Today, we’d like to introduce you to Tamara Irving.
Hi Tamara, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began with a deep passion for dance, which led me to pursue a career dedicated to it.
Before I danced professionally I earned my business degree in marketing from Howard University and worked in the corporate arena before I took the leap to move to NY to pursue a career in dance.
I began my professional dance career, performing with Disney’s The Lion King both in Hamburg and on the US National tour. During this time, I realized my passion extended beyond performance; I wanted to inspire and educate others through dance.
Transitioning into education, I later completed a Master of Arts in Dance Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Armed with both artistic expertise and business acumen, I embarked on a path to empower dance educators and programs after teaching full-time for 12 years.
Those experiences deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by dance educators and inspired me to establish my consulting firm, TMI Design and Consulting. Through TMI Design and Consulting and my brand, Growing Dance Educator, I offer a range of services, including curriculum development, professional development workshops, and advocacy for dance education.
My commitment to innovation and community engagement has driven me to serve on boards such as Dance Educators of GA Society and Dance Canvas, where I advocate for the advancement of dance education. I am also a co-founder of Dance Stories ATL, which tells stories about Black dance in Atlanta.
Today, I continue to evolve and expand my impact, leveraging my expertise and network to foster creativity, collaboration, and excellence in dance education nationwide.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
While my journey has been deeply fulfilling, it hasn’t been without its challenges.
One significant struggle was navigating the complexities of balancing artistic integrity with educational advocacy. As a professional dancer turned educator, I had to adapt to the administrative demands of school systems while staying true and passionate about the art of dance. I also had to work with the demands of teachers’ schedules and still do my best to support them.
Financial obstacles also posed challenges, especially in the early stages of launching my consulting firm. Diversifying revenue streams and securing funding for programs and initiatives required strategic planning and perseverance. I had to dip deep into my network and not be afraid to ask for help, guidance, and support while building.
Additionally, gaining recognition and trust within the educational community was another hurdle. Convincing those I have served of the value of dance education and overcoming misconceptions about its importance in the curriculum demanded ongoing advocacy efforts.
Despite these challenges, each obstacle has provided valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. They’ve reinforced my commitment to this work, and I will continue to do my part to advance the field of dance.
Thanks for sharing that. Would you be willing to tell us a bit more about your business next?
My business, TMI Design and Consulting, specializes in empowering dance educators and programs through consulting services and professional development opportunities. We are known for curriculum development, mentorship programs, and impactful community engagements that enrich both educators and students alike.
What sets us apart is that we can truly relate to our teachers while integrating artistic integrity with practical educational strategies. We pride ourselves on preparing educators to navigate both the artistic and administrative aspects of their roles effectively while growing professionally.
At the core of our brand is a commitment to excellence and sustainability in dance education. We offer a range of services, including curriculum design, mentorship, workshops, and event planning, all geared toward enhancing the quality and reach of dance education.
We are dedicated to advancing dance education through continuous innovation and collaboration. Whether through our signature courses, customized professional development, or community initiatives, we strive to empower educators and inspire the next generation of dancers and arts leaders.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Apps: ClickUp, Apple Notes, YouTube, CapCut.
Podcast: Educators Moving On, Social Media Decoded, Transformation Church, Mindful Marketing.
Books: Atomic Habits, Launch, Get Together, Becoming, Dance Magazine.
Blog: NDEO Dance Education Blog
https://www.ndeo.org/Learn/Dance-Education-Blog
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tmidesignconsulting.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmi.design.consulting/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TMI.Design.Consulting/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamara-irving/
Image Credits
Nick F. Nelson and Alan Watkins
