The Vinnie Coluzza Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in 2005 following the death of Vinnie at the age of 78. For the last 60 years of her life Vinnie was well known throughout the community as a teacher of dance, a choreographer of countless theater productions and as an inspiration to generations of youth. Vinnie’s associations included The Players Theater, Munson Williams Proctor Art Institute School of Dance, the YWCA, and numerous local high schools throughout Central New York.

Additionally, Vinnie ran her own dance studio in downtown Utica for many years. Describing herself as “not much of a business woman”, Vinnie was known to welcome all students to her classes regardless if their ability to pay. So, if you had a passion to learn then you had a place in her class, and her heart, no matter what your financial circumstances were.

This Scholarship fund was established to honor Vinnie’s memory, to continue her mission and to commemorate her lifetime contribution to our community. Vinnie will always be remembered for her inspiring philosophy that financial constraints should never impede an individual’s desire to explore their interests and hone their talents in the performing arts.