If you could leave a comment with a memory or two or send me your favorite photo/video with you and Lisa to erin.prettyeasy@gmail.com I would like to put together something to send to her family. She has touched many lives and I think they would enjoy seeing and reading about their wonderful daughter/wife/mother eventually.
Please leave your memories, etc. in the comments below. Feel free to pass this along to anyone who would like to participate.
xoxo,
Erin
In hearing this terrible news about Lisa, I have been spending the afternoon reflecting about how she impacted and influenced my life. Lisa radiated joy, encouragement, faith, and always taught me how to have a dedicated and strong work ethic.
ReplyDeleteI first worked with Lisa as she choreographed all of us "Pick-a-little Ladies" in the Music Man at BYU in 2005 and she won the outrageous laughs of the audience as we danced her grecian urn choreography:)
Next I found myself in Lisa's advanced jazz class and me looking to her for help because I was always too stiff and never felt like a jazz dancer. She told me to never wear my hair in a bun or even a ponytail to class again and I could never wear pink or black!!!!! Hahah!!...she gave me the permission and inspiration I needed to loosen up and to stop just being a ballet dancer trying to take Jazz Dance class.
As I progressed though school, Lisa became became a guiding light for me. She saw potential in me that I couldn't see, giving me the opportunity to assist and then even teach jazz dance classes at BYU. I was scared stiff to do this at times, but I knew that Lisa believed in me and that she was counting on me! Because of her I had the opportunity to directly influence my own students at BYU.
As my time at school was winding down, Lisa once again became my choreographer...this time in Thoroughly Modern Millie. And through her confidence in me, brilliant choreographic ideas, and her attitude of collaboration she gave me the gift of earning laughs and cheers from the audience. She helped me make Mrs. Meers into a character that I loved and cherished. She gave me memories through her choreography in this show that I will cherish for my entire life!
Through all of Lisa's professional work, I also always knew that she loved her family and she loved God. Lisa shared her testimony through words but most often through her actions. I know that she also strove to keep her priorities of God and family first and her work second.
I love Lisa so much and am so grateful that we all lead lives where we can influence each other and help each other to reach our full potentials.
God bless you Lisa and all of your wonderful family!
Lisa was an inspiration! A dynamic dancer and one who impacted so many lives.
DeleteI loved Lisa's Advanced Jazz Class at BYU, so much that I took it twice...she was THAT good.
Simply amazing, really.
She was such an inspiring teacher, and lifted and encouraged each dancer.
I loved her class, I loved her!
I learned so much from her both in dance and in the gospel.
I'll never forget the day she shared one of her favorite scriptures to our class.
Isaiah 64:8:
"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Lisa went on to explain that God has blessed us with individual talents and challenges and blessings. We need to use what we have and be sculpted and shaped as He would have.
That lesson has made a deep impression on me. The Lord truly is our Potter, and we are His clay.
We have to allow Him to sculpt us into what He wants us to become.
Thank you, Lisa for all you taught me through dance and in the gospel.
God Bless you and your beautiful family!
Love,
Stacey McIlroy Westenskow
Lisa was my teacher for Advanced Jazz Technique and even though my Jazz dancing was anything but advanced (or very technical) she was always very patient and helpful towards me. She would meet with me after class and help set up a dance tutor on the side to help me. And even though my dancing still wasn't great she always made me feel great by being extremely caring and by being not only a teacher but a friend. She was part of helping me get into dancing Hip Hop, and she got me in the Jazz Dance Club and I even later became a dance teacher privately and at BYU-H (which I never would have imagined possible or me being capable of doing) greatly because of her influence. She believed in me as a student, as a person and as a friend. And that was part of her greatest legacy to me--that she believed in me and helped me to believe more in myself. She talked with me one on one, outside of class and about everything in my life--not just class--she helped me and showed she cared. She always was positive towards me, even and especially when she saw me struggling. She took the time to make a difference and to give of herself. I'm sure she touched many more lives in many more ways the she ever realized. I'm very sad to hear of her passing and I'm sure she will be very missed by her loved ones, her friends and family and all of those many people she has touched.
ReplyDeleteI was an MDT major at BYU and one of the highlights of my time there was taking Lisa's advanced jazz class. Everyone in the major revered her and worked their tails off to be able to work up to that class. She breathed style into a major that was somewhat stuck in the art form of modern. I'm so grateful for her and the change she brought!!!
ReplyDeleteI was a ballerina who was stuck in my technique and she helped pull some style out of me. She had more style in her little toe than most have in their whole body! I'll never forget hearing her voice on my video tests. She was encouraging and kind. I am grateful to have known her.
Much Love,
Carly (Lewis) White
I am so incredibly heartsick that one of my mentors has passed away today. Lisa Stoddard impacted my life in so many ways. She taught me to be a better dancer and choreographer. She mentored me as a teacher and was the reason I assisted and eventually taught at BYU. She pushed me to be better and to work harder. I have countless videos of her coaching me while I danced, refining me and shaping me during a very transitional time. She guided me towards musical theater and opened my eyes to the MDT program at BYU. I am grateful for her in my life and her willingness to take me under her wing. Until we meet again.
ReplyDeleteMy very first semester teaching at BYU, Lisa was one of my 340 students. I loved her then, but didn't realize at the time how much this young, beautiful, long legged dancer would impact my life. She became one of my own mentors as I watched how she balanced family and career. She was an amazing dancer, teacher, choreographer, artist, mommy, sister, and a dear friend. Always encouraging, she would give me confidence and tell me I could do things. I admired her for the way she always cheered for others and never sought her own praise even though she certainly deserved it. I will miss her smile and laugh, miss talking about our kids, miss talking about how much we loved our students, miss sharing ideas, and miss her beautiful spirit.
ReplyDeleteI am so saddened to hear of Lisa's sudden passing. She was instrumental in helping mold my career as a performer, dancer and teacher. Through her teaching, mentoring, humor, encouragement, example and positive influence, I was able to better define my technique, find and develop my style, create my own movement "voice" and craft a successful future in the home and in the industry. I am grateful for all that she taught me, and know that she will be greatly missed by many. Dance on, Lisa. Dance on.
ReplyDeleteI have known Lisa for many years. I first met Lisa as a young dancer training at The Dance Club. She was my first Tap teacher and I continue to use the skills she taught me in my teaching today. As I grew up I was able to take class from Lisa more and more. I was lucky enough to take class from her at The Dance Club and she was the Orem High School Dance Company coach. I still remember the day she pulled me aside when I was struggling and told me what a great dancer I was and how I would accomplish so many great things, I just needed to believe in myself. I was then able to be on her UVSC dance team for 2 years and continue learning from her and her sister Rachelle. What a great team they made coaching! Lisa has left such a great impact on so many people. I am heartbroken that she was taken back home so soon, but can imagine the beautiful dancing happening in Heaven. Praying for her family during this difficult time!
ReplyDeleteAshley Olsen-Atwater
Working along side Lisa for many years now has blessed my life and the lives of all of the MDT students at BYU. She was so dedicated to our program and the success of our students and demanded the very best of them. I know that they respected her deeply and I loved watching her work to bring out the best in others. She served faithfully on our Steering Committee and always did more than her part. I love her and will miss working with her. To her family, thank you for sharing your beautiful mother, wife,and sister with so many! It is of great comfort to know that her work carries on and that, as Joseph Smith said, "that same sociality that exists here, will exist there." Until we meet again Lisa. We love you.
