Skip Navigation

Nelson D. Neal MS’74 to Honor Hemsley Winfield with Bronze Plaque Dedication

I published a bibliography on the life and career of Hemsley Winfield, the first African American modern dancer, and this year, I have had a bronze plaque made and placed on his gravesite in Yonkers, NY.

The formal dedication of the bronze plaque on his gravesite will be Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at 1 p.m., in the Oakland Cemetery in Yonkers, NY.

Hemsley Winfield was a pioneer of modern dance and this is part of the recognition that he deserves. I have researched his life and career for over 30 years and have given numerous national presentations and publications about his life.

In 1974, I received my master’s degree in dance (applied and technical) at UW–Madison under the instruction of F. Mary Fee and Louise Kloepper and believe both of them would want this information to be published about Hemsley Winfield. I have attached a photo of the bronze plaque and the biography.

Nelson D. Neal MS’74, EdD
Professor of Dance, retired

More Alumni Notes

2025 brought much complexity for UW–Madison, we are grateful that the support of alumni and friends was unfailing. Continuing to move our world-class university forward is a mission with no end, and the UW needs its supporters more than ever. Give online now to make an impact on the area most dear to your heart.