Nova Rae Gaffney, began her training at Sussex Dance Academy in her home state of Delaware, before joining The School of First State Ballet Theatre in 2016. Miss Gaffney’s studies also include summer courses with Pennsylvania Ballet, Ballet West, Burklyn Ballet Theatre, and others. During her training, Nova was honored to have received numerous scholarships and awards including scholarships from The Diane Drulis Foundation, Philadelphia Youth Dance Festival, The Priscilla Payson Foundation, New York City Dance Alliance, and in 2018 was awarded the “Artistry Award” from the Delaware Dance Festival. Some of Nova’s other awards include 4th place at National Ballet Competition 2018, Top 24 at YAGP 2018, and alongside her peers at The School of First State Ballet Theatre, the honor of receiving top 12 at YAGP finals NYC, and 1st place at World Ballet Competition 2018 with their ensemble. Most recently, in June of 2022 she had the honor of returning to World Ballet Competition as a Soloist. Miss Gaffney’s Professional career has so far include two season with First State Ballet Theatre, and two seasons with New York State Ballet. This will be Nova’s first season dancing with Central Illinois Ballet and she is very excited for the journey to come!