Research and Leadership AwardsClick each award listing for information on eligibility, nominations and past awardees. Our 2026 awards cycle closed March 31st, 2026. Find full instructions for each award listed below. Reach out to DSA VP of Awards, Melissa Melpignano at [email protected] with any questions. 2026 Awardees of Research & Leadership Awards will be notified in August 2026. Distinction in Dance AwardAn annual award given to individuals in the annual conference's host city who have contributed significantly to dance in their home community. 2026 Awardee: Renae Williams Niles Outstanding Scholarly Research in Dance AwardThis award honors an exceptional scholar or leader for sustained contributions to dance research. 2026 Awardee: Janet O'Shea Dixie Durr Award for Outstanding Service to Dance ResearchThis award recognizes the aid rendered the field of dance studies by people who sustain existing structures, institutions, and organizations for dance research. 2026 Awardee: Linda Murray Dance in the Public Sphere AwardThis award recognizes renewed and new forms of public access and activism widening the circulation of dance initiatives and resources. 2026 Awardee: Planting Disabled Futures, Petra Kuppers Mid-Career AwardThis award recognizes the leadership of mid-career scholars in the development of our field. 2026 Awardee: Harmony Bench |