Rachel Schneider returned in October 2024 to serve as COCA’s Pre-Professional Division Manager. She now works with more than 115 students across five programs, a major shift from her days as a student when COCAdance was the only company.
“COCA raised me. […] the program, the people, the art in this building,” said Rachel. “It felt only natural at this point in my career to be back here.”
Rachel first came to COCA at the age of nine for after-school classes. Lee Nolting, beloved COCA Teaching Artist and founding Artistic Director of COCAdance, recognized her potential and invited her to dance in the Pre-Professional Division. Rachel trained at COCA until 2008, and often returned to perform in alumni shows and assist with summer camps.
During Rachel’s time at COCA, the Pre-Professional Division was managed collectively by Indigo Sams, Lee Nolting, and Maria Majors. Today, Rachel is proud to be working under Indigo’s leadership and serving on the board of STL Rhythm Collaborative under Maria.
“While nobody could be who Ms. Lee was, I strive to bring her nurturing spirit to our students and to the program,” said Rachel. “I am hoping to continue her legacy in how she supported students wholeheartedly.”
Rachel’s favorite student memory was the bow line at the end of each COCAdance performance. Ms. Lee would dance across the stage to September by Earth, Wind & Fire.
“It was always such a moment of celebration,” Rachel said. “I always looked forward to it.”
One piece of advice that stuck with her came from former COCA Teaching Artist Alicia Graf Mack during rehearsals: “Dig deeper.”
“I realized that I could keep going, and that I had more to share in my dancing, but it also applies to so many other aspects of my life to this day,” said Rachel.
After her training at COCA, Rachel studied dance in the Conservatory at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. She went on to dance with Deeply Rooted Dance Theater in Chicago.
After dancing with Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, Rachel felt her performance goals had been exceeded. She spent the rest of her 13 years in Chicago finding ways to apply her creative background in corporate settings.
Now, back at COCA and on the educator side, she shares her advice with students.
“There may not always be a perfect choice, but whatever choice you make is the perfect one. Make whatever choice you made work, which requires intentionality, to help you succeed,” said Rachel.
More Images of Rachel at COCA:
