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KDA ANNOUNCES 2026 NATIONAL HONORS SOCIETY FOR DANCE ARTS INDUCTION PROGRAM

Kern Dance Alliance (KDA), an established Secondary Chapter of the National Honors Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA), is excited to provide access to this prestigious program for 9th–12th grade students studying dance who meet national induction requirements. NHSDA, a program of the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO), recognizes outstanding artistic merit, leadership, and academic achievement among dance students in public and private schools, dance studios, cultural centers, and performing arts organizations. Since its launch for secondary students in 2005, NHSDA has inducted thousands of students nationwide, promoting high standards in dance education and offering national prestige. Students interested in becoming inducted in 2026 are invited to learn more about the induction requirements and apply. To qualify for induction, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and earn at least 30 points through a structured system that rewards dance activities, such as classes, rehearsals, performances, choreography, teaching, and leadership roles. At least 20 points must come from participation in
chapter-related programs. Full details on the point system and rubrics are available on the KDA NHSDA webpage. Inductees receive valuable benefits, including a certificate of recognition, gold honors pin, blue and white honor cord, and medallion for graduation ceremonies. Membership also enhances college applications, provides leadership opportunities through chapter activities, and qualifies students for scholarships like the NHSDA Artistic Merit, Leadership, and Academic Achievement Award. Kern County students who attend a high school without a dance program, or whose high school or private dance studio is not a current NHSDA chapter, are eligible for induction through KDA’s chapter. This inclusive model expands access to national recognition and ensures that motivated students are not limited by institutional barriers. “We’re thrilled to open NHSDA induction to all deserving Kern County students, helping them shine on a national stage and fostering their growth as artists and leaders,” said Marcie Hronis, KDA President.

KDA 2026 NHSDA PROGRAM DATES, TIMES, AND LOCATIONS:
● KDA NHSDA Webinar Meeting via Zoom: Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST     REGISTER at kerndance.org/nhsda
● KDA NHSDA Student Induction Application Deadline: Wednesday, April 1, 2026
● KDA NHSDA 2026 Induction Ceremony: Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Bakersfield Country Club

KDA is committed to ensuring that excelling dance students throughout Kern County have every opportunity to grow, be recognized, and succeed, regardless of where they receive their training. Photos from past induction ceremonies are available upon request for media use. To learn more about NHSDA, please visit ndeo.org/nhsda

For More Information – Email NHSDA@kerndance.org

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Jen Thompson

Vice President | Board Member

Jennifer Thompson is a proud Bakersfield native who fell in love with dance before she even started school. She grew up training under the guidance of renowned local instructor Georgia Peck, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for movement and expression. Jennifer pursed her academic education with equal enthusiasm, earning both her BA and MA in English from National University. For over 20 years, she has worked as an English teacher with the Kern High School District, where ahe has inspired generations of students with her love of literature and language. Recently, she has decided to begin a new chapter-transitioning from teaching English to teaching dance. She is thrilled to channel her passion into helping build and strengthen the fine arts program, where she can continue to inspire students through the transformative power of the arts. In addition to her work in education, Jennifer has proudly served as a board member with Kern Dance Alliance for the past four years. She loves the opportunity to bring dance to her community, spreading joy and encouraging creative expression in people of all ages. Outside of the classroom and studio, Jennifer has raised two grown children who are now pursuing their own passions-a journey that continues to inspire her both personally and professionally. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dogs, diving into a good book, and-of course-continuing to take dance classes herself.

Marcie Hronis

President | Board Member

Marcie Hronis is a distinguished author, dedicated arts advocate, accomplished business proprietor, and renowned interview specialist who resides in the vibrant community of Bakersfield, California.

With a dance career spanning nearly two decades, Marcie honed her craft through rigorous classical ballet training under the esteemed Royal Academy of Dance, achieving the pinnacle of her dance education with a distinction in the Advanced II examination. Marcie’s artistic journey included a passion for modern dance, where her formative training was shaped by the profound influences of Lester Horton and Martha Graham.

As the proprietor of Marcie Hronis Communications, she has garnered accolades and recognition as an award-winning interview coach, serving a diverse clientele across the nation.

Marcie is a published author, having penned the highly acclaimed vegan cookbook titled “Believe it or Not” available worldwide on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Wal-Mart.

Furthermore, Marcie has assumed the esteemed position of President of Kern Dance Alliance, stepping into this role in 2023 following the legacy of Andrea Hansen. Her enduring commitment to the organization is exemplified by her role as a founding board member. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role as one of the co-creators of ADAPTIdance: DANCE + DISABILITY, Kern County’s exclusive adaptive dance program in collaboration with the League of Dreams.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Marcie shares her life with her husband, Demetri, and together, they are parents to two children. Both of their children are engaged in pursuits ranging from classical dance, singing, and piano, to the expressive world of painting.