Our Founder - Dr. Joyce Harrigan
Dr. Harrigan is an educator, a mentor, and creative visionary whose mission is to break through the isolation of life, revive the inner Spirit, and renew self-esteem by uniting individuals from the inside out.
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As founder, executive, and artistic director of the Harrigan Educational & Cultural Center, Inc., Dr. Joyce Harrigan is a celebrated choreographer and originator of Rhythmic Dance. She is an Audelco Award Nominee and the recipient of 15 awards and citations, which include two proclamations from the State of New York that designated days in her honor. She is amongst the first to hold a doctorate in Sacred Artistry.
Founded and grew a local dance company into a regional arts education program that serves the tri-state area. Established a revered dance instruction and repertory organization for students aged four through senior citizen. As a master teacher and lead choreographer, maintain ownership of the creative vision and direction of stage productions and summer intensives. Orchestrate the functions of instructors, musicians, and administrative staff.
·Artistic Director: Conceive, develop, and execute the program for two major productions per season and annual tours, which have included The Apollo, Lehman Stages, Symphony Space, and Aaron Davis Hall as well churches and performing arts arenas.
·Public Speaker and Facilitator: Addressed executive directors, founders, and academic communities at theatrical workshops, conferences, foundations, and universities.
Social Impact: 90% of students attend and complete college. 80% have been accepted into the colleges and universities of their choice.
Nominations, Citations & Awards
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Westchester County Board of Legislators, Lyndon Williams, November 6, 2019
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Office of the County Executive Westchester County, New York, George Latimer, and County Executive May 31, 2019
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New York State Proclamation declaring June 3, 2019 as "Harrigan Educational & Cultural Center Day"
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Office of the City Council President City of Yonkers, by Council President Liam L. McLaughlin
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New York State Assembly Citation
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New York State Serving Citations
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The State of New York Proclamation Declaring March 27, 2014 "Dr. Joyce Harrigan Day", City of Yonkers
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Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition by Congressman Elliot L. Engel
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Westchester County Board of Legislators Proclamation
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Office of the Major of Yonkers Proclamation, Mike Spano, Mayor
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Mount Vernon Public Library Foundation Award
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The State of New York Proclamation Declaring March 13, 2011 as "Joyce Harrigan Day"
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Office of the Mayor of Mount Vernon Proclamation, Clinton Young Mayor City of Mount Vernon
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New York State Assembly Citations by State Senator Ruth Hassell Thompson 2010
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Audelco Award Nominee for Choreography