KDA, a nonprofit arts organization supporting and promoting dance and the arts in California’s Central Valley, is now accepting applications for its 2027 internship program.
KDA is seeking highly organized, detail-oriented intern(s) who can meet deadlines, manage multiple tasks, take initiative, and support the KDA Board of Directors throughout the year. The internship is a volunteer position and a strong résumé-builder. Interns may earn points toward induction into the KDA National Honor Society for Dance Arts Secondary Chapter, complete high school or college service hours, receive letters of recommendation, and gain hands-on experience in arts administration.
The 2027 internship runs January 1 through December 31, 2027. Interns are expected to commit approximately 10–20 hours per month. Working under the supervision of the KDA President and Executive Director, interns will assist across event coordination, development, social media, communications, and administration.
Responsibilities may include:
• General administrative support, including filing, organizing, data entry, and social media
• Donor and member follow-up and thank-you processes
• Event coordination for programming and development
• Volunteer management
• Writing blogs, website content, and newsletter support
• Completing a passion project
Preferred qualifications:
• Passion for dance and the arts • Current KDA membership at the $35 Student level
• Experience in event planning, leadership, and communications • Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity with nonprofit environments and a willingness to help where needed
• Proficiency with Mac and Windows systems, Microsoft Office, email, and social media
• A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and team-player mindset
Internships are unpaid but may be used for course credit. Interns receive a letter of recommendation upon request and discounted access to KDA events. Participants gain experience supporting events and office operations, familiarity with KDA’s mission, nonprofit skills, and stronger research, writing, networking, and organizational abilities.
APPLY
Applicants must submit a completed application form, cover letter, résumé, and two letters of recommendation – kerndance.org/GETINVOLVED
Application deadline: Friday, November 13, 2026
Apply at: https://form.jotform.com/kerndance/kda-student-internship-application For more information, visit kerndance.org.
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.
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.