Dr. Laura Thomason, assistant professor of English at Macon State, is one of the 'pros' featured on Dancing Stars of Central Georgia, a fundraising event for the Alzheimer's Association. The event showcases 10 local celebrity dancers paired with 10 professional dancers, all raising funds in a 10-week event that will culminate in the live competition on Saturday, May 12, at the City Auditorium during a glitz filled evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing.

Thomason's husband, Daniel Boudreault, is also one of the Dancing Stars pros.

A second-generation midwesterner, Thomason studied ballet and jazz from grade school through college, began figure skating in her late 20s, and took up ballroom dancing in 2006 when she relocated to Macon. She competes at the silver level in American Smooth and American Rhythm styles with her husband. She continues to train in ballet and modern dance as well as ballroom. As a member of the English faculty at Macon State, Thomason specializes in 18th-century British literature.

Thomason's 'star' dancer is Jackson 'Jack' Walker, an actor who lives in Dublin.  He graduated in 1986 from Trinity Christian School and Auburn University School of Architecture in 1992. He began his career in the entertainment industry in 1993 working on the first independent feature film of acclaimed director, Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Jumper). Since then he has worked in a wide variety of industry roles such as set design, production design, acting and directing in over 50 national commercials, television series and independent films. Walker is also known for his varied work with different charities.

On May 12, Thomason and Walker will perform for the audience and judges and will compete for two awards: the 'Judge’s Choice' for the most entertaining dance number and the 'People’s Choice' for the top fundraiser.

"The real goal is to raise as much money as possible for this cause," Thomason said. "I feel lucky that my life has not yet been touched by Alzheimer’s, but through my involvement with this event I’ve become all too aware that that could change at any time.  We need resources for better care, treatments, and eventually a cure.  I am really honored to have been asked to participate; Jackson is a great guy - and quite a good dancer! - and I am having a wonderful time knowing I am doing good by doing what I love, not unlike teaching at Macon State, come to think of it."

Macon State students, faculty and staff who want to support Thomason can go to www.dancingstarsofcentralgeorgia.com. Click on  'Vote for Jackson Walker' to see a rehearsal video and make donations. Tickets for the May 12 event can also be purchased on the site.

Photo credit: Bob Morgan.

Tagged With: