With her recent success and hard work and determination, Saint Ursula is certain that Georgia will be sharing her passion for dance with others for many years.
Saint Ursula Academy is a Catholic, college-preparatory, secondary school for young women known for academic excellence and rich tradition. Saint Ursula welcomes students from more than 90 grade schools in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Academy is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School. The campus, located at 1339 E. McMillan Street in East Walnut Hills has been the home of St. Ursula Academy and Convent since 1910. 86% of the Class of 2016 earned college scholarships totaling more than $22-million.
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Photo Caption: Georgia Fuller ’18 of Hyde Park was named a 2017 YoungArts Foundation Finalist. She will travel to Miami, Florida in January to participate in classes and workshops, work with dance mentors, perform her classical ballet variation, and compete in the competition.