Santa Barbara Dance Institute

The Santa Barbara Dance Institute (SBDI) is a nonprofit organization based in Santa Barbara, California, dedicated to promoting arts education through dance. Founded in 2005 by Rosalina Macisco, SBDI is committed to inspiring discipline, excellence, and self-belief in children by integrating dance into their educational experiences.

Mission

SBDI's mission is centered around spreading joy, connection, and love through dance. The organization aims to foster tenacity and a standard of excellence in individuals, promoting a belief in oneself that extends beyond the dance studio into all aspects of life. This mission is achieved by providing direct programming and professional development for educators to integrate dance into school curriculums.

Programs and Impact

Since its inception, SBDI has grown significantly, reaching over 20,000 students annually. The organization's programs immerse individuals in music and dance, fostering a love of the arts and personal achievement. SBDI collaborates closely with the City and County of Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara Office of Arts and Culture to deliver its projects.

Funding

SBDI is supported by grants from various organizations. Notable recent funding includes a $20,000 grant from the Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program, a $10,000 grant from the Williams-Corbett Foundation for an intergenerational dance pilot program, and a $10,000 grant from the Santa Barbara Foundation for arts, culture, and humanities. In fiscal year 2023, SBDI reported total revenues of $219,198, with significant contributions coming from grants and program services.

Leadership

Rosalina Macisco serves as the Executive Director of SBDI. She is a choreographer, dance educator, and stage director with extensive experience in professional performance and arts education. Macisco is dedicated to ongoing education and leadership development, having participated in several artist development programs.

Cultural Impact

SBDI's commitment to arts education reflects a broader belief in the transformative power of dance to engage and inspire children. By promoting diversity in arts programming and advocating for the inclusion of dance in public education, SBDI plays a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of Santa Barbara.

[1] https://www.sbdi.org/our-board [2] https://www.sbdi.org [3] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/santa-barbara-dance-institute,264255635/ [4] https://www.santabarbara.com/community/performing-arts/santa-barbara-dance-institute/ [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/26-4255635