Maria Tong explores the art of African dance

By Ashley Wiggin

SoN staff member Maria Tong will spend her holidays on a trip to West Africa to study African dance and drumming. For three weeks, Maria and six other dancers will learn African dancing and drumming techniques from local dancers and musicians. 

Through a local husband-wife team called “One World Dance,” Maria will travel to Guinea, well known for its dance and music, to explore new dance and drumming techniques and take some side trips through the country to experience African culture.

Maria has taken many dance classes over the years, but this will be one of her first experiences with African dance and drumming. “I love all kinds of music, and I love being physical, so dance is a natural thing for me to be interested in,” she said. “I do not consider myself ‘a natural,’ but the more I have done dance, the less self-conscious I have become.”

The culture of Guinea is especially interesting to Maria, who has traveled to China, Russia and Finland in the past. “I I feel extremely privileged to have this opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture,” she said. “A big part of my interest is to get a sense of what life there is like and what things could or are improving in the lives of people living there.”

A School of Nursing staff member since 1989, Maria works in Academic Services as the program coordinator for degree information, a position that supports Academic Services’ recruitment and admissions efforts. Additionally, she is the staff support for the BSN coordinating committee. She enjoys the versatility of her role, which allows her to interact with applicants, students and faculty.

Originally from southeastern Ohio, Maria now lives near Green Lake with her two cats. She also enjoys reading, gardening and cooking.

For more on One World Dance, see: http://www.oneworlddance.com/