Membership Updates - January 2026 (Copy)
Greetings to our valued LTRI community!
Wherever you are within the world, I hope you are finding ways to navigate with self and other(s) towards freedom, strength, and courage. We are reaching out to share important information and opportunities on the horizon. See below for upcoming events.
The work and ongoing growth of Lessac Kinesensics is more vital than ever, for, to quote Arthur, “A voice that is free, that feels its inherent right to speak, will have no fear of calling out, whenever and wherever it is needed.” Take good care, and be sure you join us at an upcoming event so we get to share space together soon!
Dear valued members of the LTRI,
Courtney “wheel walking” on a snow-filled, slippery walk.
Today as I was enjoying a snow-filled afternoon walk on the mostly cleared but slippery streets of my neighborhood, my body’s wisdom tapped into a powerful familiar event. As I was doing my best to stay upright and avoid a tumble (even in my winter boots!), I heard the countless whispers of all of my dear teachers and mentors reminding me to simply tap into my “wheel walking”. I remembered Barry Kurr, and the teacher within, encouraging me to to “roll through” my feet like gliders, and I felt Crystal Robbins presence reminding me to allow my pelvis to float right atop of my rolling feet, keeping that sense of a stable, moving balance. All the while, when I did experience slight “slips” or “wobbles”, I heard Nancy Krebs radiantly reminding me to “make it part of the dance.” My walk was transformed into my own personal act of artistry and enjoyment! Also, I didn’t fall!!
This sharing is a reminder of the simple but powerful ways Lessac Kinesensics is there to support, enrich, and guide us all through our daily lives, in times of profound struggle and times of success.
If you’d like to refresh your Lessac Kinesensic practice to help support and enrich all you do, then we hope you’ll join us at one of our many upcoming events in 2026. We have a full calendar lined up (below) and hope to see you soon!
With Respect,
Courtney
Members’ Bauhaus
SUNDAY, FEBRUARy 15, 2026
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (ET)
Grab a cup of coffee, tea or your favorite beverage, and join your fellow members for a chance to share ideas, explorations, engage in general discussions and problem solving related to the application and teaching of Kinesensics. A Members Bauhaus is an opportunity to commune in a casual and supportive space. No registration is required. All members are welcome. The Zoom meeting link will be sent to all current members via email, the Members Google Group and the Members Facebook Group.
Add to Google Calendar
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2026
Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM ET
(Check your local time here)
Evening Session: 6:00 – 8:30 PM ET
(Check your local time here)
Join us for important updates from the LTRI Leadership Team. We’ve listened to our membership, we’ve explored sustainable and accessible options, and will have some BIG NEWS TO SHARE!! *Spoiler Alert - we will be gathering in 2026 with an in-person conference event!
This year we’ll offer our Annual Meeting at two separate times to accommodate our diverse global membership. Members are welcome to attend one or both sessions. No RSVP Required. Zoom links will be sent to all current members 24-hours before the meeting.
Add to Google Calendar
Lessac 90-Minute Online Workshops
VOICE AND BODY AWARENESS
Saturday, February 7
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (ET)
and/or
Friday, February 20
6:00 - 7:00 PM (ET)
Join Lessac Certified Trainers throughout the globe for a series of 90-minute workshops in Lessac Kinesensic BodyVoice Training. Choose from various options and fee levels to explore the work in the comfort of your own home. These workshops are ideal for anyone curious about the work, or anyone looking for creative ways to embody more dynamic self-awareness.
New LTRI Publication: "Sensing Speech"
The Lessac Training and Research Institute is thrilled to announce the release of "Sensing Speech: A How-to Manual for Those Wishing to Speak General American English Easily, Articulately and Expressively through a Feeling-based Process," a new book by Jonghee Shadix and Nancy Krebs.
"Sensing Speech" is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble Booksellers and Apple Books
Not a member? Become a member or renew today.
Remembering Master Teacher Dick Cuyler
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dick Cuyler, a beloved Lessac Master Teacher and a true pioneer of our work. Dick passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, peacefully and with his dear Saundra by his side.
Remembering Master Teacher Dick Cuyler
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard “Dick” Cuyler, a beloved Lessac Master Teacher and a true pioneer of our work. Dick passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, peacefully and with his dear Saundra by his side. He was 93 years-young.
Arthur Lessac (left) and Dick Cuyler (right) teaching at SUNY Binghamton circa. 1970s
Dick was a cornerstone of the Lessac Institute, a member of the "original team" who worked directly with Arthur and Sue Ann to develop and disseminate Lessac Kinesensics. His dedication and expertise were invaluable to our community.
