Shawn Short brings over two decades of transformative experience as an educator, having taught across multiple academic levels and institutional settings. His educational philosophy combines rigorous technical training with artistic exploration and holistic student development, creating pathways for diverse learners to achieve excellence in the performing arts.
In higher education, Shawn made history as the first African-American Male Ballet Professor at Catholic University of America (2008-2015), where he directed more than 77 students every semester. In this groundbreaking role, he created comprehensive curriculum and assessment methods, conducted entry and placement auditions, and designed weekly lesson plans guiding students through the fundamentals of classical ballet. Beyond classroom instruction, he facilitated supplemental dance training workshops through community partnerships, enhancing the educational experience through real-world connections.
Shawn further expanded his higher education impact as a Graduate Advisor at Wilson College (2018-2020), where he advised MFA dance candidates through individually designed thesis research and final presentations. In this role, he provided professional resources and personal guidance for optimal student development, participated in thesis defense panels, and advised faculty on student relations, demonstrating his commitment to advancing dance education at the graduate level.
Shawn’s leadership in arts education extended to his position as Head of Dance at Adventure Theatre-MTC (2011-2015), where he collaborated with Kennedy Center Education staff to devise NSA-certified dance curriculum for 8-17 dance classes. He conducted teacher observations and evaluations while advising in the hiring of dance staff, demonstrating his commitment to educational excellence at both student and faculty levels.
His foundational work at the Washington Ballet@THEARC (2005-2008) as a Founding Faculty member and Choreographer showcased his ability to work in community-based settings. There, he produced over 100 performance evaluations annually for children and youth, managed 80+ students each semester, and designed weekly lesson plans for students ages 5 through adult in multiple dance disciplines. His exemplary work led to him being featured as an Instructor on CBS Evening News in 2007.
As Summer Program Director for the Kelsey E. Collie Children’s Theatre Experience (2001-2007), Shawn created, managed, and facilitated performing arts programming that successfully trained over 30 community musical theater artists annually. This experience refined his skills in recruiting and managing educational staff while organizing comprehensive program infrastructure.
Shawn’s educational impact extends beyond formal institutions through The Ngoma School, which he established at the University of Maryland College Park. Under his leadership, this program became Prince George’s County’s only dance school aligned with a nationally-recognized contemporary ballet company, serving more than 200 students annually. The school provides pathways to professional opportunities, with many students transitioning to successful careers with prestigious companies and commercial productions.
His educational credentials include an MFA in Dance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (with a 3.9 GPA), a BFA in Musical Theatre from Howard University, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Business Management from the University of Liverpool. He has enhanced his pedagogical expertise through professional certifications, including Progressive Ballet Technique, Vaganova Pedagogy of Ballet, and Ballet Pedagogy with Kee Juan Han.
Recognized for his excellence in education, Shawn was nominated for Dance Teacher Magazine’s “Teacher of the Year” in 2021. He continues to share his knowledge through guest teaching and masterclasses at institutions including American University, Southeastern University, and Howard Community College Dance Festival, extending his educational influence throughout the dance community.
