Kahina Haynes has been the driving force as Executive Director of the Dance Institute Of Washington since 2016, establishing herself as a passionate advocate for the arts. She is recognized as the visionary leader behind one of Washington, D.C.’s most impactful models for fostering equity in community health, development, and positive outcomes for individuals through dance. The Dance Institute of Washington, under Haynes’ direction, employs a comprehensive and innovative approach, utilizing its platform to educate, develop, and promote practices that actively address long-standing disparities within the dance industry.
Following the passing of the Dance Institute of Washington’s esteemed Founder, Fabian Barnes, Haynes expertly navigated a strategic revitalization of the organization. This transformative period saw the introduction of groundbreaking and inclusive program designs, a landmark federal funding appropriation of $1 million secured from the U.S. Congress, and a significant, multi-phase renovation of the flagship facilities. These advancements have enabled the Dance Institute of Washington to broaden its reach and deepen its impact on the community, currently serving 44,000 families.
Prior to her influential role at the Dance Institute of Washington, Haynes cultivated a rich background in organizational development, process evaluation, and strategic planning. Her extensive experience includes collaborations with numerous prestigious philanthropic and multilateral organizations, such as the United Nations (Bureau for Development Policy at UNDP), the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, SafeKids Worldwide, the World Bank Group, and the U.S. Department of State.
Haynes’ commitment to social justice and impactful leadership has garnered significant recognition. She was honored by the National Black Voices for Black Justice Fund as a 2022 award recipient for her dedicated work in confronting structural and systemic racism. Additionally, she received the David Bradt Non-profit Leadership Award in 2021, further highlighting her exceptional contributions to the non-profit sector. Kahina Haynes holds a B.A. from Princeton University, with a Minor in African American Studies and a concentration in Dance, complemented by an MSC from Oxford University in Evidence-based Social Intervention, showcasing her deep expertise and commitment to data-driven social impact.
For speaking engagements or press interviews with Kahina Haynes, a leading voice in dance and social equity, please reach out via email at [email protected].
