Kimberly Crislip Jarvis is an esteemed teaching artist, choreographer, and administrator, known for her exceptional contributions to the creative arts. With an impressive educational background, Kimberly holds degrees and certifications from respected institutions such as the Scandinavian Institute for Physical Culture in Denmark, the American College of Sports Medicine, Malone University, and the University of Akron.

Throughout her career, Kimberly has collaborated with Kent State University, Ballet Magnificat! in Jackson, Mississippi, and Jacob’s Pillow in Massachusetts, where she had the privilege of working alongside esteemed dancers such as Merce Cunningham, Meredeth Monk, Craig Patterson, Patricia Lent, Susanna Chaffey, Jennifer Way, Milton Myers, and Dianne McIntyre. She also made significant contributions to Wayne Center Ballet in Wooster, Ohio, and Dancing Wheels in Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing her exceptional talents and versatility.

Currently, Kimberly serves as the Executive Director of the Buckeye Book Fair in Wooster, Ohio, where she passionately inspires and nurtures the creative arts. Her professional journey has been further enriched by her performances with inspiring dance companies such as Leaven Dance Company in Ohio and Lori Belilove and Company in New York. She also served as adjunct faculty at Kent State University.

A notable accomplishment in Kimberly’s career is the establishment and directorship of the Living Fountain Dance Company from 1993 to 2010 in Canton, Ohio. During her tenure, she spearheaded the implementation of the JOYDANCE program for Community Health Services in Summit County, a transformative initiative made possible by an Ohio Criminal Justice grant and the Ohio Arts Council. Under Kimberly’s visionary leadership, Living Fountain Dance Company crafted dance theatre education programs for Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority, Massillon Recreation Department, Kent State University Stark Campus, Malone University (including a dance tour in Ukrainian Orphanages), First Friends Church, Edgewood Community Center, and True Impact (a motivational assembly touring Stark County middle schools).

Kimberly’s artistic endeavors have transcended geographical boundaries, as demonstrated by her captivating performance in Assisi, Italy, in 2014, alongside Dr. Cynthia Krenzel-Dogett and renowned concert pianist Stefanos Spanopoulos. Before assuming the role of coordinating the Department of Dance at Wayne Center for the Arts, Kimberly astoundingly produced 55 dance and multimedia concerts, including five live music projects and three performances accompanied by symphony orchestras.

Continuing her dedication to education and innovation, Kimberly is currently focused on developing groundbreaking programs that bridge dance with other disciplines. These include the Moving to Math and Science program, a remarkable K-5th grade dance program that merges movement and STEM education, the transformative Dancing from the Inside-Out program, which incorporates trauma-informed approaches to enhance well-being and creative aging, and PUREMOVEMENT, an innovative afterschool program that engages and inspires young minds.

Kimberly Crislip Jarvis stands as a figure in the field of dance, showcasing her unwavering commitment to artistic excellence, education, and community engagement. She is advocating for healthy organizational environments that do not tolerate harassment of any kind, racism, homophobia, or abuse of power. Her contributions continue to inspire generations of dancers and artists alike.

Availability

Mornings and afternoons, upon request with advanced scheduling

Video courtesy of the teaching artist.