Whitworth’s primary goal as an institution is to educate the ‘Mind and Heart’ of its students, but further than that, the Honors Program wants students to thrive in the world they are stepping into. A crucial part of that is in movement and education of the body, in addition to the trademarked ‘mind and heart.’

Jubilation Dance Ministry is a club on campus for people in the Whitworth Community, “who seek to enjoy community and honor God, develop relationships, create art and express authentic emotions through dance.” And despite the distinctive evangelical tilt of the name, they, “welcome dancers of all skill levels and faith backgrounds, with the hope of sharing dance in the wider community and reflecting God’s love.”

Jubilation showcases date back to the 90´s expressing the language of the heart; dance. The club maintains a mission of cultivating safe educational spaces for artistic and creative expression. This student-led ministry is inclusive of all dance experience levels, as well as faith backgrounds- inviting everyone to explore worship and meaning through the athletic art of dance!

I spoke to the current Club President Lauren Micheal, and she provided this statement, “Jubilation has been one of my favorite aspects of Whitworth! It has given me, and so many others, an opportunity to explore dance in an inclusive, non-competitive, and community focused environment. Jub welcomes everyone. No matter your faith background and no matter your level of dance training. My favorite part is the people and the community that Jubilation creates! I have gotten to try new styles of dance, and my love for the art form has grown exponentially as I continue to learn and grow in my practice! Jubilation has healed “scars” from my previous experiences in harshly competitive dance environments, that tainted my love for dance. Jubilation has given me a safe space to creatively express, openly feel and connect- and that is powerful to me, especially in this transformative point of my life”

Jubilation’s Fall Semester Showcase will be in Cowles Auditorium December 7^th at 7pm. The showcase will feature dances from the genres of Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Lyrical and Ballet, Musical Theatre, and Jazz.

If you’re interested in what Jubilation stands for, come to the showcase and keep your eyes peeled for the spring class schedule– learn how you could thrive in your body.