How do you build a community-based organization on New York's Upper West Side into a nationally recognized cultural institution? You might ask Ballet Hispanico Executive Director Verdery Roosevelt, who, since 1978, has helped connect that organization with internationally renowned choreographers and designers; purchase, build, and renovate a permanent headquarters; and serve over 25,000 students around the country each year. She'd likely mention the vision and vital partnership of Artistic Director Tina Ramirez, and the essential participation of a thousand friends, board members, donors, volunteers, colleagues, staff members, and civic leaders. But more than likely, she'd just shrug her shoulders, smile at the question, and eagerly get back to work.

Four Questions for Verdery

In one sentence, describe what you do...
"I guide the efforts of a dedicated staff as we translate the vision of an extraordinary Artistic Director, Tina Ramirez, into the realities of performance, training, and education programs that celebrate contemporary Hispanic culture."

What is the most rewarding part of your professional work?
"It's always a thrill, when the curtain goes up on a performance by the company or students or public school kids, to see the artistic development, personal growth and sheer joy of dancing on stage. I'm very proud of my own role in making that happen."

What is the most challenging?
"The need to continually expand the pool of resources—human, financial and physical—that we need to keep up with the growth of our institution."

How does your graduate business training inform how you work?
"The graduate program provided the foundation for so many of the responsibilities that I've handled over the years, from marketing and accounting to strategic planning. And it just happens that I got my job through a recommendation from one of the best seminar speakers!"

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