Lee Nolting Students First Award

The Lee Nolting Students First Award, created in honor of former COCA Teaching Artist and founding Artistic Director of COCAdance Lee Nolting, recognizes COCA Teaching Artists who go above and beyond for COCA students. 

The honoree is selected by a community committee of arts advocates and is recognized at FLAME°, COCA’s annual appreciation event for members of the Richard Baron Leadership Circle.   

COCA Teaching Artist Susan Kopp was the recipient of the inaugural Lee Nolting Students First Award.

Nominations for the 2025 Lee Nolting Students First Award will be open September 8–October 13, 2025.