
From Pirouettes to Profits: How a Dancer Choreographed Her Business Career at UVA Darden
From Ballet Stage to Business Arena: Katherine Williams' Transformative Journey
Katherine Williams (Class of 2026) brings a unique perspective to the business world, drawing from her remarkable background in professional dance. With 16 years of dance experience and a distinguished career as a Soloist with the renowned American Ballet Theatre (ABT), Williams understands that the performing arts offer profound lessons in professional excellence.
Her journey exemplifies the art of thriving under pressure, a skill honed through years of rigorous ballet training. Williams demonstrates that the disciplines of dance—precision, resilience, and adaptability—translate seamlessly into the dynamic world of business strategy.
Now embarking on her academic path at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, Williams embodies the spirit of reinvention. Her transition from professional dancer to business student showcases the power of embracing new challenges and leveraging diverse experiences to drive personal and professional growth.
Williams' story is a testament to the idea that success is not about staying within predefined boundaries, but about courageously exploring new horizons and transforming one's potential.