Monica Steffey Promoted to Director of Programming & Operations at Dance/NYC
Our take
In a vibrant and ever-evolving world of dance, the recent promotion of Monica Steffey to Director of Programming & Operations at Dance/NYC marks a significant milestone not only for the organization but for the entire dance community. Steffey's journey from Operations Manager to her current role exemplifies the power of dedicated leadership and the importance of nurturing organizational infrastructure, especially during a time of growth and transition. Her commitment to creating artist-driven initiatives, as showcased in her founding of the Wet Hairy Women collective, resonates deeply with the values of embodiment and equity that are increasingly vital in our modern society. This shift in leadership invites us to reflect on how dance organizations can remain relevant and supportive in the face of ongoing cultural and societal changes.
The implications of Steffey's promotion extend beyond administrative operations; they represent a broader commitment to community-building within the arts. With her extensive background in both creative practices and community organizing, Steffey is well-positioned to enhance cross-team coordination and encourage collaboration among artists and organizations. This aligns seamlessly with recent endeavors in the dance world, such as the Dance takes center stage in Lincoln Center’s ‘Summer for the City’, which emphasizes the importance of engagement and accessibility in performance art. As she steps into her new role, it will be interesting to observe how her leadership will foster inclusivity and sustainability within Dance/NYC, potentially setting a precedent for other organizations to follow.
Moreover, Steffey's focus on equity and collective sustainability is a vital part of the conversation surrounding body positivity and representation in the arts. The dance community has historically struggled with issues of body image, often marginalizing those who do not conform to conventional standards of beauty. As someone who champions initiatives that embrace diverse expressions of the body, Steffey's influence can catalyze a shift towards a more inclusive environment. This is particularly pertinent when considering the work highlighted in Book review: Gavin Larsen and Gene Schiavone’s ‘Infinite Steps: Thirty-three Dancers and Their Lives in Ballet’, which explores the lives of dancers and the myriad experiences that shape their journeys. By embracing varied narratives, we can cultivate a richer tapestry of dance that celebrates individuality rather than conformity.
As we look ahead, the question remains: how will Steffey's leadership redefine the path for Dance/NYC and influence the broader dance landscape? Given her track record, one can anticipate innovative programming that not only showcases artistic talent but also prioritizes the well-being and empowerment of artists and audiences alike. This evolution can potentially inspire a new generation of dancers and creators who value self-expression and body positivity, leading to a more diverse and inclusive future for the art form.
In a world where the arts play a crucial role in fostering connections and understanding, Steffey’s promotion is a beacon of hope for those who believe in the transformative power of dance. As we cheer for her success, let us also commit to supporting initiatives that advocate for equity and representation in the arts, ensuring that all voices are heard and celebrated on stage and beyond.
Dance/NYC is proud to announce the promotion of Monica Steffey to Director of Programming & Operations. Steffey previously served as the organization’s Operations Manager, where she played a central role in strengthening internal systems, supporting organizational workflows, and advancing cross-team coordination during a period of significant growth and transition.
Steffey is a Brooklyn-based leader and community organizer working at the intersection of creative practice and people-centered systems. Over the past decade, Steffey has developed and led artist-driven initiatives across the U.S. and internationally, grounded in embodiment, equity, and collective sustainability. In 2020, Steffey founded Wet Hairy Women, an art activist collective exploring bodily autonomy, gender, and choice through dance and art-making. Through projects such as No Shave Wovember, Steffey has worked with more than 200 women and allies and produced over a dozen original works, including UNTAMED, an evening-length immersive dance theater production.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Steffey led citywide COVID-19 response work within New York City Health + Hospitals’ Test & Trace (T2) Program, helping scale operations from 100 to more than 500 staff while overseeing teams across New York City. This experience, alongside years of building creative projects from the ground up, informed Steffey’s leadership approach, rooted in adaptability, care, and clear systems of support. At Dance/NYC, Steffey has contributed to strengthening organizational infrastructure, guiding operational strategy, and cultivating a culture of transparency and trust. Steffey is excited to continue growing and to serve as Director of Programming & Operations at Dance/NYC, supporting the organization’s mission through people-centered systems and collaborative leadership.
“Dance has always been a site of advocacy for me, both on and off the stage,” said Steffey. “It is essential work that helps us process, resist, and stay connected in challenging times. I’m excited to continue growing at Dance/NYC—an organization that has shaped my leadership and my belief in what’s possible—and to support the dance field in building more just and sustainable futures.”
“Monica’s promotion reflects both her deep commitment to Dance/NYC and her readiness to lead at this level,” says Raquel Du Toit, Executive Director of Dance/NYC. “She brings strategic clarity, operational strength, and a values-driven approach to her work. I have full confidence in her leadership, and am excited for what this next chapter will make possible for our organization and the dance community we serve.”
This appointment also marks an important milestone in Dance/NYC’s organizational evolution. Steffey’s promotion completes Dance/NYC’s intended leadership framework as outlined in its Five-Year Strategic Plan announced last October. The Director of Programming & Operations role serves as a key leadership partner, supporting organizational stability, programmatic cohesion, and long-term sustainability as Dance/NYC advances its mission in service of the metropolitan New York City dance community.
Visit https://www.dance.nyc/ to learn more.
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