​Last month, SUNY Brockport undergraduate Anaheysha Baptiste, BFA Dance Class of 2026, was honored as the second-ever recipient of the Garth Fagan Legacy Award. This prestigious $10,000 award, established by SUNY Brockport, recognizes an outstanding graduating student who embodies the spirit, artistry, and legacy of Garth Fagan.

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Upon receiving the award, Anaheysha shared:

"Receiving this scholarship is both an honor and a meaningful source of support as I begin my journey as a graduate from Brockport. As a dual major in Dance and Public Health, this scholarship will help me continue pursuing my educational and professional goals by providing opportunities that might not have been accessible to me."

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​"I am committed to combining my passions for dance and public health to create a meaningful impact. One of my goals is to travel to Guinea, West Africa, to study traditional dance and drumming within their cultural context, deepening my understanding and strengthening my ability to share these practices authentically. I am especially inspired by the legacy of Garth Fagan, whose work reflects the power of movement to tell stories, preserve culture, and transform lives, and I hope to carry that same intention in my own path.

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I plan to use my education and experiences to create spaces for healing, connection, and community through movement. Whether through teaching or community programming, I am determined to use dance as a tool to support both cultural expression and overall well-being. This scholarship not only supports my education but also affirms the purpose behind my work, giving me confidence as I move forward, knowing others believe in the impact of what I hope to achieve."

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Natalie Rogers-Cropper, Executive Director of Garth Fagan Dance, reflected on the significance of the award:

"Anaheysha's vision for using dance as a force for connection, cultural preservation, and community well-being speaks directly to the values that Garth Fagan has championed throughout his career. We are honored to see this award support emerging artists who are committed not only to artistic excellence but also to making a meaningful impact in the world around them."

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The establishment of the Garth Fagan Legacy Award has the potential to profoundly impact the lives of its recipients while furthering Garth Fagan's legacy—an essential pillar of our company's mission. By supporting the next generation of artists and leaders, the award ensures that the values of creativity, cultural expression, and community engagement continue to flourish.

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Join us in congratulating Anaheysha Baptiste on receiving this incredible honor.