From Calypsos to Careers: Post Dance Life of the Texas State University Strutters Alumnae

Abstract

The Texas State University Strutters dance team was established in the 1960s and has since produced over three thousand alumnae. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the Strutters organization on their alumnae in their careers, social relationships, and self-identities. I conducted fifteen in-depth interviews with Strutter alumnae who represented the program from the beginning to the present. I analyzed the interview data to understand the lasting impact the Strutters experience had on their alumnae. Generally, the Strutters experience led to positive career, self-identity, and social characteristics. The Texas State Strutters organization has a positive influence on many aspects of a Strutter alumna`s life.