At their meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 13, City Council presented Dawn Schulberg with the 2025 Spirit of Prior Lake Award.

For more than 30 years, Schulberg shaped the lives of young dancers in Prior Lake, building a legacy that reaches far beyond the studio. She started teaching dance locally in 1992 and in 2003 opened Premiere Dance Academy, which has grown into one of the area’s most respected youth arts organizations. In another milestone, Schulberg became the first woman to build a commercial building in downtown Prior Lake, marking her as a trailblazer in both the arts and local business.

Throughout her career, Schulberg’s mission has remained constant: to educate, encourage participation in the arts, and help children build confidence through dance. Under her leadership, Premiere Dance Academy has been nominated for Business of the Year and is widely recognized for its strong commitment to community service. Among her most meaningful initiatives is the creation of a local chapter of Darby’s Dancers, a nonprofit that provides dance opportunities for children with special needs. All costs for the program are covered by Premiere.

Named after Cora B. McQuestion, the city’s first female mayor, the Spirit of Prior Lake Award honors individuals whose selfless actions make a lasting positive impact on the community.