ReplyDeleteLisa taught me as a teen at my dance studio. She always created the most captivating routines that won the hearts of those who watched, and us who danced them. Lisa really knew how to work us to our point. I remember having a standing back handspring in the dance she choreographed and I always marked this back handspring. Each time Lisa would give me some tough love and encouraged me to do the back-handspring full out. She always believed in me on special occasions, and although I didn't see it then, I look back and see it now. I learned many lessons from her, and I am grateful that I got the opportunity to. What a wonderful influence to the Utah dance community. There were so many touched by your spirit here on earth, it must be heaven's turn now. Until we meet again Lisa.
ReplyDeleteLisa taught me as a teen at my dance studio. She always created the most captivating routines that won the hearts of those who watched, and us who danced them. Lisa really knew how to work us to our point. I remember having a standing back handspring in the dance she choreographed and I always marked this back handspring. Each time Lisa would give me some tough love and encouraged me to do the back-handspring full out. She always believed in me on special occasions, and although I didn't see it then, I look back and see it now. I learned many lessons from her, and I am grateful that I got the opportunity to. What a wonderful influence to the Utah dance community. There were so many touched by your spirit here on earth, it must be heaven's turn now. Until we meet again Lisa.
ReplyDeleteSinging & dancing has been my passion for as long as I can remember. And, for the majority of my adolescence, I was confident I was fairly proficient at both.
ReplyDeleteAnd then I entered the Music Dance Theatre program at BYU, where my confidence was quickly undermined. It didn't take too long, after some understanding of the science of voice and changing some bad habits, for me to become reassured in my singing ability, but dancing was a different matter. After years of it being something I had loved, I became glaringly aware of my weaknesses in it and the majority of the professors at BYU did very little to ease my insecurities; in fact, in many cases, they heightened them.
I became greatly discouraged, and buried myself in progressing in my singing & acting training in order to maintain any sort of the confidence one needs in order to grace the stage with any sort of admirable presence. By the time I entered my senior year, my dance classes had become something I just wanted to "survive," which was disheartening for someone who had once found great joy in the discipline.
i walked into my Advanced Jazz class in the fall of my final year of college, bracing myself for impending failure and anxiety. I learned, very quickly, that my teacher, like her predecessors, was not going to be easy on me. And it discouraged me. Until one day, she approached me and asked me, "Do you know why I'm so hard on you?"
I didn't want to answer, so, I didn't.
She continued, "Because I don't think you realize the talented dancer in you, and I want her to stop hiding."
This morning, that insightful, talented, discerning, quirky, and creative woman, Lisa Stoddard, passed away in a car accident on her to the airport to fly out to NYC to support her students in a showcase.
It always seems to be the good ones that leave too soon....
Dear Lisa, when I think of you, I remember sitting in your office and your kind words of encouragement and good laughs. May God be with your dear sweet family at this time. I love you. Don't forget to peak in every once in a awhile. Much love, Anya Wilson
ReplyDeleteI grew up with lisa in santa clara Ivins area she was always so sweet and loving I remember her and her brother shane dancing together all the time when we had church road shows or things at school I am saddened to here that she has passed away. My heart goes out to Ann and her husband and family she will be missed. Adrienne Goeser
ReplyDeleteLisa along with her sister Rachelle were my dance director(s) at UVSC. Lisa truly inspired me to be a better dancer. Dancing has been my passion my whole life and I'm so grateful I was able to have Lisa inspire me to be better. I was honored to serve as dance president and got to work hand in hand with Lisa. I love her strong work effort and her desire to always make us better dancers. I remember before nationals we had a "boot camp" where our directors dressed in camo gear and made us work super hard.. This time was suppose to be all serious and no play, but Lisa had the hardest time holding back the smiles and laughs. She truly brought a special bond to our team. She made us work together as a team to achieve our goals. Her choreography was technical and raw. She always pushed us to our fullest and made each dancer shine through their individual strengths.
ReplyDeleteIn advanced jazz and technique classes outside of school, I will never forget the impact Lisa had on me. She wanted each dancer to feel comfortable in their own skin and she made everyone feel special for the way they looked. I remember her telling me after one class that she didn't want cover ups on anymore. I was self conscious with the way I looked, but she made me feel comfortable on the dance floor. She truly wanted me to bring my strengths to the team and wanted me to shine for them. For their was no reason to hide!
Thank you Lisa for making me feel comfortable in my own skin and for allowing me to show others why I love dance. To this day I instill in my dance students what you helped me understand. "I was given a talent, so let it shine!"
You were an amazing dance director, friend, mother and wife. You always put your family first and I respect you for that. I know that your love for dance will continue to help dancers progress and improve. You've made a huge impact in the dance world. I love you so much and thank you for being part of my life. Heaven truly gained a special person!! Can't wait til we meet again.
Lisa was an amazing choreographer! As a dance company member at BYU I remember loving the dances she choreographed for the Cougarettes, so much so that when I was the dance teacher at Bingham High School 2013-2015, I asked her to come choreograph a dance on my dance comapany girls. They loved working with her and the dance she created for them was challenging and pushed them technically, which was such a great experience for them. Her dance was an instant crowd pleaser and everyone always commented how much they loved it! She was an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteLisa was a wonderful teacher/ friend any student could have. She was one of my high school teachers who did anything she could to see her students succeed. She was always smiling and cracking jokes. But one thing i will always remember is my dance class, i am a slower learner and she did everything to help me learn our dances. She showed me that i could do anything and that it might just take a little bit longer than everyone else. She will forever be missed. We all love you Lisa.
ReplyDeleteIt was my very great privilege to be able to know and work with Lisa on The Music Man at BYU. It was her first shot at choreographing the main-stage musical, and if I'm not mistaken, one of the first (maybe even THE first) musicals she'd ever done. I remember walking into the first rehearsal, and I could tell she was somewhat nervous. She looked right at me and said somewhat apprehensively, "OK, I'm gonna need a lot of help from you guys..." Little did she know, my first thought was, "Uhhhhh, that's what I was gonna say to YOU!" But if she was indeed experiencing any nervous pangs in those first moments, they most certainly had little to no effect on her. She not only excelled above and beyond everyone's expectations, she was able to create what was and remains one of my most treasured life experiences.
ReplyDeleteI went on later that year to also take part in Lisa's Advanced Jazz class, and as many others have previously expressed here, I too was terrified. I had never danced a step until I got to BYU, and even though this was my senior year, and final semester, I still had zero inclination to call myself a dancer. Luckily I now considered Lisa a friend, and she once again, created an environment of encouragement, support and joy where I felt, for the first time, like a dancer. She had an ease about her - a grace and a grounded sense of self, not to mention that wonderful sense of humor that I've come to know from all 3 of the Wright children in my life. She made me feel safe. It's been almost 10 years since I've had any interaction with her, yet I know that the things she taught me have manifested themselves time and time again, and always for my benefit.
To all her family, especially her husband and children, you have my sincerest gratitude for her life. Though it offers little comfort at this time, I count her among a growing list of beautiful souls gone too soon, who were simply too wonderful to remain in this sojourn any longer. May God grant you strength, love, and peace until which time you will most undoubtedly embrace her once again.
I only knew Lisa briefly. We worked together on a musical theater production at BYU. She was very encouraging to me and brought a great energy and lots of patience to rehearsals. I spoke with her a little bit about 2 weeks ago at a dinner with the caste and she was as happy as ever and shared a little with me about how she got into doing choreography first for dance companies in Salt Lake, then MDT at BYU. She will be missed.
