About

 

scholarship

Teachers are role models who inspire, and education has a ripple effect. The Judith Leibowitz Scholarship (JLSF) is offered to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color who would like to earn an Alexander Technique teaching certification.

The JLSF sees AT in the 21st century as an anti-racist practice. We support the continuous efforts to unveil racism and any forms of oppression in the work, the writings and the institutions of the Technique. This scholarship was conceived to empower BIPOC, who want to train to become AT teachers and expand the AT teaching community. 

The JLSF provides tuition support for BIPOC awardees training as teachers of the Alexander Technique in AmSAT teacher certification programs. We currently support teacher trainees in Albuquerque, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Minneapolis. Read more about them here.

History

Judith “Judy” Leibowitz founded the American Center for the Alexander Technique in 1964 and established the Technique as an integral part of actor training at The Juilliard School. Despite the partial paralysis she developed after suffering from polio as a child, she believed deeply in the power of change and long-term benefits of practicing AT. Those fortunate enough to study with her remember her as a “sculptor of bodies.” Her lifetime commitment to expanding the Alexander teaching community is honored by this scholarship’s pursuit to bring forth the next generation of AT teachers. 

Donate $50 or more here and receive a link to the celebratory video REMEMBERING JUDY.

technique

The Alexander Technique helps people integrate non-habitual approaches to moving, breathing, and thinking. AT practice can support healing the effects of trauma, including the trauma of systemic racism. Many experience greater confidence, strength, and enhanced skills in all areas of their lives.

The Alexander Technique is in constant evolution, as it is applied by individuals and communities striving to actualize their potential.

 
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The Judith Leibowitz Scholarship Fund provides scholarship assistance for people of color to train as Alexander Technique teachers with the goal of expanding the Technique into more diverse communities.

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Scholarship Committee

The Scholarship Committee is dedicated to the Fund’s mission. We are motivated to find innovative approaches that broaden the reach and scope of this teaching community.

The original texts of F.M. Alexander (1869-1955) contain racist remarks and theories. We denounce these statements and racist scientific inaccuracies.

Thank you to past committee members: Sandra Bain Cushman, Fabio Tavares, Kyra Miller, Ian Jorgensen, Renee Santo Schneider, Karl Snider, and Jessica Wolf.

Since forming in 2019, all committee members are teachers of the Technique:

 
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Rebecca Tuffey

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Laura Parker

Rachel Bernsen

Becky Sandler

Aik Hooi Lee

Melissa Brown

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Emily Rodriguez

 
Part of what I look forward to in creating the Judith Leibowitz Scholarship Fund is providing opportunities for the Alexander Technique itself to transform. We can start re-thinking HOW we are currently thinking.
— Pyeng Threadgill, Artist & Voice/Movement Teacher - 2007 Graduate
 
 
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