Earlier, we introduced you to Kappa Pi: The International Art Honor Society, and today, we are taking a look at a type of art that you can’t find on a canvas or in a sculpture park: dance!

The National Honor Society for Dance Arts is an honor society program dedicated to recognizing outstanding achievements in dance arts for students from grades 6 to collegiate-level. A fairly new program, having started in 2005 before expanding in 2012 and 2016, NHSDA’s mission is “To recognize outstanding artistic merit, leadership, and academic achievement in students studying dance in public and private schools in K-12 education, dance studios, cultural/community centers, performing arts organizations, and post-secondary education. And, to foster an appreciation for dance as a true art form and one worthy of recognition and prestige.”

NHSDA offers students mentorship and networking opportunities, certificates for each level accomplished, and leadership/development training. In order to qualify for membership, students must attend a school or cultural/community center that is a part of the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) network. Additional requirements include:

• Junior Program (Grades 6-8)
• Complete a minimum of 15 points awarded for dance activities (performances, workshops, rehearsals, community service, etc.)
• Have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA
• Secondary Program (Grades 9-12)
• Complete a minimum of 30 points awarded for dance activities (see above)
• Have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA
• Collegiate Program
• Requirements left up to the individual institution 
• Institution must be in good standing within NDEO

There are currently 1,000 chapters across the US with over 10,000 members inducted within the last two years alone! You’ll recognize these outstanding dance scholars off-stage by their blue and white honor cords on graduation day.

Are you a member of NHSDA? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Cover photo by Michael Afonso on Unsplash