ReplyDeleteI did not know Lisa personally, but my daughters did. My girls transferred schools to ALA this year and both of my girls had her for a teacher. My daughter Samantha Duersch has always struggled with coordination to a great degree, but really wanted to try taking a dance class. She was very concerned with how her teacher would treat her and worried that she would be impatient. That never happened. Sammi loved dance because Mrs. Stoddard made her feel as though she was always improving and was always very patient and kind with her progress. She made Samantha feel special and important and made a class that was very difficult for her, turn out to be a great learning experience. My daughter Caitlin had her as a leadership teacher and learned some important life principals from this wonderful woman. We only knew Mrs. Stoddard for a short time, but she had a lasting positive impact on both of my girls. I will always be grateful for what they experienced with her.
ReplyDeleteThough I had a dance background, I had never actually taken jazz before, so delving into Lisa's advanced jazz class was intimidating for me. I felt like a total underdog, but she never made me feel that way because she addressed me as an individual dancer, not as a dancer in comparison to other dancers. Even if I never got to the level of the other dancers in the class, she celebrated my personal improvement throughout the semester. That attitude of celebrating personal improvement, and not worrying about myself in comparison to others, has stuck with me since. I also distinctly remember a testimony she bore to us at the end of the semester, reminding us that we were all like diamonds being formed by Heavenly Father, which means that before becoming the diamond, we'd have to go through the heat and pressure of life, and then further have to have coal chipped away to get to the diamond. The way she taught us and treated us really reflected her sincere belief that we were all diamonds in the making, and I loved it!
ReplyDeleteI ran into Lisa in the MDT lobby when I was pregnant with my first. She came up to me and started rubbing my preggo belly as she talked with me for a good 15 minutes about becoming a mommy. She's calm. She was aware of people as walked down the hall. She wasn't afraid to come talk - or to touch my belly, which I loved.
ReplyDeleteI knew Lisa loved being a wife and mom. She would bring TaeLor into our dance classes occasionally - TaeLor was a toddler and CUTE. I wanted to have kids as cute as hers someday. One day, Lisa came into class and before she started class, she told us that since we were always hearing what was wrong about being too physical while we were dating, she wanted to let us know how great it was to be able to sleep with your spouse - yep! She said she just wanted to let us know that how beautiful it was to be able to express with her husband and to create kids. Of COURSE that stood out to us:)
I visited the Wright family at their hotel room once in New York. Lisa had come because she was doing a Master Class somewhere amazing. When I went to the hotel room, she was just lying on the bed - nice, and mellow - but preggo sick. I just admired her for coming and being willing to be pregnant and sick and still do the Master Class.
I still remember her choreography to Fosse - "IIIIII GOTCHA, uh-huh, uh-huh, you thought I didn't see you now, didjya". I still bust out doing the choreo occasionally. 14 years later. I like that that's the piece of her work that's hardwired in my brain. It's carrying a piece of her art with me always - I Gotcha, Lisa.
She always had a smile on her face and was inspiring people to be better. She raised one of the best woman i have ever seen, Taelor, Who under her mothers care is so generous so kind, so gentle. Mrs. Stoddard will always be with us. Her family has just gained the greatest and most powerful guardian angel...she IS a mother, she IS an influential person, and she is with us...shes in the breeze. shes in the sunlight. shes in the grass. Her tears are in the rain...She is dancing, just as she always has...Thank you for your life. Your example. God has brought an amazing women home to preform an amazing work. we love you lisa.
ReplyDeleteTo the Stoddard family and especially Troy, My family has shed tears for your loss! We have thought about you so much the past couple of days feeling that we should call and see how you are doing. Today then happened and nothing can express our sorrow!
ReplyDeleteWe love you! We will be here for you in your ups and downs.
We will be in touch but right now we know you are in the arms of those who love you.
We love you more than you know
The Martin Family
Ray and LuWana
Lisa was beautiful, fun, inspirational and loving She cared when no one else would. She let me assist her tap classes at BYU and UVU. She gave me confidence to teach others. To her daughters, your mother touched the lives of so many. Carry her torch. She lives in you.
ReplyDeleteLisa has taught two of my daughters dance and she taught them how to truly love the art. She made both my girls feel like they were her favorite students. It didn't take long to realize that she made every dancer feel that way. Lisa had a way about her that made everyone feel comfortable and loved. She was full of fun and kindness and a true Christlike spirit. Both of my girls learned so much from her and they loved her improv class. Lisa always cared about my girls outside of dance. Lisa always made me laugh and remember why we were doing the whole dance thing. Lisa was a true angel and she will be missed.
ReplyDeleteLisa choreographed the dances for the BYU production of "Oklahoma" and was an excellent teacher!! She was so good at what she did! The show was fabulous because of her talent! She will be missed!!
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers and love to the Stoddard/Wright family. It's hard to condense all the things that I loved about Lisa into this little thought. I'll start by saying that she was an absolutely inspiring dance teacher who touched thousands of dancers lives. She had such a big heart. Her smile was contagious. She knew how to laugh and have fun. She knew exactly what to say and communicate when people were feeling down. She communicated so much love through her eyes and through her dancing.
ReplyDeleteI remember my first class with her at BYU. I was a terrified little freshman who dared take her Advanced Jazz class. I had danced my entire life, but when I heard how hard her class was and that she really pushed her students, I was so scared. She sat us down on the first day of class and took out a dollar bill from her pocket and asked us how much it was worth. She crumpled it up, threw it on the floor, stomped on it, then picked it back up. She then asked us again how much it was worth. It was still $1. She told us that no matter what happens in life, no matter how many times we are crumpled up and stomped on in this life, we are still worth what Heavenly Father made us to be because He loves us. Lisa was able to make us all remember our eternal worth. She pushed us hard because she believed in us and knew that we could achieve greatness.
We love you so much, Lisa!
Love, Stephanie Southerland
I knew Lisa as we were students at BYU and then life came full circle and we found ourselves both teaching at BYU with the MDT students. The students loved her. Lisa radiated. She seemed to have an inner peace and it was calming to talk to her because of that peace. Love and blessings to her family and all who mourn her loss today.
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of Lisa, there are two memories that come to mind. The first is when I was in her advanced jazz class at BYU. (I am sure she passed me out of pity so I could graduate). She had choreographed a dance for us to "Let's Make Love" by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Because she knew some people might find it an offensive song (which is annoying, in my opinion), she felt compelled to defend her choice. She said she felt like it was a meaningful song that illustrates a valuable, beautiful aspect of a marriage relationship. She got emotional about it, and that was really profound for me, because it was clear how she felt about her husband. She was articulate and simple, and yet her depth of feeling for her own marriage was very plain.
ReplyDeleteThe other memory in my mind happened 10 years later, the semester I was teaching a class at BYU, in 2012. Lisa came in to teach some dance for the class, and I was a little nervous when I walked into the classroom, because I had not seen her for a really long time and was unsure if she would remember me. She immediately came over and gave me a huge hug and talked to me like the years had never happened. I was never a great dancer, so it never occurred to me that she would still know who I was, not being one who would have excelled in her class. So her regard and kindness meant so much to me, and I will never forget it.
Dance your heart out up there, Lisa. We'll see you again. So much love to you and your family.