Dick's background was as rich and diverse as his talent. He held a BA in English Literature from Oberlin College, an MA in Directing from Bennington College, and a degree in Voice and Speech from Columbia University Teachers College. He was a true polymath of the performing arts.
Dick Cuyler, clowning around (2000s)
His theatrical training included studies with luminaries such as Uta Hagen, Gene Frankel, and Robert Lewis, and he was an observer at the Actors Studio. Beyond acting and voice, Dick possessed a remarkable array of physical performance skills, including mime, tumbling, clown work, juggling, and unarmed combat. He was a member of Actors Equity, SAG-AFTRA, and the International Jugglers Association, alongside his membership in the Lessac Institute.
Dick's teaching career was extensive and impactful. He shaped the lives of countless students at Skidmore College, where he served as department chair, and at Binghamton University, where he taught for 20 years. He also shared his knowledge through Lessac intensives at numerous institutions, including the University of Minnesota Duluth, the University of Colorado Boulder, Central University in Pella, Iowa, and SUNY Fredonia. In his later years, he continued to teach at the Flat Rock Playhouse's Youth Theater and the Chautauqua Institution.
Dick's contributions to Lessac Kinesensics and performing arts as a whole are immeasurable. His legacy will live on through the countless students and colleagues he inspired.
He is survived by his loving wife, Saundra Cuyler, a valued member of the Lessac Institute. Our hearts go out to Saundra and all of Dick's family and friends during this difficult time.
We will share information regarding memorial services and tributes as it becomes available. Please join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Dick Cuyler.
With appreciation,
The LTRI
*Please share your memories of Dick in the comments below.
Learn more about Dick’s life and his contributions to the legacy of Lessac Kinesensics in his 2020 Interview with fellow Master Teacher Deb Kinghorn.
Membership Updates - December 2024
However you celebrate, I wish you a warm and radiant holiday greeting. I hope this season serves you well with what your mind/body most needs. Thank you to those that were able to join that Master Teacher Team for a good ‘ole fashion tune on December 7th. What a treasured tradition we have started! This is one of the many examples of intentional ways the LTRI seeks to expand, foster and connect to and through Lessac Kinesensics.
Please take a moment to digest and SHARE all of the wonderful happenings:
Warm Holiday greetings from your LTRI Leadership Team
Hello LTRI community,
However you celebrate, I wish you a warm and radiant holiday greeting. I hope this season serves you well with what your mind/body most needs. Thank you to those that were able to join that Master Teacher Team for a good ol’ fashioned tune-up December 7th. What a treasured tradition we have started! This is one of the many examples of intentional ways the LTRI seeks to expand, foster and connect to and through Lessac Kinesensics.
Please take a moment to digest and SHARE all of the wonderful happenings:
USA Summer Intensive returns to DePauw University!
The US Summer Intensive returns to DePauw University June 22 - July 18!
Join Master Teacher Facilitators Crystal Robbins and Nancy Krebs for 1, 2 or 4 full weeks.
Whether you are new to Kinesensics or looking to refresh your practice, there is an option that is right for you.
The deadline for early bird discounts and finicial assistance has been extended to January 15.
LTRI Gift MEMBERSHIPS
LTRI membership makes a unique and useful gift anytime of the year! Please consider purchasing a membership for someone in your life.
Gift a student, individual or professional level membership and your special someone will enjoy all of the full benefits of Lessac Membership.
Gift memberships are good for 12 months and can commence on your chosen date.
What happens after 12 months? You can opt to renew or, we will help your giftee renew at their chosen level.
KC STUDIOS IS BACK
Upcoming events:
Saturday, January 18th, 2025 - Kinesensic Connection Studio with Certified Trainer, Dana Smith. “Learning Tai Chi: A Buoyant Dance of Energies”
Sliding Fee - Pay What You Will
SAVE THE DATE - KINESENSIC CONNECTIONS MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS
Next Up:
Sunday, Feb. 9 - 11:00am (EST)
Kinesensic Connection Meeting - a chance for members to share short explorations and space for general discussion, problems solving, and communing. (Free membership event)
Sunday, March 23 - 11:00am (EST) Annual Membership Meeting
See more 2025 Membership Meeting dates here.
LTRI MISSION/VISION
After almost a year of seeking input, discussion, dreaming, and hard work, we share our newly aligned LTRI mission and vision. We hope this communicates the present and future goals of the LTRI to the world in grounding and inspiring ways!
