The City of Tampa is honoring Judith Baizan, a 100-year-old dance instructor who has contributed to the city’s Parks and Recreation centers for over five decades. Baizan has either participated in or led folk dance classes during her time with the department.
Mayor Jane Castor commented on Baizan’s influence, stating, “Judith is not just helping herself, she’s setting herself up as an inspiration for all of us. I’ve had the pleasure to meet so many active people in our community, and I keep thinking that I hope I will be this active and look this wonderful.”
Born in Michigan in 1925, Baizan discovered international folk dancing in the 1940s. After relocating to Tampa in 1971, she became involved with local recreation centers and began teaching dance at Forest Hills. Her efforts have helped foster a sense of community among seniors in the area.
Nina Acevedo, Kate Jackson Site Supervisor, highlighted Baizan’s impact: “Judith has truly been an impactful force in the community. Her love and passion to teach the art of Scandinavian and Folk Dance has kept the craft alive. We know her time teaching with the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department will reverberate through generations.”
