UNCSA celebrates 60 years

This fall, UNCSA proudly celebrates 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.

As we honor six decades of artistry and innovation, we look ahead with excitement—continuing to nurture the next generation of creative leaders.