Elise Larsen, MA, R-DMT (Registered Dance/Movement Therapist), is the Executive Director at Special Gifts Theatre. She joined the organization in 2011 and served as teacher, choreographer, and site supervisor prior to becoming Executive Director in 2017. As Executive Director, Elise is responsible for overseeing the organization’s administration, fundraising, and programs and has sustained and grown the inclusive theatre organization through the Covid-19 pandemic. Elise earned a BFA degree in Dance from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and an MA in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago. When she’s not working, Elise enjoys spending time outside with her husband and three children.