Posted 12:06 am Thursday, February 09, 2012
Ex-Apache Belle Picked To Lead College's Precision Dance Team
By EMILY GUEVARA
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Jasilyn Schaefer loved the Apache Belles so much she volunteered with them for several years before taking on a full-time position three years ago.
Now she gets to lead the organization that she said has shaped her life and continue to build on its strong foundation.
Tyler Junior College on Wednesday named Mrs. Schaefer the new director of the 65-year-old precision dance team.
Mrs. Schaefer, a former Belle herself, has been the interim director since Ruth Flynn retired last year after 27 years of service.
TJC President Dr. Mike Metke said in a prepared statement that the college conducted an extensive search and asked many people advice about who should lead the organization.
"It always overwhelmingly came back to Jasilyn," Metke said, according to the statement. "The Apache Belles have a long, proud tradition at Tyler Junior College, and I have no doubt that Jasilyn Schaefer is the right choice, the only choice, for this position."
Over the years, the Belles have made quite a name for themselves performing for U.S. presidents and at college football bowl games, Dallas Cowboys games and overseas, among many other locations and events.
Dr. Johnny Moore, TJC's vice president of student affairs, said the precision dance team has become the trademark and public face of the college in addition to being an organization that sets the school apart.
"We understand what a valuable asset we have in Jasilyn and the Apache Belles and have seen first-hand the types of alumni this group produces," he said. "I'm confident that as director, Jasilyn will continue the Belles tradition for many years to come."
Mrs. Schaefer holds an associate's degree in fine arts (dance) from TJC along with bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Texas at Tyler, according to the statement.
A former graduate assistant and administrative assistant of the Apache Belles, she also worked as a director of the Texas Tech Gunfire Kickline.
Mrs. Schaefer said directing the Belles is much more than a job or a title, it's her passion.
"I believe completely in what the Apache Belle experience gives each young lady who lives it, and I intend with every fiber of my being to continue to preserve and build upon the foundation that has been established since 1947," she wrote in a prepared statement.
Mrs. Schaefer praised her predecessor and mentor Ms. Flynn.
"Directing this team for 27 years is an astounding accomplishment," Mrs. Schaefer said. "I only pray that I lead with the wisdom and grace that she has exuded during her time at the helm of the Apache Belle program."
