Misty Copeland is known for many accomplishments. Among them is becoming the first Black woman to be named principal ballerina at the world-renowned American Ballet Theatre in New York City.

During her visit to Dallas, she talked about how there is still so much work to be done.

“These kids are just incredible. It’s overwhelming to see them in this space and having this opportunity,” Copeland said. “It was so exciting and thrilling to come into classical ballet. But at the same time, when I was doing that, there weren’t many people who looked like me. There was a lot of feeling alone. I’m thrilled that I can just be in their presence and in some way show them that they can do just what I did.”

She made a stop in North Texas to visit St. Philip’s School and Community Center and be the keynote speaker at their annual Destiny Luncheon. It’s a 26-year tradition for the school, putting a spotlight on African Americans, who have left an indelible mark on their craft.

For the first decade of her time at ABT, she was the only Black woman in the company. It is a realization, she said, that pushed her even further to ensure she helped the next group of dancers see representation.

Copeland retired from the stage in October of 2025, but she said she has just begun with her work outside of the theater. She’s a mother, a published author, and so much more, and she said she is now devoted to the next generation.

“I will forever do this work. I believe that we can be better. I believe that this art form can be more accepting and more diverse,” Copeland said.

During her more than 20-year career, she said she was forced to stay mentally and physically on point. She called it both exhausting and rewarding. And the challenges continue. She recently had hip replacement surgery… but is not letting that slow her down from moving forward and helping children chase dreams that some of them, may not even know they have.

“I didn’t grow up in an environment that fostered confidence. When it came to dance, I felt in control of myself and my own body, and there was something that was so empowering about that. When I was on stage, that was the safest I felt. That’s a feeling I want more children to have. It’s about access,” Copeland said.

Through the Misty Copeland Foundation, which was founded in 2021, Copeland and others are working to bring diversity to the dance stage. They offer introductory ballet programs designed for kids and made available to make ballet more accessible and affordable.