The full Mission/Vision statement is below.
LTRI Mission/Vision
(Board approved 11/9/24)
LTRI Mission :
The Lessac Training and Research Institute cultivates regenerative bodymind connection, holistic self-expression and empathic communication by promoting, supporting and sustaining accessibility to Arthur Lessac’s Kinesensic BodyVoice Training worldwide.
The Organization’s Mission is to:
Foster self-care, well-being and bodyvoice expression through access to short trainings, workshops, private instruction, certification and lifelong learning in Lessac Kinesensic BodyVoice Training.
Expand availability to and application of Lessac Kinesensic BodyVoice Training through rigorous research and comprehensive, evidence based, holistic training opportunities across the world that facilitate the ongoing evolution of the work. We provide financial support to historically underrepresented individuals and individuals in need.
Connect through dynamic membership offerings, conferences, workshops, intensives and life-long learning. We embrace the complex interconnectedness of global systems, cultures, and perspectives, while honoring the idiosyncratic nature of the individual.
LTRI Vision.
Building a community of embodied creatives, thinkers, and communicators, whose personal uniquenesses are honored and celebrated through lifelong learning in Lessac Kinesensic BodyVoice Training.
We're Hiring!
Certified Trainers are invited!
Join us for a Q & A session
Wednesday 2nd March 7-7:30pm EST (USA)
Deb Kinghorn and Kellynn Meeks will be hosting two Q&A sessions on Zoom for all your questions about the Kinesensic Connections Studio facilitation opportunity. Read on to find out more…
*These are paid positions.
Meeting Topic: Kinesensic Connections Studio Q&A
A ZOOM Link will be sent to all Certified Trainer Members via email and posted in the Members Facebook Group.
We look forward to seeing you !
Kinesensic Connections Studio workshops introduce new people to the world of Kinesensics in short tasters but are equally valuable to current members as refreshers or different approaches to training. All qualified Certified Trainers who are current members are encouraged to submit for consideration to facilitate workshops.
Facilitators may choose from topics suggested by LTRI or they may submit ideas for consideration. All workshops must foreground Kinesensics training, but content and facilitation will be left to the individual trainer and based on interest and skills. All administration and marketing will be handled by the LTRI. Previous experience teaching on Zoom is preferred, but not required.
We have a very simple application for you to fill in by clicking the button below.
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED!
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION BY MONDAY MARCH 7, 2022
Thank you, Members!
In the midst of another surge of the pandemic and the busy start of the New Year, we find ourselves, perhaps, in another year of uncertainty. As we continue to navigate this “new normal,” our community has been a source of support for us and so many of our members and we want to take a moment to offer a heartfelt thank you to all members of the LTRI.
Hello Members!
In the midst of another surge of the pandemic and the busy start of the New Year, we find ourselves facing another period of uncertainty. As we continue to navigate this “new normal,” our community has been a source of support so many of our members. We have found new ways to come together and we want to take a moment to offer a heartfelt thank you to all members of the LTRI.
Whether you have recently joined the Kinesensics community or have been a member for a decade, we are so grateful for your presence, contributions, and commitment to the evolution of Kinesensics and the growth of our organization.
You are the bedrock of the LTRI.
Many of you have received renewal notices and have already renewed for 2022. Some of you will be ready to renew in the coming weeks.
This year is the first time we have had a rolling renewal process on our ‘new’ membership platform.
There have been a few bumps.
Thank you for sticking with us as our volunteer team works out the kinks! Below please find an FAQ list as well as a short video that may help if you h ave any questions about this renewal process.
We look forward to another year of collaboration and growth with you!
With all kinds of good NRG,
The Membership Team!
Membership-Team@LessacInstitute.org
Q: What’s a recurring plan?
A: Glad you asked! This new option allows you to ‘set it and forget it,’ so to speak. If you select a “recurring” plan, your membership will automatically renew each year. Pretty great, right?
Q: If I sign up for a recurring plan can I cancel and/or change my payment method?
A: Yes, you can cancel at any time and change your payment method before your next renewal date.
Q: Will I get notice before my recurring plan renews each year?
A: Youbetcha! You will receive notice 7 days before your plan automatically renews.
Q: What’s an “annual” plan
A: An annual plan requires your manual renewal every year. Everyone was on an “annual” plan for 2022.
Q: How do I renew my current annual plan if I don’t want a recurring plan?
A: Please log into your account after the expiration date and locate the “rejoin” link.
Q: Can I renew before my plan expires?
