What Woodlawn gave me, at a very young age, was the belief that I could truly accomplish anything if I was willing to put in the work. My courage, commitment, passion and tenacity were deepened there by instructors who pushed me beyond my comfort zone and were always there with unwavering support. After graduating from Chicago Academy for the Arts, I moved to San Francisco to begin my professional dance career with Alonzo King LINES Ballet, then made the decision to return to Chicago to study mass communications. I am so grateful to Woodlawn for being my second home through many important moments and for being my safe haven as I learned about myself as an artist.

Angelina Perino

2019