So much has already been said that affirms what a sweet caring soul Lisa had. Her talent for dance was matched by her ability to relate to her students, push them to excellence and build their self confidence and worth. My favorite memory of Lisa is her teaching our class to triple pirouette while however many months pregnant. Nothing could stop her! I was grateful to know her and thankful for her influence in my life. To the Stoddard and Wright families, No words are sufficient to express my sorrow for your loss.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing Lisa with all of us,
Brent Quam
I have beautiful memories of Lisa. She was always willing to share her talents and she touched so many lives. When we started Art With Heart she was there to do all the lighting & tech work and helped us every year. She had a special light that brightened the room when she walked in. She will be missed. She was loved by all who knew her. My love & prayers to her sweet family.
ReplyDeleteI haven't known Lisa very long, but I will always remember that she was the first one to say hi and to ask about me. She was so welcoming. When I was pregnant with my son, she told me about how it is such a joy to be a mom - and that joy just radiated from her even though I hardly knew her. I loved watching her students take class - they were always hanging on her every word and adored her. She could get them to share deep passion through dance and she could also easily get a laugh out of them. What a sweet, wonderful woman.
ReplyDeleteI did not know Lisa well on a personal level, but she had a profound influence on me while I was finishing up the MDT program at BYU. In order to graduate from the program I was required to take an advanced jazz class, which I was absolutely terrified of. I had recognized some years before that I was certainly not destined to be a professional dancer, but decided to struggle through the dance part of the program for the exposure and experience in movement it would give me. That being said, advanced jazz for me was something akin to requiring an elephant to walk on stilts. And yet, through the whole ordeal, Lisa was infinitely patient, gracious, and encouraging while teaching the class. Never letting me off the hook entirely, while still helping me maintain some degree of self-esteem as I flailed around class surrounded by Cougarettes, dance majors, and my own MDT comrades...she was kind beyond compare. Always requiring that I try, while never making me feel the fool. Thank you for that, Lisa. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteI was in Lisa's class my first semester at BYU in the MDT major. I remember how much I loved her class! I still remember one of our dances for exams was to "Dancin Dan, Me and My Shadow". I had never heard that song before then, and fell in love with it. Every time I hear it, I think of Lisa. I think of her style, passion and love for dance and the arts! She was somewhat intimidating, yet very inspiring all at the same time! She knew how to get dancers to excel and grow, even when we didn't think we could! Thank you Lisa for being such a light and inspiration to me and so many others!
ReplyDeleteIt is so rare that you find someone so talented, who is so humble, and down to earth the way Lisa is. Not to mention the inspirational mentor she always has been. She was so sincere in a quiet, confident way. She always reminded me of the Savior in that way. And she knew how to have a good time! Yet she always seemed content and peaceful, never taking from others, only giving support and praise and love. She was always invested. What a great teacher! What a great friend! She always felt like a big sister! She always believed in me and did her best to cheer me on and help in any way she could! Thank you Lisa! I'm so grateful for your friendship, and to have been able to be your student at BYU. To have been able to work with you on The Music Man, as well as at Lagoon. But I'm most grateful for your friendship and example. You have not only dramatically influenced me as a teacher of dance, but also as a person. Thank you for all you've given, for all you've been, and for all you will continue to do! We will miss you dearly Lisa!!!... All our love! - Cody and Valerie
ReplyDeleteI didn't know you well at all. However, you made B days my daughter's favorite days because she was dancing with you. She told me last night that besides family the only other person who said she was wonderful the way she is was you. Thank you for helping her feel good about herself. Words cannot express what you mean to her. I told her that you would always be in her head reminding her that she is enough the way she is. Thank you,
ReplyDeleteTammy and Emily Struthers
Lisa Stoddard was one of the best dance educators and choreographers I have ever known. She has been an inspiration to me since I was 12 years old. I met her at BYU dance camp and she saw potential in me and made me set my bar and expectations higher. She truly supported me in all my artistic endeavors. She knew how to inspire movement and emotion from the deepest part of you so that you could truly demonstrate artistic expression. I remember being in class when I was very young and during the dance she went over to the lights and turned them off! I thought, "Why would she do that? Then no one can see me." I then started to dance as I never had before. It was that day she taught me that dance should come from an internal place and not be motivated from external sources. Since that day I learned what dance is truly about... a true connection of body, mind and soul. She was so clear and concise with her lessons but also allowed her students to fully realize what she had seen right away. Such a tragedy. She has left an amazing legacy that will not be forgotten. Love to her family and may God and Angels be round about you. Love, Corinne
ReplyDeleteDance teachers teach you a lot about who you are and who you want to be. Lisa not only taught me how to dance but taught me how to be a good person through her example. I wouldn't be the person I am today without you Lisa. Your kind and hilarious self has left many footprints in my life and I am grateful for them. So thank you for the wonderful influence you had on my life. My heart goes out to all those who knew and loved Lisa, especially her dear family. Heaven received an angel yesterday. Until we meet again. Love: Abi
ReplyDeleteI was just quoting Lisa the other day. Not in a dance class, but in a business meeting. I was talking about how I had a dance teacher who always taught that dancers fight for what comes easy to them. If you're a right turner, you'll always fight for that extra spin because you just know you can do it, but on the left you fall off the double and just throw it away and say "well, I was never a left turner anyway." But Lisa taught you can't throw it away, you have to fight for the things that are hard for you with as much determination as you would if it came naturally to you. And that's how you get really good. Lisa, your lessons were life lessons. They live on and still have an impact and they will continue to have an impact inside and outside the dance studio. Thank you for sharing your beautiful insights and wisdom. Keep coaching us from up there. ---Allison Shields
ReplyDeleteAt BYU I also had one of her classes. They were always the hardest to get into because there was such a high demand - which says so much to her style and teaching. She taught me a lot - she knew how to teach and challenge the class. She put her heart and passion into those classes and wanted us to always become better and grow. My heart goes out to her family. She will always be remembered.
ReplyDeleteI don't even know where to start. How Lisa impacted me in so many ways.....I first met Lisa at a friends house- they told me what an amazing dance teacher she was and I dreamed of a day that someday I could take a class from her. Not too long later I was told she was coming to teach at my school and be the dance company director. I couldn't even express how excited I was. For those few years being held under her wing I learned more lessons then I can ever count. She gave me opportunities to be a leader, and gave me reasons not to give up. The lessons about myself and how my lack of technique didn't matter because I was creative and dance was something that was in my heart helped me learn to express myself. When I had been absent from school for a few days she pulled me aside after class and would ask me if everything was okay and give me the most loving of hugs.The more hours in the day I spent in the dance room with her the happier I was. By my senior year I found myself spending every other class either as a TA or just taking the class to be in the room with her. From the laughs we had and the lessons she taught- she shaped who I am and has inspired me to pay it forward. I love you Queen. You will always be a part of me and who I am...because without you I wouldn't have made it this far.
ReplyDeleteWe were the best of friends in high school, college, and the years
ReplyDeletethat followed. We were together every Friday night and knew
everything about each other. We danced together, laughed together,
and grew up together. I can honestly say that Lisa was one of the
kindest people I have ever known. I never saw her angry and I don't
remember an unkind word ever coming out of her mouth. She was quick
to think of others and oh so fun to be friends with. I loved her and
I will miss her so much. My prayers and thoughts go out to her family
and may our Savior comfort them.
