Page 71 - Senior Link Magazine Summer 2020- Online Magazine

but the person. Her genuine interest, how much of an impact she has had cultural vibrancy of West Texas,
encouragement, and support of her on my life. She is one of the strongest inspiring new levels of imagination and
students’ passions, on and off the stage, women I know, and I admire her every memories for generations.
make her mark on our lives indelible. “ day. Her spirit is one-of-a-kind and
- Kristi Schultz O’Brien should be emulated by all teachers. Suzanne instilled in Ballet Lubbock a
I hope Lubbock realizes how much culture of creative, ambitious thinking.
they owe to this incredible woman; I She taught us that excellence is both
“Her advice still serves me well to this know I do. Ballet is here in Lubbock an expectation and an ever-advancing
day! I am so honored that I had the because of Suzanne Aker. That is not an target – yet a target we are more than
wonderful experience of working with understatement. All of us who teach, capable of hitting. We thank Suzanne
her at a very formative time in my life. perform, and choreograph owe her so for challenging us, for motivating us,
She is terrifically talented, dedicated, much because she began it all in West and for supporting us. From a one-
and necessary in the Arts Community in Texas. “ studio building on 42nd and Boston in
Lubbock and West Texas.” - Yvonne Racz Key, Ballet Lubbock 1969, to an organization that impacts
- Jennifer Smith Artistic Director 600 students on a weekly basis and is
about to move into The Buddy Holly
Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences,
“She was so kind and nurturing to all Suzanne has a legacy of thousands of Suzanne has ensured that Ballet
of us. You never really appreciate how students who not only have learned the Lubbock not only survives in West
hard someone works and all that they technique of dance, but also the value of Texas, but thrives.
do for you until you grow older. I can’t creativity, discipline, and commitment.
imagine all the hurdles Suzanne had to Her students embrace the reward of The mission of Ballet Lubbock is to
jump to establish ballet in Lubbock as a focused passion and the wonder of change lives. Suzanne has certainly
a serious art form. I realize how much creating for and with their community. changed ours.
Suzanne did for all of us dancers and Suzanne has forever enhanced the

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Lubbock Senior Link 71