Grace Dougherty

Grace Dougherty is a dancer, performer, choreographer, teacher, and advocate. She was born and raised in Gainesville, Georgia. She began her training at The Dance Company. She now continues her training as an undergraduate at Brenau University. Grace is currently seeking her BFA in Dance, and she is attending on a talent-based scholarship and an academic scholarship. Grace is expected to graduate from Brenau University in 2028. She has trained in styles such as Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and Modern, and within the styles she trained with Dr. Madia Cooper-Ashirifi, George Wilson-Berry, Jessica Lynch-Oliver, Denise Kiser, Brittany Benson, Pytron Parker, and Logan Kiser. She has performed in student choreographer works by Emily Alonso, Mallary Bales, Grace Darden, Lily Hart, Sarah Macomber, Jessica Goodwin, and Zoe Otto, and faculty works by George Wilson-Berry and Jessica Lynch-Oliver. She has also worked with choreographers Francine Ott, Cammi Nevarez, Chris Bloom, and Xavier Lewis. Her performances have allowed her to perform in Pearce Auditorium at Brenau University, The Venue, Riverside Military Academy, Mule Camp, and Disney World. Dougherty has a passion for teaching and has taught students in Ballet, Tap, and Jazz.

I AM INSPIRED BY  artists who take risks. Taking a risk can be one of the scariest choices, yet it always leads to something new. The more risks taken by artists, the more boundaries broken, and the more change occurs. I’m inspired by work that challenges expectations and embraces the unknown, because it reflects a willingness to be vulnerable and honest. In my artistry, I strive to take risks that push me beyond comfort, allowing me to discover new perspectives that I would not have found otherwise.

I FIND PURPOSE IN growth. Growth fuels me every day and pushes me to better myself. I never want to be the same person or artist I was the day before. This mindset drives my commitment to training, creativity, and self-reflection, both in and outside of the studio. I view every challenge and new experience as an opportunity to evolve.

WHAT MAKES ME COME ALIVE is connection. Connection is one of the most beautiful things people are able to experience. It’s part of the reason I love dance so much; dance allows for connection without words. Whether it is connecting with an audience, fellow dancers, or the intention behind the movement, those moments create a sense of purpose and happiness that is unmatched. It is in those connections that I feel the most present, expressive, and aligned with who I am as an artist.

Instagram: @_grace_dougherty_