Omar Ingram Appointed as Executive Director of IABD to Drive Growth and Inclusion

Omar Ingram Elevates Leadership as Executive Director of IABD

The International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) has announced a significant change in its leadership. Effective March 1, 2025, Omar Ingram will step into the role of Executive Director, a position that holds immense responsibility and potential for fostering growth within the organization. He takes over from Dr. Natasha Moreland Spears, the Co-Executive Director, who will be leaving her position after a successful tenure.

Since joining IABD in 2017, Ingram has played a crucial role in its operations. Initially starting as the Special Assistant of Programs, he quickly progressed to Programs Director before becoming Co-Executive Director in 2022. His journey reflects a deep commitment to the arts and the community, aiming to empower diverse voices and share the rich heritage of Black dance.

Under Ingram's leadership, IABD has made significant strides in expanding its arts programming, including the widely celebrated annual conference and festival. He has been instrumental in initiatives such as the Comprehensive Organizational Health Initiative, referred to as COHI | MOVE, and The Equity Project, which aims to amplify the representation of Black dancers in ballet. His diverse roles also include serving as board chair for the Performing Arts Alliance and being an active member of various artistic advisory boards, signaling his extensive engagement in the arts community.

Ingram's promotion comes as part of IABD's transition to a single executive director model. Ayisha Morgan-Lee, EdD, and Founder of Hill Dance Academy Theatre stated, “I am confident that Omar Ingram will provide the leadership needed to continue to move IABD forward.” With this confidence, Ingram is expected to uphold and expand the organization's mission of preserving and promoting dance by individuals of African ancestry, while also creating more opportunities for artists associated with IABD.

As Dr. Natasha Moreland Spears departs, she reflects on her impactful tenure within the organization. During her time, Dr. Spears spearheaded strategic initiatives that contributed to the organization's growth, focusing on development, membership, and marketing communications. Her hard work culminated in securing multi-year funding, bolstering financial resources that enable IABD to thrive. She expressed appreciation for the collaborative spirit shared with IABD's members and emphasized that serving this iconic organization has been a profoundly transformative experience.

Ingram has emphasized the importance of Black dance as an integral segment of American culture. “Black Dance is American art!” he asserts, highlighting the necessity of advocacy and alliance for the larger Black dance community. IABD has championed diversity, creativity, and equity long before they became prominent discussions. With Ingram at the helm, the organization is set to further recognize its historical significance while pushing forward into a future that celebrates diversity in performance and inclusivity in art.

Throughout his career, Ingram has collaborated closely with cultural luminaries such as Debbie Allen, George Faison, and Phylicia Rashad, all of whom have significantly influenced the arts landscape. His dedication is not limited to his roles within IABD; he has contributed nationally as a consultant and facilitator in various capacities, benefiting the nonprofit sector as a whole.

The International Association of Blacks in Dance, which began its journey in 1991, serves as a vital network for Black dance artists, educators, and advocates. The organization's recognition, including receiving a National Medal of Arts from President Joe Biden, underscores its significant role in developing the arts landscape and addressing the pertinent issues impacting the Black dance community.

As the IABD moves forward under Omar Ingram’s stewardship, the association is poised to elevate its mission of promoting creativity and artistry while fostering an environment of inclusion and equity. The future looks promising as they aim to reconcile the history with modern narratives, paving the way for the next generation of artists inspired by the rich legacy of Black dance.

For more information about the International Association of Blacks in Dance, visit their official website.