Q+A

Here are some FAQ's about why we have changed our name.

First, view a video about where we got the inspiration for our name.  Click Here to Watch!

What does the name “The Wooden Floor” mean?

The Wooden Floor, with the added tag line: From here, you can step anywhere, was chosen as a metaphor for the foundation the organization provides to thousands of young people. It honors their connection to the dance floor where through daily practice they learn self-awareness, confidence and discipline. Each day the wooden floor beneath their feet supports their journey towards a brighter future.

Why was the name changed?

The renaming has been considered by the organization’s Board of Directors and Founder for many years because there was a sense that the name no longer represented the scope of the organization, as well as put forth misconceptions. This was affirmed by a marketing research study. The formal process commenced in 2005, when Saint Joseph Ballet’s Strategic Plan outlined the desire for an in-depth assessment of the way the organization is perceived by its public. A capacity-building grant from the James Irvine Foundation, as well as a subsequent grant from the Weingart Foundation allowed for the funding of this research. 

Who was involved with the name change process?

The name change process was spearheaded by the Board of Directors, with close involvement with Saint Joseph Ballet leadership as well as Saint Joseph Ballet’s founder, Beth Burns. Consulting firms, such as Rogers and Cowan, Anonymous LLC, The Pickle Group, and Punto Mandarina, were also contributors in several phases of this project.

How did you include the community’s feedback in choosing a name?

Through the two research projects, a wide sampling of stakeholders were polled via surveys and focus groups. The feedback as to what the organization represented to our stakeholders was directly translated into the new name, and what it represents.

What does the logo represent?

The first thing you may notice about the new logo is the dancing figure makes reference to our original logo. This reiterates the fact that our mission and spirit will remain the same. We honor Saint Joseph Ballet’s admirable history as we usher in a bright future. The words “The Wooden Floor” on the logo design serve as the springboard from which the dancer is ready to “step anywhere.” Also, the top portion of the dancer is left up to the imagination, as symbolism for the idea that with the collective support of our board, supporters, staff and parents; students that graduate from The Wooden Floor finally have the tools to break the cycle of poverty and can step anywhere they can dream of.

Will the mission or services change?

Our name is all that is changing. We remain a strong organization with the same mission. The students who are part of our family, and the friendly faces they see in our education center, dance studios and counseling room will be there to support them.  The programs will continue to advance as they have for 26 years.

What will this name change mean for Alumni?

Our Alumni will continue to be our greatest source of pride.  They will have the same support in their annual scholarships, supplemental aid awards, and mentoring they have always received from our staff, supporters, and volunteers. We hope that they will continue to stay in touch and know that “their second home” is always here for them.

Why not call it __________?

The Board of Directors chose a name that was deliberately designed to be relevant, solve misconceptions put forth by the previous name, and have room for symbolic interpretation. Many approaches and options were thoroughly considered, from descriptive names, such as the Santa Ana Academy of Dance, to made-up names, like Momentia. We knew that our new name had to be poetic, meaningful, and interesting, just like our organization.

What if I am attached to the name Saint Joseph Ballet?

Many of us who have known the organization for years are attached to the name Saint Joseph Ballet. The name Saint Joseph Ballet is a big source of pride for our students, alumni, staff, and supporters. It has served us well for many years, and speaks to our history with the Sisters of Saint Joseph. It is that same passion for serving youth in need that led to this change, supported thorough research, with the purpose of being able to move forward with boldness.

How does the founder Beth Burns feel about the new name?

She loves it and feels it is a good move for the organization she formed and led for 22 years. Beth was very involved in the name change and logo creation process.

How did Saint Joseph Ballet get its name in the first place?

The organization was founded in 1983 by Beth Burns, who at the time was a Nun with the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Orange. Beth, a former dancer, was supported by the Sisters to start a five week summer dance program at the Saint Joseph School for low-income youngsters. The goal was to instill a sense of self-esteem in the children and provide an alternative to drug use and gangs.

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