BodyVox extends heartfelt thanks to outgoing Development Director Rene Contakos for seven years of dedicated service. Rene played a pivotal role in the company’s success and culture while serving as a passionate ambassador in the Portland community.
The company is thrilled to welcome Dominique Fernandez as the new Director of Individual Giving. With more than a decade of fundraising experience across Columbus nonprofits, Dominique excels at building authentic relationships with donors, corporations, and foundations. Most recently, as Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at I Am Boundless, she expanded individual giving, corporate partnerships, and grant programs, and played a key role in securing major support for the organization’s first capital campaign. An active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, she is passionate about creating lasting community impact and is excited to support BodyVox’s innovative and community-focused work in Portland’s vibrant arts scene.
In addition, longtime Grant Writer Kitty Sailer (since 2023) steps into the new role of Director of Institutional Giving, where she will continue driving the Development department forward.
On the artistic front, Founding Co-Artistic Directors Jamey Hampton and Ashley Roland welcome Daniel Kirk and Brent Luebbert as new Co-Artistic Directors. A founding dancer and former Associate Artistic Director, Daniel Kirk has been instrumental in shaping BodyVox’s artistic and cultural identity. Brent Luebbert, a veteran company dancer and Associate Artistic Director since 2024, brings deep institutional knowledge and artistic vision to the leadership team.
BodyVox operations remain under the steady leadership of Director of Operations Tasha Hamilton and Dance Center General Manager Asteria Howard, both of whom joined the organization in 2023.
Looking Ahead to the 29th Season
BodyVox’s 2026-27 season features a dynamic mix of home performances and exciting tours to Japan, Western Oregon University, and Dartmouth College.
- October: Get into the Halloween spirit with Creepy Cupcakes, a two-weekend run featuring six guest choreographers and spooky, delightful new works.
- November: The company tours to its sister state of Toyama, Japan, for 10 days of performances and workshops.
- January: CINEVOX, BodyVox’s acclaimed three-day festival of dance on film, showcasing works from around the world.
- April: The company returns to The Reser Center in Beaverton with a celebration of BodyVox’s Iconic Repertoire. Later that month, the ensemble tours the full-length work Beautiful Everything to Dartmouth College in New Hampshire.
- May: The season closes with Mini Pearl, highlighting the Junior Artist Generator performing works by celebrated choreographers.
Season tickets are now on sale. Visit bodyvox.org to secure your seats.
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