Love,
Shannon Eardley Hougaard
My heart goes out to the Lisa Stoddard family; Lisa was a gifted dance teacher, but an even more gifted mentor. I just graduated from BYU with my BA in Dance, but the past two years have been incredibly difficult as I've tried to finish the dance major graduation requirements despite a rather serious hip condition. I'll never forget trying to hide my tears after I completely destroyed my first dance technique test in Lisa's advanced jazz class after returning home from a full-time LDS mission and struggling with my debilitating hip injury. Lisa waited until we were alone then gently rested her arm on my shoulder. She said she understood the frustration of slowly watching your body digress--she too struggled with injuries that permanently affected her dance ability, but she loving said, "You're not in this class to gain back the ability you've lost, but the confidence and love of dance that you've allowed yourself to lose. You can't control physical limitation, but you can control yourself." Lisa may be gone, but her words live on. I'll forever be indebted for her mentorship in caring more about the condition of my heart than the condition of my body. I may not have left her class a better dancer, but I have no doubt that I left her class a better person, more understanding with myself and more appreciative for the gift of dance I was able to enjoy for at least 22 years of my life. Thanks Lisa; you will be missed. --Lindsay M. Farr-Harper
ReplyDeletebut our loss is Heaven's gain :)
DeleteSending much love and prayers for the Stoddard family at this time, they have an incredible mother that I looked up to and still think of often. I studied Jazz II and MDT Choreographic Styles from Lisa during 2006-2007 and always felt a special connection to her because I learned she grew up in St. George like I did. On March 7,2007 I wrote an entry about my MDT Choreographic Styles dance and want her family to hear what Lisa shared with us that day:
ReplyDelete"Today, in MDT Choreographic Styles we learned about Twyla Tharp, but then we asked Lisa Stoddard to tell a little bit of her upbringing and what brought her to where she is today. I learned that she grew up during her high school years at Dixie High School and most likely had my dad as her seminary teacher. Lisa went to UNLV for her BA in Dance Performance and to BYU for her MA in Dance Choreography. She talked a lot about her testimony and temple marriages and the value she places on eternal families. She also talked about how what matters more to her than anything else is when she comes home and her 5 year old son hugs her and tells her she's the Best Mom in the World--I know that my kids are going to mean the world to me as well and I hope that I can always keep them in perspective...We also talked about being a shining star wherever we're at." Thank you Lisa for not only teaching me about dance, but also about what matters most in life and sharing your testimony of eternal families. As a mother of two young boys, and adjunct dance instructor at Dixie State University now, I think of you often and your testimony will always influence my life! Much love to your beautiful family!
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteWe will miss you. Thank you for your courage, for teaching truth, for being an advocate of living the gospel and pursuing passions. We are all better for having known you. May your family be blessed with great comfort and may they build on the foundation you laid for them to soar to the heights of their dreams.
Sincerely,
Autumn
Reading these comments makes me sad I didn't know the grown-up Lisa, but I want to let her children know what an amazing teenager their mother was. I danced with Lisa throughout highschool at Dixie High and choreographed some pieces with her. I always admired her, not only for her talent but for her integrity and "pureness". One always knew Lisa would never speak badly about anyone. She was confident and always brought others up to her level. She was never pretentious or uppity, but always so loving and funny. One example I still remember is that whenever I was in the newspaper for different things (it wasn't hard to make the St.George Spectrum back in the 80's) Lisa would lovingly cut out my picture and mount it on scrapbook paper and give it to me for my own keepsake. I'm not sure why I remember that, but it stands out to me how loving and thoughtful she was as a teenager. It's a wonderful legacy and I want to add my conviction of the beautiful plan of our Heavenly Father. You will see her again and know that she is with you in spirit--guiding, loving and protecting you….and most likely dancing. muchl ove, Michelle Hinton Larsen
ReplyDeleteI have many sweet memories of you, Lisa Stoddard, my jazz teacher at BYU. It has been nearly 14 years since I was blessed to take your class, but the lessons you taught me are still fresh in my mind. I still to this day use the double outside, single inside, triple outside pirohuette combination when I want to mix things up. I remember when you were so morning sick with one of your pregnancies. For some reason you didn't have cash so I insisted that you take my Dining Plus card to buy yourself some crackers. You wanted to pay me back, but I would let you partly because it was my parents money but mostly because you had already paid me back tenfold. I remember when returned our papers on what made a dancer great and made an example of the one who had listed technique above all else. You made her redo it and then led a fiery discussion on how passion came before all else. I sat silently echoing my amens because I knew that what I lacked in technique I made up for in my passion and your stance on the matter made me feel validated by you. I remember when you had us write a paper on how LDS General Conference impacted us personally. I wrote on a talk about how trials make us stronger. I do not remember my exact words but I remember confessing to you my devastation over not making the BYU Cougarettes that year and how I was working hard to try again. I was so impacted by your sweet comments in red telling me that you believed that dream could become a reality. Lisa, we both know that it did become a reality, but I without your loving guidance that helped me improve so much in one year, I am not sure that it could have. I love you. I think of the lessons you taught me often. You continue to inspire me. I am not sure I ever told you because I believe I was a bit intimidated by your brilliance. One my favorite songs continues to be one that was introduced to me in your class, "Burn" by Tina Arena. Thank you for teaching all your students to burn for what they do.
ReplyDeleteLove, Hanne Pate Schmidt
Spending time with Lisa was one of the highlights of my time at BYU. She was an incredible teacher, choreographer, and friend. When she taught, she did more than teach dance. She had a way of teaching confidence, bravery, and joy as well. I remember leaving her class my last year at BYU feeling like I could do anything because she believed I could do anything. I don't know if she realized just how much of an impact she had on all of us who knew her. I feel blessed to have had her in my life. Thank you Lisa!
ReplyDeleteAs many it seems felt upon first dancing for Lisa, I was terrified. I had this sense of awe about her and was just so sure she was going to see right through my facade and see that i didn't actually belong in this "d" part of MDT. However, as also seems to be the case, it didn't take long to absolutely love this woman!! She had a way of putting me at ease and building me even though I wasn't by any means incredible clay for her to mold. I had so much fun working with her in Music Man, Advanced Jazz, and a million other random projects, etc. But honestly the memory that stands out the most to me was a conversation I had with her during a difficult time in my life where I was trying to decide what my next step was after college. I want to say she was either pregnant or had just had a baby at the time but I remember her telling me how much she loved being a mom and how she wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. At that time in my life that was an answer to prayer. And I sense that for anyone who had the chance to get to know her, that is what they remember the most. Lisa genuinely cared for and loved people. She was willing to break the student/teacher barrier a bit and be your friend. The influence she had on the dance floor, while amazing, seems to pale in comparison to the lives she touched off it just by being who she was. While it's been several years since I've even seen her and while I won't pretend to know her as much as many of you, I really am so grateful The Lord put her in that program while I was there!! I'll never forget her!!!
ReplyDelete“We rise by lifting others.”
ReplyDeleteLisa,
I want you to know that every time I was with you I felt lifted. You made the impossible seem possible, you lighten my mood with laughter, you saw me and my struggles, and I could feel how much you cared.
