In Memoriam: Francis Wessells, 1919-2024

Francis Wessells, associate professor emerita and founder of the department of dance and choreography at Virginia Commonwealth University, passed away on December 31. She was 105 years old.

In addition to her work at Virginia Commonwealth University, Professor Wessells’ background in academia included teaching positions with the University of Richmond and Sweet Briar College, a liberal arts college for women in Virginia. She frequently served as a choreographer for local and regional theaters and wrote for the Richmond Times-Dispatch as a dance critic for more than two decades.

“During her many years with the department of dance and choreography, Frances inspired countless students, colleagues and community members — building a legacy of creativity and collaboration,” said Carmenita Higginbotham, dean of the VCU School of the Arts. “Her contributions continue to resonate within VCUarts. Frances Wessells was an inspiration, and we are profoundly grateful for the impact she has had on the school, the university and the Richmond arts community.”

A native of Colorado, Professor Wessells earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Denver. She received her master’s degree in dance from New York University.