Dominique Palmer, a Lecturer in the Department of Theatre and Dance, is the recipient of Troy University’s 2021 Ingalls Award for Excellence in Classroom Teaching.

Palmer received the award during the University’s annual Honors Convocation held Monday night in the Claudia Crosby Theater on the Troy Campus.

The Ingalls Award is given annually to the teacher on the Troy Campus who has “most diligently, effectively and cheerfully conducted his or her classes during the current academic year.” Students nominate faculty members for the award, and a committee of students and faculty advisors selects the recipient. The award consists of a statue of Socrates, a plaque and a check for $1,000.

“I am so very honored and greatly humbled to have received such a prestigious award,” Palmer said. “I am grateful to be a part of Troy University as I have had the opportunity to support, nurture, and help facilitate the future success of its students. Since my arrival in 2014, I have been surrounded by the highest caliber of young artists, and it has been a joy to see and encourage their growth each day. To be recognized in this way is overwhelming, as I truly and simply just love what I do.”

A native of Washington D.C., Palmer began her ballet training with Ballet Russe premiere danseur Oleg Tupine and his wife Tania Rousseau, after receiving a full-time scholarship at age of 14. She moved to New York City where she continued her studies at the Joffrey Ballet School, ultimately joining the Joffrey II Dancers, under the direction of Sally Brayley Bliss, and The Joffrey Ballet, under the direction of Robert Joffrey. While with The Joffrey Ballet, Palmer danced in works choreographed by Paul Taylor, Frederick Ashton, Agnes DeMille, Mark Morris, Jiri Kylian, John Cranko, Pilobolus, and resident choreographer Gerald Arpino.

In 1987, Palmer was invited to join the newly founded Miami City Ballet. During this time, her repertoire included roles in George Balanchine’s “Apollo,” “Serenade,” “Square Dance,” “Scotch Symphony,” “Jewels,” and “Divertimento #15.”

Prior to joining the TROY faculty, Palmer previously served as a faculty member of The Miami Conservatory and The New World School of the Arts in Miami, Florida and The Virginia School of the Arts and Randolph College in Lynchburg, Virginia.