I remember the first day I met you. You walked into the studio with your lace-up hot pants, a stylized ball cap, and your looong legs. You had just moved up to attend BYU. I think it was your first teaching job in Utah County. I was only 14 and still pretty loyal to my previous teacher. I wasn’t sure how I felt about having a new one. Ha! Within that first class, my mind was blown open to the greatness that is Lisa! From there, it just got better. I remember when you got your job at The Dance Club and was worried that you would leave our small studio. Of course, you didn’t give up on us. You stuck with me until I graduated. I love you for that. While at the studio, we cried together when you had a miscarriage and were so, so thrilled when you were pregnant with Taelor (I can still see you yelling out instruction while eating saltines too sick to get out of the chair). I watched you gently and so kindly comfort another girl who was dealing with some really hard situations in life. You were her shoulder to cry on. You lifted her and, again, you lifted me.
At BYU, you couldn’t get rid of me. Thank you for letting me attend your class so much. It was my safe place (I mean, a person can only take so much critique from the ballet world ;). Thank you for working with me to start the Jazz Dance Club. Your encouragement meant the world to me. I remember being in your office one day, you had just put up a new family picture. I mentioned that I liked it. You beamed with pride telling me about your cute family and the picture. I could feel how much you loved them and how proud you were that they were yours. I remember your sweet, tiny, Taelor, dancing by me when you brought her to class. I remember the great Halloween costumes. I remember the laughter whenever you and your siblings were together.
I claim you, like thousand of others. You have such a huge portion of my heart. I feel so blessed that a person who lifted and inspired so many was my friend. Thank you for being my friend. Rise, girl, rise!
I love you,
Amber Ericksen Hall
I just wanted to share that Lisa was a person who I only knew by proxy. My wife and many of my friends had danced with her. I was a student at both ALA and BYU and so I know the deep impact she's had on so many people in my program. I only ever heard good things about her, and know that she always had the best interests of others at heart. I don't have any personal memories with her because we never met, but just like the ripples in a pond, her loss has resonated with me because of how many other people that I care about that it has affected. Sometimes it's just not fair when things like this happen, but I have great hope in life after death. One of the songs that consistently has been playing for me lately as I've pondered this has been this song "View from Heaven" by Yellowcard. I hope that those who listen to it feel truly that Lisa's view from Heaven is much better than ours down here, and I especially hope that her family is able to keep moving forward. From what little I do know of her, I know that she was an exceptionally uplifiting and motivating person and would want people to find beauty and meaning in this trying time. Here's a youtube link to that song. May God bless those who are closer to her than I, and may they feel His love for them and for Lisa any time they mourn her. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqgxOfmLeU0&feature=kp
ReplyDeleteLisa shaped me into the person I am today and will continue to do so long after this tragic event. Lisa was my coach, my mentor, my role model, and my friend. She taught me the meaning of hard work and dedication, she provided me with opportunities to learn and grow every single day. She was honest, kind, and pure. I have so many memories, too many to tell. A favorite memory is of Lisa pushing a stroller while holding and bouncing her other baby counting the music as loud as she could while we all sweated away. Even just that memory of her ability to multitask has led us all to become the wonderful women, dancers, coaches, mothers we have grown up to become. Lisa taught me to take life as it comes and to forgive yourself for your mistakes-always. Quick story, one basketball game our team was going out to perform at half-time and it happened to be the night all of my friends from high school, every member of my family was there -they all came to see me perform at my first college basketball game! I was so hyped up, I was on fire! 10 seconds into the routine, while I was front and center, I jumped a little too high and fell a lot too hard, then fell again when I tried to get back up! The routine finished, we ran off the floor, I was in tears and there in the corridor was Lisa waiting for me with that face she did, kind of a sympathy smirk that showed she could read your mind and knew exactly what to say. She hugged me and said no words until I was done crying while most likely directing the rest of the team off the court yelling silently (not sure how she did it, but you always knew exactly what she was saying-or yelling… Anyway, when I was done crying, I looked up at her and said "I am soo sorry!" Her response was... “Oh Tiff, that adrenaline will knock ya down every time until you learn to control it—so… learn to control it, ok? I said ok and turned away, she grabbed my shoulder and turned me back around so we were face to face again and said, “And Tiffany, never apologize for making an honest mistake, we all do it, we all fall and I promise, no one from your little cheer squad up in the bleachers care, they don't care! Now wipe your mascara and come introduce me to your parents" That lesson, amongst many others, stuck with me the rest of my life and I am blessed to have known her. Lisa, you will be with me, with all of us forever. Thank you for teaching us how to be committed; how to be amazing dancers; how to be kind and gracious; and most of all, how to be the wonderful dancers, coaches, mothers, wives, sisters, friends, we all have become. I am praying for your family, you will be truly missed.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite memories of Lisa revolve around Dr. Suess. I was a senior in high school (I think. Maybe a junior...) when Lisa was working on her MFA in Dance. It was all about Dr. Suess. My mom was her advisor, and thus she was at the house all the time working on her thesis. This opened the door to many, many discussions about Dr. Suess, and art in general. Though I was still in high school, she always treated me as a peer, and respected my insight as she discussed Dr. Suess's work, life, and philosophies in that setting. I admired her for that, and was grateful to be able to continue that association and friendship when I finally arrived at BYU. I frequented the dance department visiting my mom and my wife over the years, and greatly enjoyed the times I was able to connect with Lisa.
ReplyDeleteThese next comments are the responses I have collected from an email I sent out to BYU dance majors, Music Dance theatre majors, and faculty members. You can see in all these responses how much she was loved and impacted many lives.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lisa for always loving me. Thank you for teaching me to love unconditionally. Thank you for always pushing me and never allowing me to give less then what I am able. You always allowed me to be my crazy self and understanding my sense if humor.
ReplyDeleteThank you for all your love and support. My wife and I will miss you so much. I know that We will dance with you again.
Till we meet again.
Love Timothy Cooper
Lisa was an amazing person and I treasure the 20+ years that I have worked with her both in the private sector and at BYU. Lisa is a gentle, kind soul who made a giant impact on me and my life as a wonderful friend. She has touched innumerable lives with her teaching, with her example, and with the way that she truly valued the individual and everyone felt that who worked with her. The sudden loss of Lisa has left an empty place in my heart and an aching in my soul. I love her and will miss her—as she was an unmatched example of love and goodness.
ReplyDeleteShani Robison
Lisa was one of my greatest friends and mentors at BYU. I always knew she loved me and believed in me and my potential. She always encouraged me to be the best dancer I could be. She gave me the opportunity to teach jazz while I was an undergrad student. This was an incredible experience for me and taught me so much. Lisa did more than just inspire me in dance however. She shared her testimony through her actions and words, and inspired me to also become a disciple of Christ. She shared a spiritual thought on the last day of our advanced jazz class about our infinite worth. She related us to a dollar bill and no matter if the dollar gets stepped on, torn, dirty, it is still worth the whole dollar. Similarly, we are Heavenly Father's children and despite anything that may happen to us, we are always going to be His children with divine potential and worth. Her spiritual thought came at a time I really needed it in my life. And though it has been years since I heard it, I have always and will continue to always remember her sincere words and testimony. I love Lisa so much and am grateful for her example in dance, teaching, and discipleship. I will miss her greatly, but am comforted by the knowledge of the gospel that this life is not the end. Families can be together forever. Heavenly Father wants us to be happy, and this is how we reach eternal joy, with our families. Lisa is there, she made it back home and I cannot wait to be reunited with her. Thank you Lisa for everything you have done for me and the many ways you have inspired me! I hope to make you proud and I hope I can have your spirit with me helping me along the way. I love you!
ReplyDelete- Chiloe Alius Glazier
My first verbal encounter with Lisa was in rehearsal for MDT showcase of my freshman year. Us students were previewing the numbers for Gayle and Lisa the day before the opening. After the number "blackbird" finished, Lisa pulled me aside and whispered "It looks great, but there is some serious camel toe going on."
ReplyDeleteWeirdly enough, this slightly inappropriate instance encapsulates the Christlike work that Lisa did for me through the next three years of my schooling. She was funny, energetic and totally unafraid to tell her students how to improve, no matter how embarrassing, or awkward it was for either party. It's a truly selfless act to sacrifice your own comfort for the sake of another's improvement, and I am forever grateful for her christlike love and sacrifice.
-Alana Jeffery
I never had the opportunity to be mentored by her like many other students have. I did, however, get the opportunity to listen to her talk about her experience with dance and how she established such an outstanding resume. She expressed how much she loved dance and while she was attending school for dance she auditioned a lot. Her testimony was unwavering as she discussed what some of the auditions she attended asked of her. She said that long before she attended those auditions she knew why she danced and what she was going to portray on the stage. This gave her freedom as a performer to perform for the Lord. She knew she was going to bring light to the stage and share things with audiences that was going to take them to a place that they could be uplifted in the hands of the Lord. Not taken to places where the spirit was unwelcome. I have admired her since I heard her share this experience. She shared with me what our role as members of the church in art is. I have never forgotten this imprint she made in me.
ReplyDeleteI would also like to share that there have been many times in the dance department that we students get frustrated. Anytime I would talk about these frustrations with other students they said they were about to go talk to Lisa about it. This happened countless times. She listened to anyone who went knocking on her door. She opened her arms and offered love to anyone who sought it. Her light as a mentor and performer is truly of our Lord and Savior.
With Love,
Kathleen Christensen
The most meaningful memory I have of Lisa is the scripture she would always share with us on the opening night of shows. It is found in Isaiah 64:8.
ReplyDelete"O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand." Isaiah 64:8
She would then go on to explain that each of us has been given gifts, talents, and personalities that were hand crafted by our loving Father in Heaven. We are all masterpieces.
Lisa was a great teacher because she knew that each of her students had something unique to offer. I remember long rehearsals during Light in the Piazza and MDT Showcase where she would have us run choreography over and over again until it matched the vision she had in her head. She didn't do it to be bossy, she did it because she wanted audiences to see and appreciate the talent that she saw in each of us. She knew how to inspire and push us to be our very best.
I loved being in class with her. She appreciated storytelling, humor, dedication, and creativity. It was the best feeling when Lisa was impressed with your work, because you knew that you had really done something great.
In every dance class or audition I go to from now on, I will always be dancing for Lisa.
Amanda Van Orden
Though I only knew Lisa briefly I could see what kind of a woman she was. She hired me as a Jazz TA. Through the moments I got to work with her I could see she was always busy; she was a hard worker. She was always very sweet to me and willing to work with me. She loved her job and her students. Just by being in her office I could also see what kind of a sweet wife and mother she was. When I asked her about the pictures she had displayed of her family I could see in her eyes that you were her whole world. I could see how proud she was of all her children and how much she loved you. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lisa was very loved and will be deeply missed. She will never be forgotten. She left behind a lasting impact on countless students and faculty members and her legacy will live on.
ReplyDelete-Carly Jo Bitner
Dear Stoddard family,
ReplyDeleteHeaven has gained a truly remarkable angel. I personally did not know her but I have heard great things about her and amazing talent and gift of dance. She is always with you and will never leave your side. You are never alone. You all will see her again, and that is why I am so grateful for the Atonement that we all can be resurrected again & that families are together forever.
Sincerely,
Naomi Tanner
Sixteen years ago, I was a graduate student at the Department of Dance at BYU. I watched a dance piece in one of the dance concerts and immediately fell in love with a Jazz dance choreographed by Lisa Stoddard. I still remember the passion, excitement, and emotion behind the dance. It left a deep impression on me.
ReplyDeleteEven though I didn’t have the chance to take a class from her, I have learned a lot from her students, friends, and colleagues—that Lisa was a great teacher, talented choreographer, and lovely lady to all people who related with her. I enjoyed her beautiful smile when we encountered in the hallways of the Richards Building. I was jealous of those students who walked out of her Jazz technique class with red faces, profuse sweat, and satisfied expressions.
I will miss you, Lisa, but I know you will have love and happiness in Heaven forever!
Jiamin Huang
I remember her talking about her joy of sharing the love of dance with her daughters. She was so glad that she can go to competitions and dance shows and talk with her daughters about dance. I did not know Lisa personally, but I watched her interact with faculty and she always wanted them to know she cared about their lives and interests. I was blessed to see her that day for Junior High Students. She was so excited her daughter was going to take one of the classes.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lisa Stoddard
Brianne Burnham
I was in Lisa's jazz class for a ballet summer intensive at BYU last summer. She was radiant. I loved her class because she made it easy to remember why people dance. People dance for joy and that is exactly how she ran her class. I loved her choreography. She was so fun and sweet and I looked forward to having her. I remember she struck up a conversation with me because I knew some of her dancers from the Dance Club. She treated me so nicely and almost like family. At the end of each of her classes, she gave us all hugs. Even though I didn't know her very well, she did have an impact on me. I think in the short time I knew her she reminded me how fun and wonderful dance is. It is not just choreography, it is part of your soul and it should be enjoyed. She will be greatly missed. She was a wonderful person and I'm sure she is continuing to dance in heaven. Much love to the family,
ReplyDeleteErika Hubler
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ReplyDeletehttps://docs.google.com/file/d/0Byng6NDXtjiGam85S0hzMHNrd056VldwMHh1Z0RqU2xsakw4/edit
ReplyDeleteBy Dawnika Andrus
At the beginning of this last semester I wrote a paper on my personal dance philosophy. It
ReplyDeletewasn’t until now that I realized how much of an integral role Queen Stoddard played in shaping
me both as a dancer and as a person. She taught me to dance as I’d always dreamed, but with
her passing, what I suddenly miss most isn’t that. I miss her friendship. She was always so
interested in my life, and ready to hear about my strides towards the greatness she could see in
me. She called me a few days before the accident. She only had a small thing to tell me, but she
wasn’t quick with the call. She wanted to know about my life, and school, and work, and plans.
She didn’t want to lose the opportunity to lift my life and boost my day. Every experience with
her was like this. She really cared about me as an individual. She cared about everyone as
individuals.
READ THE REST AT https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Byng6NDXtjiGam85S0hzMHNrd056VldwMHh1Z0RqU2xsakw4/edit
Lisa Stoddard
ReplyDeleteThe first time I met Lisa was in 1996. I had heard Lisa this, or Lisa said that for a couple of weeks and wanted to see what the fuss was all about. She was doing some choreography on the Lehi Pionettes and my daughter, Steph, was on the team. She loved Lisa, and Lisa's name frequently came up in every conversation. My first memory of Lisa is legs that went for miles encased in knee high platformed black boots. She looked amazing. The I met her and she was so sweet, confident, and kind. Over the next 6 years she did choreography for drill and the dancers company at Lehi so both of my daughters benefited from her talents. Not too many years after that we met again when Steph tried out for the UVSC drill team. Lisa greeted her like she remembered her even though it had been years. That too was one of Lisa's talents. She made everyone she came in contact with feel special.
