The Tara Gladden Scholarship Fund was created in memory of my cousin, Tara Gladden who was tragically taken from us at just 15 years old. Tara was bright, talented, and full of life — but like so many young people, she struggled to see her own worth. Her story is a painful reminder of how important it is to help young people recognize their strength, trust their voice, and believe in their own value.

In the years since her passing, I’ve made it my mission through EMC Performing Arts Studio (EMC) to help every student who walks through our doors feel confident, capable, and proud of who they are. The Tara Gladden Scholarship Fund is one way we keep that promise — by providing financial assistance to dancers who demonstrate commitment, passion, and heart.

Since 2020, the Wiencek family has donated over $6,000 in scholarships to EMC dancers, opening doors for students who wish to pursue summer study and other opportunities that help them grow as artists and as people.

Your contribution to the Tara Gladden Scholarship Fund helps continue this legacy. Giving young dancers the chance to train, perform, and discover their true potential in a safe, supportive environment.

Together, we can honor Tara’s life by helping young dancers develop confidence, courage, and a lasting sense of self-worth.

Thank you for keeping Tara’s light shining through the next generation of EMC dancers.