A: Yes and No. If you are on an annual plan and wish to remain on it for 2022, you can’t renew until after the expiration. However, you can sign up now with a new “Recurring Plan” (see video)
Q: I already renewed to a recurring plan and I still got a notice that my plan had expired! What gives?
A: Sorry about the confusion! If you moved from an annual plan to a new recurring plan this year, technically, your old annual plan did expire and you will receive notice. But don’t worry.
Q: I really have no idea when my plan expires. How do I check that?
A: Locate the “Log in” button on the lower right hand of the Lessac website. Log In and then click “My Account.” You can watch the short video above for how to access.
Q: I am an international member in an area where the currency exchange rate is prohibitive. How should I renew?
A: Please email membership-team@lessacinstitute.org for country codes.
Q: I am experiencing economic hardship but would like to remain a member. How should I renew?
A: Please email membership-team@lessacinstitute.org for options.
Q: I still have questions. What should I do?
A: We’ve got you. Please email membership-team@lessacinstitute.org if you still have questions.
Q: I am interested in helping to subsidize membership for international plans and/or those experiencing economic hardship.
A: Well, that’s great! If you would like to contribute to supporting this endeavor, please donate any amount to the LTRI General IDEA Fund today!
Q: Oh no! I’m a Certified Trainer and/or Practitioner and I let my plan expire! Is my profile deleted?
A: Do worry. It’s safe. Please renew as soon as possible. Your profile will take approximately 24 hour to re-appear in our trainer directory.
Q: I accidentally signed up for the wrong plan. What now?
A: It happens. No problem. Please email membership-team@lessacinstitute.org and we’ll help.
Not current member? No problem!
The LTRI Remote International Conference
THE LESSAC TRAINING AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE ITS FIRST EVER FULLY REMOTE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE JANUARY 15-16, 2022!
For information about submitting a proposal or how to register please read more!
The Lessac Training and Research Institute is pleased to announce its first ever fully remote International Conference which will take place January 15-16, 2022!
During this unique moment in history, we hope that this remote platform will provide an opportunity for our global community to continue to engage in meaningful conversations and to connect through Lessac Kinesensics. We continue to hold ourselves accountable to high standards of equity and inclusion and to foster growth in our community. Our conference is being planned by a committee of volunteers having input in all aspects of the conference’s theme, submissions and keynote speakers.
The LTRI is committed to the evolution of Lessac Kinesensics and the diversification of representative voices and perspectives across a broad spectrum of experiences that inform each individual’s uniquenesses including; Race, Geography, Ethnicity, Culture, Language, Sexuality and Gender and encourage any interested Member to consider submitting a propose to share perspectives on ‘our work.’
Please see the conference guidelines for submissions and let us know if you have any questions.
Submission Deadline for Proposals is
November 12, 2021
How to Register
Registration is now open with a sliding fee scale. We invite our members to register within their economic abilities and to utilize the Pay What You Can (PWYC) as needed. We also invite those living outside of the U.S. to use the PWYC rates to balance out currency conversions.
Open Seats: LTRI Board of Directors 2022
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to run for the LTRI Board of Directors… it’s here! The Nominating Committee is accepting submission for consideration in the elections for the 2022 Board of Directors! We encourage all qualified members to consider running! Submissions deadline is October 22. Read here about qualifications and how to submit! Now is a great time to get involved in the LTRI!
The Nominating Committee is now accepting submissions for consideration in the 2022 LTRI Board Elections.
The Nominating Committee is now accepting applications for the election of its 2022 Board Of Directors. The elections will take place between October 29 - November 30 and the elected board members will be notified and announced in mid-December.
The LTRI currently has 2 (two) open seats on its Board and encourages all qualified members* to consider running!
The Institute is committed to the diversification of its Board across a spectrum including;
Race, Geography, Ethnicity, Culture, Language, Gender
Expertise in needed skills
Levels of LTRI membership (Individual Membership, Associate Membership, Professional Membership)
We hope that the newly adopted Board Qualifications will foster this growth.
If you would like to submit for the election process, please;
Review the LTRI Board Expectations
Complete the Nomination Form (also found in the Member Portal).
Submissions should be received by October 22, 2021.
If you have any questions, please reach out to the Nominating Committee at Nominating-Committee@LessacInstitute.org
NOMINATING COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Steve Housley, Immediate Past-President (U.S.), Laurie Mufson, Committee Coordinator (U.S.), Zamah Nkonyeni (South Africa) and Marth Munro (South Africa).
