Welcome to the American College Dance Association

Welcome! Since our founding in 1973, the American College Dance Association (ACDA) has been a home for college and university dance programs across the world—a place where students, faculty, and artists come together to celebrate, share, and deepen their commitment to the art of dance.
At ACDA, we believe in the power of movement to build community, spark creativity, and inspire change. Our programs bring dancers from diverse backgrounds together in an environment that fosters growth, experimentation, and connection.
Our Legacy
For over 50 years, ACDA has upheld a commitment to excellence in dance education in higher education. We honor the visionary educators and artists who built this organization with a belief in dance as both a rigorous discipline and a vital means of expression. Their legacy lives on in every conference, festival, every performance, every class, and every conversation.
Our Community
Our members include faculty, students, independent artists, scholars, and institutions from across the country. Through conferences, performances, classes, and scholarly exchange, we support and uplift each other as we explore the ever-evolving landscape of dance in higher education.
ACDA’s Signature Programs
– Regional Conferences
– National College Dance Festival
– Screendance
– At-Large Virtual Adjudication
– Peer Response Program
– Student Engagement Program
– Jacob’s Pillow Summer Performance Partnership
Whether you’re new to ACDA or a longtime participant, we invite you to explore our programs, connect with your region, and find inspiration in the vibrant community we’ve built together. Welcome to ACDA!