Sheela Ramanath, MFA, to Receive Del Kieffner Award at 17th Annual Invitational at Carnegie Hall

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sheela Ramanath, MFA, to Receive Del Kieffner Award at 17th Annual Invitational at Carnegie Hall

New York, NY - December 12, 2025
Performing Arts Educators (PAE), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, proudly announces Sheela Ramanath, MFA, Director of Kalavaridhi Center for Performing Arts LLC, as the recipient of the 19th Annual Del Kieffner Award. The honor will be presented during the matinee showcase of the 17th Annual Invitational at Carnegie Hall's Isaac Stern Auditorium on January 18, 2026.

Established in 2007, the Del Kieffner Award celebrates directors who embody selfless mentorship and extraordinary commitment to young artists. Sheela's selection coincides with Kalavaridhi's 25th anniversary of fostering dance education and community.
"Sheela's passion for nurturing dancers and preserving cultural heritage reflects the very spirit of Del Kieffner," said Carrie Straub, PhD, PAE. "Her leadership inspires generations, and we are thrilled to celebrate her on Carnegie Hall's iconic stage."

Sheela Ramanath, MFA, shared:
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude for this huge recognition. This could not have come at a better time as we usher into our 25th year of imparting dance education and building a strong community of dancers. Working with PAE has been the most satisfying and rewarding experience for me as an artist. Let us continue to illuminate many lives!"
The January 18 matinee will feature pre-professional ensembles in a non-competitive celebration of dance, music, and culture. Spots remain limited; interested directors may reserve via https://www.performingartseducators.org/.

Carrie Straub of Performing Arts Educators, Palm City Post Office, 1257 SW Martin Hwy, Palm City, FL 34990-9998

Performing Arts Educators (PAE) is a passionate non-profit organization headquartered in Palm City, Florida, committed to nurturing pre-professional performing arts talent and fostering arts education in Martin County and beyond. Our mission is to provide exceptional performance opportunities at prestigious venues in supportive, non-competitive settings, helping young artists build confidence, gain inspiration, and share their talents with appreciative audiences.
At PAE, we believe in making world-class experiences accessible to performers of moderate means by bringing together qualified groups for unforgettable events. Highlights include international tours to iconic locations like Tuscany and Lisbon, as well as annual invitational performances at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall. These opportunities create lifelong memories and ignite a deeper passion for the arts.
Locally, PAE proudly celebrates Martin County's vibrant performing arts community. We partner with organizations like the Stuart Sunrise Rotary Club to produce free, family-friendly events that showcase top youth talent. Our inaugural Palm City Patio Sessions is a perfect example-a relaxed outdoor festival featuring live music, dance performances (including the South Fork dance band and Florida Dance & Arts Academy), kids' games, and community activities under the lights.
As advocates for arts education, we honor the dedicated teachers who inspire students daily and work to make the arts inclusive and engaging for all ages. Whether through high-profile performances, community nights, or volunteer opportunities for teens, PAE strives to strengthen the local arts scene and build lasting connections.
Join us in supporting the next generation of performers! Visit our events, volunteer, or learn more about upcoming opportunities. Performing Arts Educators-empowering youth through the power of the performing arts.

This release was published on openPR.