Diane Rawlinson

Diane Rawlinson holds a degree in Dance Education from Ohio State, MFA from UW-Madison, and was a faculty member at Northwestern University, UW- Stevens Point, and University of Akron.  She is currently a faculty member at Loyola University mentoring a cohort of educators through the Chicago Public School System.   Diane was the dance and yoga teacher at Wheeling High School (IL) teaching dance, yoga, fitness, and InterPlay from 1991 until her retirement June of 2021.  A writer/editor/advisory board member for Dance Spirit/Dance Teacher magazines from 1997 to present,  she was named NDA Midwest Dance Educator, 2007 UW-Madison School of Education Distinguished Alumni award winner,  2019 Illinois Teacher of the Year Meritious Award, and 2014 Ruth Page Award winner in Chicago. She has presented student and educator workshops at state, national, and international conferences including: International InterPlay Conference (TN and CA), Illinois State Theatre Festival, National HS Dance Festival (PA and FL), Dance Teacher Magazine Conference (NYC), NDEO Conference (IL and CA), Gibney Dance Center (NYC), Hubbard Street Professional Development Institute, and Bill Evans Somatics Conference (NY).

Diane began studying yoga in 1996 as a way to integrate wellness activities with her dance experience. She incorporates the strength and flexibility components of yoga into her classes while focusing on the importance of balance, focus, relaxation, and deep breathing in every day life.  She  started studying Pilates in the early 80's..when it was specialized in the dance community.   Diane has mentored over 35 former students and student teachers in their roles and capacities as dance, yoga, fitness, and artistic professionals.   Is a registered E-RYT 300 with Yoga Alliance with additional certification in Meditation, Kids Yoga, Restorative, Breathwork, and Yin Yoga.   Diane created the district based full semester long yoga/mindful movement curriculum which is now available in al 6 high schools in the district