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Lee Nolting Students First Award

Lee Nolting in the dance studio with student

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 2026 Lee Nolting Students First Award will be open July 17–August 17, 2026.

Nominations

Lee Nolting Students First Award Nomination Form 2026

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Nominee Information

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How has the nominee consistently put students first?(Required)

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Past Recipients

2022 | Susan Kopp

2023 | Antonio Douthit-Boyd

2024 | Gina Bon-Perez

2025 | Carrie Fernandez