A special ribbon cutting for a game-changing space

Last month, SAB board members and supporters gathered for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the School’s new Artistic Health and Wellness Student Center—a transformative new space made possible by the generosity and vision of so many in our community.

With state-of-the-art Pilates and conditioning studios, private rooms for physical therapy and mental health counseling, study lounges, offices, and a welcoming student commons, SAB’s new Artistic Health and Wellness Student Center represents a major step forward in the School’s ability to support the whole dancer.

To kick off this special evening, guests gathered in SAB’s lobby around the striking Serenade Steps—made possible by board chair emerita Zita Ezpeleta—which provide access to the Center for our intermediate and advanced students.

Jonathan Stafford, the Zita Ezpeleta Artistic Director and Chair of Faculty, spoke about the profound impact this space will have on students’ daily lives before ceremoniously cutting the ribbon to enthusiastic applause. Party-goers then ascended the steps to explore the Center for the first time.

The atmosphere was jubilant as Board Co-Chairs Liz Armstong and Jim Brennan expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals who helped bring this project to fruition. SAB’s Head of Artistic Health and Wellness, Aesha Ash, alongside members of the Student Life team were available to offer tours and answer questions as guests weaved through the facilities enjoying cocktails and canapés.

Many patrons posed alongside spaces named for them. Ken Endelman, CEO of Balanced Body, took special pride in the fully outfitted Pilates studio, equipped with Balanced Body’s donated equipment that will benefit generations of dancers to come.

Bill and Liz Armstrong outside the Armstrong Studio One.

Jim Brennan with his family outside the Brennan Family Pantry

Ken Endelman with Aesha Ash and guests inside the new Pilates studio.

Bill Lewis with Aesha Ash outside the Strength and Conditioning studio named in honor of Carolyn Wright-Lewis

Christine Morenz with the Morenz Studio Lounge

Kellie Abreau next to the Kellie Johnson Abroad Wellness Office and Susan Millstein with the Susan Frame Millstein Reception Desk.

It was an intimate yet momentous evening—one that celebrated both the future of our students and the extraordinary community that made it possible.

This project is a testament to what can be achieved through shared purpose and generosity. We extend our deepest thanks to our board leadership, board members, partners, donors, and the entire SAB community for bringing this visionary endeavor to life!

All photos on this page by Marsha Bernstein