My next encounter with Lisa was when I started at BYU. I was so happy to see her there. We had many, many conversations over the ensuing 11 years. She became a dear, treasured friend. She never failed to mention how much she loved her children and Troy. Inevitably she would say, in reference to Troy, "he's so great". Lisa's children were her reason for everything she did. They were the life force that drove her. Lisa always looked for the positive even when times were hard. I knew of her unwavering testimony even when prayers weren't answered how or when she would have liked. She strengthened me, and will continue to be a light in my life.
My last two memories of Lisa occurred back to back. She was at work on Friday, April 25. She looked so beautiful. She was wearing a blue flowered dress and a pretty light blue sweater. Everyone told her how beautiful she looked. We talked for awhile. In typical Lisa fashion, though she couldn't have known, she was making sure everything would be completed before she left. I asked if she was working Spring - she did so much more than teach, so I wasn't sure. She said no, this was her time to be a mom, that she wasn't good at that other times of the year. I told her I knew that wasn't true, but I was excited she could have that time.
My last time with Lisa was at a competition at West High School the very next day. She didn't know I would be there, and I didn't know she would. We ended up sitting almost next to each other, but it was dark and I didn't see her. My youngest daughter, Debi, pointed her out. I was happy at the time that both of my daughters were there and got to talk with her. I am even more grateful now they got to see her. They both told her how influential she had been in their dance lives. Debi told Lisa how much she loved dancing for her and that Lisa was her favorite choreographer she had ever worked with. I was so happy then that Lisa had a chance to hear that because I know she sometimes suffered doubt about the contributions she was making to others. She told Lisa a funny story that illustrates Lisa's sphere of influence. When Debi was trying out for a scholarship at Snow several girls came up to her afterwards and said, we know you. Well Debi didn't know them. They went on to say, 'you were the one that did this and they moved their hands in the dance movement. It had been 2 years since they had performed that dance, but Lisa's choreography had that lasting impression. After visiting for 20-30 minutes I gave Lisa what turned out to be a last hug. I wished her well on her busy, busy next week and said "I'll see you soon." I had a feeling to find her before I left the competition, but as we all too often do figured I would see her again and we would have a better chance to talk then.
I prefer to remember Lisa as I saw her that day. Happy, smiling, so full of life planning and preparing, busy always busy. I look forward to seeing her again. We will have a lot of catching up to do.
JLene Willes
Lisa was my Jazz Instructor last semester. Even though it was at 8:00 a.m. I would take that class again in a heartbeat. I’ll never forget when she asked someone for a dollar bill, crumpled it up, jumped on it, and put a tear in it. She then taught us that even though the dollar bill had been worn down and beat on it is still worth the same amount. We, just like the dollar bill, will always have the same amount of worth in Heavenly Father’s eyes no matter what happens. She reminded us that we always have been and always will be a child of God. So when times get hard and we think we can’t make it through, we should think of that dollar bill and remember our infinite worth to God. I’ve thought about that experience throughout the past few months and will always be grateful to Lisa for the wonderful teacher she was and for touching my life.
ReplyDelete-Danielle Ashby
I have so many amazing memories of Lisa to reflect upon. From being in her classes, to late night rehearsals, and being one of her teaching assistants this past year. I feel like I really got to know Lisa in the last few months of her life and I am so grateful that I got to have talks with her about her passions in life: dance, her family, and the gospel. Lisa taught me so much in all of these areas, and she will be missed amongst every single person that was lucky enough to cross paths with her. Until we meet again.
ReplyDeleteTricia Zuskind
Lisa became my favorite teacher a BYU, because i felt like she saw what I could become. She reminded me of why I chose to dance and that I was capable of excelling. Honestly, I have never had a teacher believe in my like Lisa did. She was a beautiful human being. and she will be very deeply missed.
ReplyDelete-Claudia Oliva
Lisa is probably the only dance teacher I have ever had who really believed in me. She pushed me because she wanted me to excel. I didn't dance at all before coming to BYU but my very first semester she encouraged me to take advanced jazz. It was one of the hardest classes of my life! And I've taken her class 3 times since then! Lisa always took time outside of class to give me feedback that was helpful and constructive. When it comes to dance, she believes in me more than I believe in myself and I love that about Lisa. I'm so grateful I had the chance to learn from her for the past 4 years. I will never forget her kindness or the lessons I learned from her. I will always dance with her in my heart.
ReplyDeleteWhitney Uland
Lisa was my MDT faculty advisor and advanced Jazz teacher this past year, my first year away from home and my dance studio. I remember she took me aside during one of our first 7:30 AM jazz classes in the winter and told me that she knew what I was capable of and that nothing but my best would cut it. That she and others expected me to push myself and to continue to grow as a dancer and a performer. She constantly encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and take new risks. These reminders helped me to excel not only in dance, but to be a bolder and more confident person outside of the studio as well. Her guidance and love and time and amazing sense of humor has been such a blessing for me. I am so grateful to have known her and to have learned from her!!! I will continue to push myself everyday!!! I love you Lisa! Much love to the Stoddards and the Wrights
ReplyDeleteCassie Austin
had the privilege of taking advanced jazz with Lisa last winter semester. I had so much fun in her class and grew so much that she actually asked me to become a TA for her and eventually become a jazz teacher. To say I was excited is an understatement. Like you can tell from the many other responses, Lisa always believed in you. She was every individual's biggest fan and believed you could achieve anything. It was my first year away from home and many aspects of that were challenging for me. Lisa, being an incredible mom and teacher, reminded me of not only my dance teachers at home but also my own loving mother, which came me comfort during challenging days. Lisa's sense of humor was contagious and everyone would be smiling or laughing alongside her during class. Though she pushed you hard, she also was kind and loving, which made the class the perfect mix. I love Lisa and think she is an incredible woman with so much heart and love. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to know her and know I will see her again. Thanks for the support and encouragement you gave me Lisa. Til we meet again.
ReplyDeleteAubree Monson
Lisa had this presence about her that really made me want to improve. She always had personal, specific feedback, and she was so good at pushing you past what you think is impossible. Lisa helped me realize my true potential. She had so much faith in me and my talent, and I know she felt that way about her other students too. I learned so much from her not just as a teacher, but as a mentor. She helped me see that I really want to become a professional dancer. She helped me realize more than anyone that it is possible to reach your dreams if you put forth the effort. She also never sugar coated anything, and I love that. She was real. I'm so grateful for the strength she gave me and for her amazing contributions to BYU's Dance Department. She is definitely missed, but she leaves a legacy. Her mission on earth was complete, but all of us will take the lessons that we've learned from her with us for the rest of our lives.
ReplyDeleteHeidi Jorgensen
Lisa and I have shared a little office in the RB for about five years. How I will manage to be in it without her I have no idea. She was so kind, so down to earth, so good at telling students exactly what they needed to know straight up, on the table, no regrets. I was so lucky to have many little conversations everyday, hear her insights, watch her balance her life with such amazing strength. If somehow I would have known a year ago, that I would have a newborn baby (we have a ten year gap) and she would have passed from this life I am sure I would not believe it. I don't want to write about her memory, I want to see her sitting in her chair at her desk, working on her computer, looking up and smiling, saying hello and taking time to chat even when she had a class in five minutes and she didn't really have the time. I remember her talking to her husband on the phone and saying, "I love you" and I could tell by her voice that she really did. I love her laugh, I can hear it still and see her kind, fierce eyes. Lisa is the toughest, nicest person I have ever known. She was a beautiful choreographer, teacher, mother, mentor, and friend.
ReplyDeleteLove Always,
Rebecca Lewis