Abby Avery
Graduate of Friends University’s ballet program 2002 grant
of $3000 to study in summer programs at Ballet Austin and
The Milwaukee Ballet
“I grew up in Overland Park. I studied dance there beginning at the age of five and never quit! But as a professional ballet dancer, there were few options for me at home. I knew I would have to spread my wings in order to pursue my dream.
“I am about to begin my fourth season with the San Diego Ballet. San Diego has been an excellent place for my career to grow. I find the classes to be challenging and choreography to be innovative and exciting to learn. We tour throughout the season which is always fun. It’s so wonderful to love what you do and be excited to go to work every day.
“I would like to say thank you to Liz Koch for all she has done for the arts in Kansas. It is because of people like her that artists like me are able to follow their dreams and achieve goals that they thought were once unattainable. Thank you also to the selection committee in choosing me as a recipient of the KCT grant. I hope that I have represented Koch foundations positively and been able to help pave the way for up-and-coming artists.”