*Board Qualifications:
ARTICLE 5. SECTION 2. QUALIFICATIONS
All Board Members shall be of the age of majority in this state [New York]. Anyone who meets one of the following criteria is eligible to be elected to the Board of Directors:
Has been a Professional [Certified Trainer or Master Teacher] or Associate [Practitioner] member in good standing of the Corporation for at least two (2) years.
Has been a member in good standing of the Corporation for at least 2 years AND has demonstrated extensive leadership and effort in supporting the mission of the Corporation. Extensive leadership is defined as: Serving for a minimum of 2 or more years on a “Team” (i.e. Marketing Team, Newsletter, Membership, Accounting and Admin, Workshops, Conference Planning, Web Solutions, Research Team, Fundraising, etc.)
Is a member or non-member nominated by unanimous vote of the board and will provide support or service that addresses a fiscal or strategic need of the corporation. Nominees under this category are not subject to a vote by Membership or recommendation by the Nominating Committee
KINESENSICS EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES ARE HERE!
Are you teaching in a mask?
Are you looking for safe and effective ways to demonstrate key concepts to your students?
Help is here! KINESENSICS LEARNING CENTER For Lessac Practitioners and Certified Trainers ONLY!
Are you teaching in a mask?
Are you looking for safe and effective ways to demonstrate key concepts to your students or looking to refresh you own teaching or practice?
Help is here!
KINESENSICS LEARNING CENTER
For Lessac Practitioners and Certified Trainers ONLY!
12-MONTH ACCESS FOR $150 (OVER $1500 VALUE)
Subscription period is from Sept 1, 2021-August 31, 2022
Over 10-hours of video and audio material
Recorded content by over 20 Lessac trainers from around the globe!
Complimentary access for up to 30 students until December 31st
Paid access for students after January 1st 2022 (pricing TBD)
WHO IS THE KINESENSICS LEARNING CENTER FOR?
The KLC is currently available to all Lessac Kinesensics Certified Trainers and Practitioners who are LTRI Members and their current students.
HOW DO I SUBSCRIBE?
Contact Us for purchase instructions. Once your trainer status and membership are confirmed, you will be sent a link to sign up for the subscription.
WHAT IS IN THE KLC?
The KLC contains over 10 hours of teaching materials created between September 2020 and June of 2021. The curriculum was developed by the Lessac Master Teacher Team and over 22 Lessac Trainers from around the world and recorded via Zoom. These modules contain the most current LK terminology and teaching approaches. Content is delivered in video demonstrations, audio files, and recorded Powerpoint presentations with informational slides and includes over 30 lessons ranging from a few minutes to a half hour covering Vocal and Body NRG’s, dynamic alignment and breath, and much more.
To see a list of current videos, please click here
HOW CAN I USE THIS IN MY CLASSES OR COACHING?
You may choose to utilize this content for students to respond to in journals, or you may choose to utilize lessons to provide students with a starting point for classwork. There are really no limits to the application of this resource. If you are teaching in person, in a mask, you may wish to show videos during class on a monitor as a teaching tool or assign them outside of class.
HOW LONG WILL MY STUDENTS HAVE ACCESS?
Your students have complimentary access until December 31st 2021. After that time they are required to pay a fee to access the Kinesensics Learning Center content.
HOW DO I GET ACCESS FOR MY STUDENTS AFTER JANUARY 1ST 2022?
You will need to contact us with the number of students you require access for, we will then organize payment from your institution.
Updates from the Executive Team
Hello, Fellow LTRI Members! It has been a very full couple of months here at the LTRI and I am eager to share some news from the Executive Team about the U.S. Intensive, introduce you to ten (10 !!) new practitioners and share some exciting developments in Board Qualifications!
Updates From the Executive Team:
U.S. Intensive, New Practitioners and New Board Qualifications!
Hello, Fellow LTRI Members! It has been a very full couple of months here at the LTRI and I am eager to share some of our success with you and offer a glimpse at what is on the horizon! I hope wherever you are that you and are staying safe, creative and healthy during these very uncertain times.
On behalf of the entire Executive Leadership Team (Myself, Aimee Blesing, President-Elect, Steve Housley, Immediate-Past President and Sean Turner, Managing Director) we hope your Lessac Community will continue to serve and enrich your lives. Our [virtual] door is always wide open. If we can be of service or you just want to chat, exchange ideas or have any questions, please don’t be a stranger (Executive-Team@lessacinstitute.org).
I am looking forward to seeing you ALL at the next Kinesensic Connections Meeting on August 22!
