Dance education was a natural calling and I have been immersed in my namesake school of dance since 1974. This immersion in leadership includes the direction, choreography, instruction and administration of the Joel Hall Dancers and Center (JHDC), an organization that not only includes a school of dance but several resident troupes. Along the way, my study of sociology has aided in my role as advisor to generations of aspiring dancers, along with many individuals in search of self and place.My professional dance training has included a focus on contemporary, ballet and—of course—jazz, all of which are evident in my artistic expression. In addition to choreographing works for my own company, I have created works for Ballet Chicago, Zenon, Chicago Opera Theatre, Eisenhower Dance and many others. I had an exciting brush with Hollywood when I worked with Goldie Hawn, providing instruction in choreographed movement for the popular film Wildcats.Goals for the JHDC are natural extensions of the personal and professional goals I set for myself. The organization includes three dance companies, a school of dance, a large group of instructors and the board of directors. No one ever says that maintaining a non-profit arts organization is easy. Sustainability of the organization is always at the forefront. Current goals focus on the development of a strong and stable long-range plan of sustainability. Through ongoing strategic planning, goals will be met.Specialties: The Joel Hall Jazz Dance Method is my professional training and teaching methodology, a true dance education. My Method, grounded in the jazz idiom, provides a strong and serious learning experience for instructors and students of dance. At JHDC, our focus is on the training of dance instructors and professional-track students. JHDC provides all dance students with time-tested, traditional instruction in dance etiquette. Technique and discipline are incorporated into every class.