Auburn Swing Dance Association President Matthew Stinson shares his knowledge and love for this small, yet passionate group on campus.
The Swing Dance Association was first introduced to Auburn in 1997 when a group of six people was inspired to learn the art after watching the Gap Khaki Swing Commercial. Thus began the revival of swing in the 90s. Today the organization claims 20 dues-paying members, where they meet each week at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center for social swing dancing lessons.
Stinson is a senior from Summerdale, Alabama, majoring in Horticulture, and is also the president of the organization. He said that his interest in swing dancing began about five years ago while he was still in high school.
“Honestly, the first thing that drew me to swing dancing was that I wanted to impress my girlfriend by taking her on a fun date back while we were in high school,” Stinson said. “Now, I continue to dance because of the exciting, unique, and at times challenging nature of the Lindy Hop,”.
A point Stinson wanted to emphasize was that even though swing may be challenging at times, it shouldn’t be a reason for people not to try, because anyone can learn.
Throughout his time in the organization, Stinson mentioned that something that really stood out to him not just while he was president, but during the entire time he’s been in the association, was the bond formed between the members in the club.
“We focus on teaching people how to social dance with a partner. To do that successfully, you have to be open to new ideas,” said Stinson. “There is nothing more exciting than dancing with someone you have never met and working together to make that particular dance unique and fun,”.
As for the future of the organization, Stinson said that he hopes the swing dance association will become more involved with other clubs on campus. He also mentioned how the purpose of swing dancing is that it is a social dance and that it is important to be connected with the people around you.
“I understand this may come off as overly serious, or like I am making things more than they seem, but it is really more than ‘just swing dancing’. It seems as if many people know of swing dancing on Auburn’s campus, but few people actually know how to do it,” said Stinson.
Stinson mentioned that if anyone has questions, they can either contact the organization through their Facebook page, through AU involve or through email at auburnswing@gmail.com
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
