Judith Jamison

Judith Jamison is the Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the best-known and most popular modern dance company in the United States. The daughter of a sheet metal worker and teacher, Jamison was sent to classical dance classes at the age of six. Jamison later attended the Philadelphia Dance Academy, where she was recruited Agnes de Mille for the American Ballet Theatre. When the dance production closed, she did a stint as an amusement ride operator at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City. Jamison was invited by Alvin Ailey to join his company as a principal dancer. For the next 15 years, she thrilled and captivated audiences around the world as “modern dance’s first box-office star.” Jamison then went on to star in the hit Broadway musical “Sophisticated Ladies” based on Duke Ellington’s music. In 1988, she returned to the Ailey troupe to carry on the legacy of its founder. Jamison rejuvenated the company and extended the heritage of black expression. This majestic dancer-teacher-choreographer is acclaimed as one of the most influential forces in American culture. Jamison’s numerous awards include the Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts. Judith Jamison participated in the 1992 Achievement Summit in Las Vegas and spoke to the student delegates about her life and career.