UNCSA celebrates 60 years

In 2025, UNCSA celebrated the 60th anniversary of opening its doors in 1965 as the nation’s first public arts conservatory. What began with 229 students in the renovated Gray High School has grown into a world-class training ground for artists.

The school’s beginnings were made possible by extraordinary community support, including the 1964 “Dial for Dollars” campaign that raised nearly $1 million to secure UNCSA’s home in Winston-Salem. Since then, traditions like "The Nutcracker" have flourished, and generations of alumni have gone on to transform stages, screens and studios around the world.

The 60th anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on six decades of artistry, innovation and community — and on the people and moments that have shaped UNCSA into the institution it is today.