Warmly and Buoyantly,
Kellynn Meeks, LTRI President
THE U.S. INTENSIVE
Caroline Good on the mat at DePauw University
The U.S. Summer Intensive and Facilitator Training finished the first ever remote workshops last month! The dedication, commitment and creativity involved in moving the intensive curriculum to the remote platform was an extraordinary group effort and a true labor of love! The entire Master Teacher Team, the Executive Leadership Team and countless trainers and collaborators who volunteered and/or lent their voices and time to assisting with the creation of asynchronous content deserve our heartfelt thanks and admiration. It was truly an inspiring (and sometimes an anesthetically hair-pulling) process. But with passion and talent there is nothing we can’t accomplish. And we have both in spades here at the LTRI!
Marth Munro showing off her art skills from Pretoria, S.A.
All systems go before voice class from Crystal Robbins at DePauw
Summer Intensive Participants!
Master Teacher Crystal Robbins and Certified Trainer Caroline Good Zoom’d in together from DePauw’s campus while Master Teacher Marth Munro facilitated from 6 hours ahead in Pretoria, South Africa. This Dream Team lead 15 participants through the Intensive with a combination of synchronous and asynchronous content. This is one of our largest groups in recent years and the 15 participants and 3 teachers spanned the globe, zooming in from South Africa, Croatia, the UK and all over the U.S. This multi-lingual group explored Kinesensics for their final projects in Afrikaans, Croatian, English, French, and Korean.
FACILITATOR TRAINING
Facilitator Training participants
In addition to the Intensive, Master Teacher Deb Kinghorn led 7 Practitioners (from 3 continents, but whose counting!) through our first ever remote Facilitator Training (f/k/a Teacher Training). The combination of viewing each day’s recorded voice and body classes from the Intensive, small group discussions and assigned reading allowed for participants to have a certain amount of flexibility in their schedules in order to accommodate a very vast time zone span. Judging from the smiles, we think it was a success and we look forward to their continued journey toward certification and to evolving this modality in the future.
We have learned so, so, much and are continuing to examine data from this process to reflect on how to continue to ensure accessibility to our work at the highest level of quality.
Thank you and congratulations to all who participated, planned, reached, shook and floated, through this process! The effect of your passion and determination speaks volumes.
Speaking of…
NEW PRACTITIONERS
The fruits of this year’s US Intensive were bountiful! 10 (TEN!!) participants took and passed the Practitioner exam. We are thrilled to welcome them into the Kinesensic Trainer community. Congratulations to our most recent Kinesensic Practitioners:
Maria Fenty Denison, Nichole Hamilton, Jessica Miler, Atticus Osborn, Elizabeth Parks, Shadana Patterson, Laura Pirret, Nina Sabo, Lisa Velten Smith, and Marc Williams
INSTITUTIONAL INTROSPECTION AND BOARD QUALIFICATIONS
Our ongoing commitment to organizational introspection and growth is still in full force. We have been meeting with board consultants and strategists to find ways to make impactful change. With an all-volunteer Board and staff, this work is sometimes slow (we like to go atom-to-atom, after all), but please know that the ball is always rolling forward and although you may not hear from us, we are working very actively to ensure a sustainable, accessible and inclusive future for the LTRI.
With that in mind, I am excited to announce that the Board has approved the following changes to Article 5, Sections 1 and 2 of its ByLaws (Please see below) which we hope will serve to diversify our Board of Directors and foster creativity and growth. These changes were proposed by the Leadership Team and approved by the Board on June 5.
We encourage all qualified members (see below) to please consider joining our efforts as we will have 2 (two) open seats on the Board to consider for the coming year. This is an exciting time to be on the Board and to make a big difference in the future of the LTRI.
Please look for an announcement in the coming weeks on how to submit for consideration or reach out to the Nominating Committee directly if you would like more information.
ARTICLE 5
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SECTION 1. COMPOSITION
The corporation shall have nine (9) directors and collectively they shall be known as the Board of Directors. The Board shall consist of the President, President-Elect, Immediate Past-President and six (6) Directors-at-Large, which must include at least one (1) Master Teacher, one (1) Certified Trainer and one (1) Practitioner. The Treasurer and Secretary, if not held by directors at large, along with the Managing Director shall be present at meetings of the board but shall not have voting rights.
