News

Congratulations to Vicki Adams Willis!

By Heather Close
< 1 min read | August 27, 2020

We are filled with pride and congratulations that our Founder in Residence Vicki Adams Willis, is receiving the UCalgary Alumni Association’s highest honour–the Distinguished Alumni Award for Lifetime Achievement.

This award recognizes a graduate who, over the course of their life, has made a notable contribution that’s improved their professional and personal success, and enriched the lives of others through their leadership, shared knowledge, creativity and innovation.

Click here to read more about Vicki

“We couldn’t be more thrilled with this announcement. Vicki has had an impact on thousands of people, from emerging to established dancers, choreographers, musicians, directors, and technicians, to dance teachers and students, and tens of thousands of fans. Her deep knowledge of and respect for the authentic roots of jazz combined with her curiosity and creative spirit in exploring the boundless future of jazz have made her a leading force in the art form in Canada and beyond.”  –Kimberley Cooper

Watch a clip of Every Tap Show Needs a Soft Shoe performed in 2009 as part of the show twentyfive.  This piece was originally choreographed in 1996 by Vicki Adams Willis and Heather Cornell for DJD’s production Feet First.

Vicki will receive the Distinguished Alumni Award at a virtual ceremony hosted by U of C on September 10 at 7pm.