Nikki Martin has been selected as the “Outstanding Senior” by the University of Arizona School of Dance for the 2025 spring semester.
Here’s a summary of Assistant Professor Sarah Lisette Chiesa’s nomination letter:
Nikki stands out as a strong leader in the program, who consistently expresses her passion for dance, choreography, and performance full out with feeling. It has been an absolute pleasure to have her in class and see her work flourish. She diligently applies constructive critique, is eager to learn and grow, and is a kind and confident person who is supportive of her peers. In addition to Nikki’s BFA in Dance she will graduate with a Bachelor of Science as well. She sets a wonderful example for her peers with her professionalism, optimism, and joyful energy.
As a performer Nikki showcased her versatility being cast in faculty works in modern, and jazz areas and has performed in Martha Graham’s Chronicles and Alvin Ailey’s Streams.
She creates interdisciplinary opportunities for herself and has collaborated as both a performer and choreographer blending complex concepts of identity and science in the University of Arizona’s already existing performance as Research Endeavors.
Nikki has taken an active role as a College of Science Ambassador, a member of the Undergraduate Biology Research Program, an intern at the Sports Medicine, Rehabilitation and Concussion Center, The Physio Shop, and Dr. Ravishankar Palnivelu’s Genomics of Thermotolerant Tomato Reproduction Lab.
- Spring 2025 Graduation Convocation | May 18 | 2p | Centennial Hall
How would you describe your experience at the College of Fine Arts?
As a student double majoring in both Dance and Biology here at the university, I have had the opportunity to work with people of many walks of life. I have spent my days training in the beautiful studios at Stevie Eller to then rush over to make it on time to my chemistry lecture, all the while causing my friends to be so concerned as to why I am so sweaty when I arrive at the Koffler building. I have found the most fulfillment when performing during my time here, and I am so grateful to the opportunities both inside and outside the university that the School of Dance and College of Fine Arts has given me. Being able to engage in cutting edge research in science and medicine and connecting the community of scientists and artists I know has made my experience at the university feel all the more holistic and connected.
What’s your favorite memory or experience?
One of my favorite memories was giving an information session as a College of Science ambassador and as I was describing my experience in both the College of Fine Arts and the College of Science as well as how I have been able to combine my interests through choreography and collaboration between the colleges, a prospective student looked as if her eyes lit up. After I finished sharing my story, she approached me afterwards and told me I was doing exactly what she wanted to do, to pursue both dance and medicine. She said that she had felt so unsure about the pathway beforehand but knowing that I was successful completing the same journey she felt comforted … being able to mentor upcoming students and provide hope that their goals are achievable has been my favorite part of being a student here.
What experiences of leadership were impactful?
My time as a College of Science ambassador has been particularly impactful as I have been the voice representing pursuits in the arts and sciences. The perspective I have been able to provide prospective science students into how they can involve themselves in the arts while maintaining their science studies has been very helpful for many individuals. Within the School of Dance, many underclassmen have now approached me with questions as to how they can take a similar path as me and pursue both of their passions.
How did you get involved in community service?
I was part of the pioneer class at the School of Dance called Traveling Ensemble. Through this course, I developed a show that we were able to bring to local elementary schools. Being able to expose underprivileged students in the Tucson community to a professional level of dance as well as inform them on the benefits of bringing dance into their everyday lives was incredibly rewarding.
I was recently awarded the Ralphie Spirit Award at the School of Dance which is a student-nominated award within the program based on these principles: Optimism of the ‘glass half full’ variety, Kindness that manifests itself in daily acts of generosity, Aspiration that is undaunted and filled with the lust for life, A Sense of Self that is unique and unapologetic, and An Attitude of the noble variety.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I am looking forward to assisting my professor Samuel Watson at a dance festival in Bolzano, Italy for two weeks this summer. Following my trip to Italy, I am hoping to continue auditioning for dance opportunities that will travel me worldwide.
Spring 2025 Graduation Awards
- Aracely Rodriguez | School of Art | Outstanding Senior
- Ricardo Chavez | School of Art | Outstanding Graduate
- Nikki Martin | School of Dance | Outstanding Senior
- Kevan Sullivan | CFA / School of Dance | Outstanding Graduate
- Gloria Orozco Dorado | School of Music | Outstanding Graduate
- Dylan Cook | CFA / School of Music | Outstanding Senior
- Julia Franco | School of Theatre, Film & Television | Outstanding Senior