SECTION 2. QUALIFICATIONS
All Board Members shall be of the age of majority in this state [New York]. Anyone who meets one of the following criteria is eligible to be elected to the Board of Directors:
a) Has been a Professional or Associate member in good standing of the Corporation for at least two (2) years.
b) Has been a member in good standing of the Corporation for at least 2 years AND has demonstrated extensive leadership and effort in supporting the mission of the Corporation. Extensive leadership is defined as: Serving for a minimum of 2 or more years on a “Team” (i.e. Marketing Team, Newsletter, Membership, Accounting and Admin, Workshops, Conference Planning, Web Solutions, Research Team, Fundraising, etc.).
c) Is a member or non-member nominated by unanimous vote of the board and will provide support or service that addresses a fiscal or strategic need of the corporation. Nominees under this category are not subject to a vote by Membership or recommendation by the Nominating Committee. (see: SECTION 5. VOTING PROCEDURES)
March 2021 Membership Announcements
We are busy planning a year filled with great topics, guest speaker and Master Teacher updates and we hope you will take advantage of this membership benefit. We also want to hear from you! Do you have a subject you’d like to discuss?
Membership Announcements
Hello Members! We hope you are all well and in good health during this challenging time. Some of your members have reported that they have already received vaccinations while others are still waiting with no indication of when that might happen. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, even though it maybe a bit dim and far away, but we look forward to gathering in person with loved ones, friends and students soon.
As always, please reach out and let us know if there is some way the LTRI Membership Team can serve you during this this time.
MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS RETURN!
We pleased to announce that regular membership meetings will resume this month! Back in April of 2020, we started gathering online to discuss how were could possibly continue to teach online! These, then weekly, meetings became a staple for many of us and proved to be a wonderful way for our membership to connect! Well, we are happy to announce that these meetings are here to stay and have evolved to respond to our membership’s interests and we have a new name…
Kinesensic Connections
We are busy planning a year filled with great topics, guest speaker and Master Teacher updates and we hope you will take advantage of this membership benefit. We also want to hear from you! Do you have a subject you’d like to discuss? How about a professional contact who might a offer a unique perspective or expertise in an areas that intersects in our training. Are you doing something specific with Kinesensics that you’d like to share with our community? Please email us at membership@lessacinstitute.org! ( Examples: Lessac Kinesensics for Transgender vocal training, Auditions, Vocal Science, DIE Strategies for fhe Classroom, Coaching the Non-Actor, etc.)
For now, mark your calendars for the following dates and topics:
You may access upcoming LTRI Schedules at our new online Membership Calendar
Dates and Deadlines
June 13 Kinesensic Connections #4
June 20-July 17 US Intensive (Fully Remote)
July - Mid Year Renewal
Open Seats: LTRI Board of Directors
Are you interested in being considered for one of the open seats on the LTRI Board of Directors? Read here about qualifications and what is involved!
The Nominating Committee is now accepting submissions for consideration in the 2021 LTRI Board Elections.
This year, we have two (2) open seats and are pleased to announce that one (1) seat will be designated to a Practitioner Representative who is an Associate Member of the LTRI in good standing. This is a new change to our By-Laws and we are excited to welcome a Practitioner to this role!
If you have questions or would like to be considered for one of the open seats, please reach out to our Nominating Committee and/or send your submission material to nominations@lesssacinstitute.org.
Submissions should be received by December 31 and include:
Your current Resume and/or CV
A a brief statement (meaning approx. 250-300 words) of why you wish to be considered and how your individual strengths might be applied on the LTRI Board.
Qualifications
To be considered for a seat on the LTRI Board you must meet the following qualifications:
You must be an active member in good standing for the last 2 years (i.e. 2019-2020) and;
And meet 1 (one) of the following criteria:
Are a Certified Trainer
(NEW) Are a Practitioner (one of the two open seats for this election will be designated for a Practitioner Representative)
OR
Have demonstrated leadership and/or effort in supporting the LTRI. (This may include active attendance in membership meetings, participating in training (for Practitioners) or otherwise pursuing education, research, and/or teaching Lessac Kinesensics)
Meet a strategic need of the corporation (i.e. you are a grant writer, or a lawyer or have professional experience in an area of need such as DEI training, graphic arts, marketing, promotion, fundraising, bookkeeping. etc.).
What Does Being a Board Member Involve?
Board members serve a 3-year term. Duties vary depending on need, personal interest and strengths. Practitioner Representatives serve a 2-year term with an option to remain for a 3rd year based on reevaluation and Board approval.
Board Members participate in Quarterly Board Meetings and are expected to serve on a "team" that will be appointed based on their interest and talents. Teams can include areas such as Membership outreach, newsletter, marketing, conference planning, etc. Board members should plan to invest a minimum of 4 to 6 hours a month for regular board meetings and correspondence but time commitments can vary greatly depending on LTRI events and the particular needs of the team.
