07-04-2025
Kilgore College renames dance studio to honor Rangerettes' first choreographer
KILGORE, Texas (KETK) — Kilgore College held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sunday evening to celebrate the dance studio newly named after the first choreographer of the world-famous Kilgore Rangerettes.
The Kilgore College dance studio now named the Denard Haden Dance Studio, honors the legacy of the uncle of Priscilla 'Prissy' Abshier Sliva and the first choreographer for the Rangerettes.
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'A visionary in dance, Haden played a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive Rangerette style that is recognized worldwide,' Kilgore College said.
Haden taught thousands of students through his dance studios across East Texas as a choreographer and instructor helping dance become a vital part of academic and performance settings.
Former Rangerette and lifelong supporter of Kilgore College, Sliva dedicated her generous donation to the newly renovated and renamed studio to honor her 'uncle's extraordinary contributions to the world of dance.'
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The Denard Haden Dance Studio is located at 701 Laird Avenue inside the James M. Parks Fitness Center.
According to Kilgore College, Haden was born in 1908 in Timpson and discovered his passion for dance while he attended Rice University. He quickly became an assistant dance instructor and later expanded his expertise to Stephen F. Austin State University where he majored in English.
'Haden's love for dance led him to establish studios in Nacogdoches, Lufkin, Henderson, Kilgore and Marshall, where he trained thousands of students,' Kilgore College said. 'In 1940, he became the first choreographer of the Kilgore College Rangerettes, collaborating with Gussie Nell Davis to develop the team's precise, high-energy style. His choreography, terminology, and teaching methods set the foundation for modern drill teams nationwide.'
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Beyond Kilgore, Haden also helped form the dance department at SFA, choregraphed musicals and served as a nationally recognized instructor for Dance Masters of America.
'Haden's influence remains woven into the legacy of the Rangerettes and dance education,' the college said. 'His meticulous approach to choreography and performance continues to inspire generations of dancers.'
Sliva was born in Kilgore in 1937 but was raised in Nacogdoches where 'she developed a strong entrepreneurial spirit from an early age, selling pecans and bookmarks in her community.'
'Sliva's lifelong love for the Rangerettes began in childhood, as she eagerly listened to her uncle's stories about the team,' Kilgore College said. 'Her dream came true when she became a Rangerette, even performing with the team at Soldier Field in Chicago before officially joining.'
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She continues to be a dedicated advocate for Kilgore Rangerettes and the lasting impact it has on dance and leadership.
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