Kim is an accomplished dance artist, educator, and administrator with over twenty-five years experience in the field.  She garnered international recognition as a principal dancer with the Repertory Dance Theatre (1984-1996) during which time she performed the works of many of the greatest modern dance choreographers of the 20th century.   Kim distinguished herself as a versatile, engaging, and athletic performer of contemporary as well as, historical works.  

 

Currently,  Kim's main area of research and teaching is in Central and West African dance, music and culture.  She began her studies in African dance in 1992 and continues to conduct her research by traveling to Africa and living with the people and studying the dances of a particular region.  Most recently, Kim traveled to Guinea, West Africa to study with master teacher Youssouf Koumbassa. 

 

In addition to her administrative duties, Kim teaches a variety of classes for the Department of Dance including:  African I and II, all levels of Modern Technique and Theory, World Dance Forms, Dance As Cultural Practice and Composition.  She continues to choreographic contemporary works and African influenced works for various student and professional companies.

Kimberly T. Strunk has been at UVSC since 2002.