Jacey Gailliard

2022 Dance Scholarship Recipient

Jacey, a dedicated ballet dancer, has been immersed in the world of dance since the age of 4. Having attended the Metropolitan Ballet Academy in Pennsylvania for 11 years, she eagerly embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. Jacey's passion for ballet was ignited early on, and her teachers consistently motivated her to push herself further. Each class she took became a chance to engage in something she truly loved. Jacey participated in the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), finding joy in being on stage even if she didn't receive placement. At the age of 12, she firmly committed herself to becoming a professional ballet dancer, dedicating her time and energy to training and willingly sacrificing social activities for the dance studio, her personal happy place.

In 2019, Jacey auditioned for the year-round program at the San Francisco Ballet (SFB) and was overjoyed when accepted. However, just one month into the school year, she experienced a major ankle injury, sidelining her for five months. Though devastated at first, she learned a valuable lesson in resilience and toughness. Jacey's father reminded her that this setback was a setup for future success. Despite being unable to dance, she utilized online resources such as videos and tutorials to stay in shape. Jacey excelled in her studies and returned to SFB with a determined mindset, recognizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and self-care. Through grueling physical therapy, she witnessed her progress and grew stronger both physically and mentally.

Jacey's injury taught her the value of slowing down, focusing on herself, and knowing when to rest. She developed a deeper understanding of her own strengths and learned to speak up when not feeling her best. Proud of her dancing and passionate about sharing it, Jacey believes that everyone possesses a gift, and hers is dance.