Misty Copeland

Misty Danielle Copeland (born September 10, 1982) is an American ballet dancer for American Ballet Theatre (ABT). She made history on June 30, 2015, by becoming the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in ABT's 75-year history. Despite starting ballet at the age of 13, Copeland quickly rose to stardom and gained recognition as a prodigy. In 1998, she faced a custody battle between her ballet teachers, who were her custodial guardians, and her mother. Copeland emerged victorious and continued her dance journey under a new teacher, who happened to be a former ABT member. Her talent was acknowledged with numerous awards, including the Los Angeles Music Center Spotlight Award in 1997.