2021 Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee is helmed by The Immediate Past-President Steve Housley and this year, we have 3 LTRI Members serving; Zamah Nkonyeni (South Africa) Laurie Mufson (U.S.) and Marth Munro (South Africa).
The Nominating Committee will review all submissions and consider which candidates meet the qualification and the current needs of the LTRI Board. Voting Members** will be sent a list of final candidates in early January and will be able to cast their votes digitally between January 18 to January 31.
General Membership Meeting
Please Mark your calendars for February 6, 2021 at 10AM EST (7AM PST/4PM GMT+2) for our Annual General Membership meeting which will take place on Zoom.
The new board members will be announced at this meeting. The finalized agenda for this meeting will be sent in late January.
Dates and Deadlines
You may access upcoming LTRI Schedules at our new online Membership Calendar
Dec 31 Submission Deadline for Election Consideration
January 1-31 2021 Membership Renewal Period
Jan 10 Remote Workshop w/ Deb Kinghorn (1:00PM EST)
Jan 18-31 Voting Period
Feb 6 General Membership Meeting (10AM EST)
Renew your Membership for 2021
*Qualifying Member
Has been a Professional member in good standing of the LTRI for at least two (2) years.
Has demonstrated ‘extensive’ leadership and effort in supporting the mission of the LTRI and is recommended for nomination by a current board member. (Extensive leadership is inclusive of the following: a) member is in good standing of the Corporation for at least four (4) years and b) member has served at least one term as Coordinator, Officer, or Committee Chair or demonstrated significant committee service.)
Is nominated by unanimous vote of the board and will provide support or service that address a fiscal or strategic need of the corporation.
**Voting Members are Professional Members (those designated as Certified Trainers or Master Teachers) and Associate Members (those designated Practitioners). Individual and Student Members do not have voting privileges.
December 2020 Membership Announcements
Before we all settle in for a long winter’s nap (hello, Northern Hemisphere) or a holiday nap on the beach (hello, Southern Hemisphere), we have a few announcements for our Global Family.
Membership Announcements
Before we all settle in for a long winter’s nap (hello, Northern Hemisphere) or a holiday nap on the beach (hello, Southern Hemisphere), we have a few announcements for our Global Family.
2021 BOARD ELECTIONS
Our Nominating Committee is preparing for the upcoming election for 2 open Board positions. The Nominating Committee is helmed by The Immediate Past-President, Steve Housley and 3 other LTRI Members. This year we are pleased to have Zamah Nkonyeni (South Africa) Laurie Mufson (U.S.) and Marth Munro (South Africa) on our Nominating Committee.
If you are a Qualifying Member* (details below) and would like to be considered for a Board position, please submit your information to nominations@lessacinsitutte.org no later than December 31.
Submissions should include:
Resume
A Statement of why you wish to be considered and what strengths you have to bring to our leadership team
Voting Members** will be sent a list of final candidates in early January and will be able to cast their votes digitally between January 18 to January 31.
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Please Mark your calendars for February 6, 2021 at 10AM EST (7AM PST/4PM GMT+2) for our Annual General Membership meeting which will take place on Zoom.
The new Board members will be announced at this meeting as well as instructions on accessing the new Membership Portal and other valuable information pertaining to the LTRI.
NEW: LTRI MEMBERSHIP CALENDAR
You may access upcoming LTRI Schedules at our new online Membership Calendar
Dates and Deadlines
Dec 13 Remote Workshop w/ Deb Kinghorn (1 PM EST)
Dec 31 Submission Deadline
January 1-31 Membership Renewal Period
Jan 10 Remote Workshop w/ Deb Kinghorn (1 PM EST)
Jan 18-31 Voting Period
Feb 6 General Membership Meeting (10AM EST)
The Lessac Membership welcomes three new members to its Board of Directors!
The Lessac Membership welcomes three new members to its Board of Directors!
Dear Lessac Members,
I am pleased to announce that the Lessac Membership has chosen three great members to serve on its Board of Directors! Beginning in January, we will welcome Kathleen Dunn, Caroline Good and Morné Steyn as our newest board members.
I’d like to personally welcome and thank Kathleen, Caroline and Morné for accepting a leadership position within the Lessac Institute.
I would also like to thank Robin Aronson and the nominations committee of Crystal Robbins and Kate Ingram for their work in securing the nominees and conducting this year’s election.
Welcome to the new board members!
Sincerely,
Stephen P. Housley
LTRI President
Steve.Housley@LessacInstitute.org
