Misty Copeland is a renowned American ballet dancer who made history in 2015 when she became the first Black woman to be promoted to the rank of principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Copeland began her dance training at a young age in a community center in San Pedro, California, and later trained at the San Francisco Ballet School and the American Ballet Theatre's Summer Intensive. She joined the ABT as a member of the corps de ballet in 2001 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a soloist in 2007 and a principal dancer in 2015. Copeland is known for her powerful and elegant performances, as well as her ability to bring a contemporary edge to traditional ballet roles. In addition to her performances. Copeland is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the ballet world, and has used her platform to inspire and mentor young dancers of color #blackhistorymonth #blackwhistlr #pbs #blackwomen #mistycopeland