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Since May 1, 2015, KDA has been championing the arts in California’s Central Valleys, impacting nearly 200,000 lives and raising $5 million to support artists and programs. Today, we are celebrating 10 YEARS! 🥳

From sparking learning through dance to aiding healthcare with creative therapies, we’ve proudly committed ourselves to making the arts more accessible by creating unique experiences meant to uplift our communities together! 🙌

We’ve used the arts to provide solutions that inspire our community, brought world-class talent to our stages, and earned recognition as a leader locally and nationally. 

We’ve also advanced the creative economy by advocating for fair pay for artists. The arts aren’t a luxury; they’re a cornerstone of the Central Valley’s economic vitality, driving innovation and growth. By centering culture as an essential asset, we’re building a future where creativity is valued in spirit and practice. ❤️🌟

But, we didn’t build this alone. KDA stands on the shoulders of trailblazers who laid the groundwork for the arts in our region – their legacy is the foundation of our work. Because of their efforts throughout the years, we proudly work alongside artists, advocates, and organizations continuing to weave a richer cultural tapestry. 🫶

Thank you to our board, donors, partners, artists, volunteers, media, consultants, leaders, and community—past and present—for weaving this vibrant tapestry with us. Together, we’ve built a legacy where voices are heard, stories are danced, and dreams soar. 

Here’s to 10 years of impact and many more of uplifting the Central Valley through the arts over the next decade. 🎈🎁

Help us celebrate 🔟 YEARS! 🥳

 

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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.