About Us: The Glover Arts Foundation

The Glover Arts Foundation was created to honor the life and legacy of Catherine L. Glover, a woman whose love, faith, and commitment shaped not only her family but also the artistic journey of her great‑granddaughter, Laquangela “Quan Serita” Lester, Artistic Director of Symphony Q Academy of Dance.

 

Born and raised in Opelika, Alabama, Catherine Glover embodied service and sacrifice. Married to Reverend Glover in the late 1960s, she became a steadfast presence in her church and community. She served as head of the Seniors’ Ministry at Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church and as a member of the Opelika Housing Authority Community Advisory Board, dedicating her life to helping others. Beyond her community roles, she lovingly cared for her family, hand‑sewing dresses, guiding her great‑grandchildren in faith, and encouraging their dreams.

 

When a young Quan expressed a desire to dance, Catherine made sure that dream was nurtured. She enrolled her in classes at Nix Dance Studios in Opelika under Gwen Nix, faithfully transporting her to ballet, tap, and jazz lessons each week. These simple but powerful acts of encouragement sparked a passion for dance that grew into a lifelong career. Today, Quan leads Symphony Q Academy of Dance, and it is in Catherine’s honor that the Glover Arts Foundation exists—to ensure that no child’s potential is limited by financial barriers.

 

The mission of the Glover Arts Foundation is clear: to provide scholarships, financial assistance, and opportunities for dancers who may otherwise be excluded from training due to lack of resources. Through tuition support, dancewear assistance, exposure to workshops and intensives, and community partnerships, we strive to keep the doors of the arts open for all.

 

By aligning with Symphony Q Academy of Dance, the foundation not only supports the growth of individual dancers but also uplifts the broader community, reflecting Catherine Glover’s lifelong devotion to faith, service, and opportunity. Her legacy reminds us that love is shown through action—whether in a hand‑sewn dress, a ride to a dance class, or a scholarship that gives a child the chance to step into the studio for the first time.

 

The Glover Arts Foundation is here because Catherine Glover believed in opening doors. Our mission is to keep them open—for every dancer, for every dream.