Student Spotlight: Ava Azzaretto, Scholar Artist
Congratulations to LIHSA Senior Ava Azzaretto of Deer Park High School for being named a Long Island Arts Alliance Scholar Artist.
Now in her second year at LIHSA, Ava is studying dance under L’aura Bagdziunas and Natalie L’Etoile. She shares, “My teachers Ms. Laura and Ms. L’Etoile are big inspirations for me. They are incredible role models and their determination to see their students succeed means everything to me. My teachers do an incredible job at showing that a positive mindset is half the battle. I am also inspired by my teachers at my home studio, Travis Bertell and Chad Eastman. They are constantly thinking outside the box. I truly admire their passion and their willingness to break away from the norm and portray dance in an even more creative way.”
Scholar-Artist Awards recognize high school seniors in Nassau and Suffolk counties who combine high academic achievement with artistic excellence. Ava feels that receiving the Scholar Artist Award was an honor in recognition of her hard work. “Knowing that my art has the ability to encourage others to deeply feel emotions or even inspire them creatively is the biggest gift.”
One of the highlights of Ava’s time at LIHSA is the other students. “I have made lifelong friends here and knowing that everyone is rooting for each other to succeed makes the experience that much more enjoyable. I have also met incredible people in other departments which has opened my eyes to different types of art forms and career paths.”
After graduating from LIHSA, Ava plans to study dance in college and hopes to become a professional dancer in some capacity: dancing backup, touring, or in a company.
Ava shared, “Huge shoutout to all the other faculty members who make LIHSA the incredible place it is! They are some of the kindest people I have ever met and their involvement and support for the dance department is hugely appreciated!”
Thank you for all the talent, focus, and kindness you bring to LIHSA everyday, Ava. And congratulations on your honor!
