Murray Howell boasts a vast blend of artistic and administrative contributions but is anything but boastful.  From the front of the studio to Camp Oselia, to the smoky bingo halls of old, Murray Howell was an unassuming leader in Shumka for over 15 years.

It is said that leaders inspire others by evoking feelings in their followers, and as an artistic leader in Shumka, Murray Howell knew how to push dancers and instigate progress, while remaining highly encouraging and supportive of their growth.  He helped others find within themselves, an intrinsic desire to continually improve and reach their potential. Murray often set the pace in the studio, remaining focused on concrete goals that were set for him, the Artistic team and the rest of the company.  He led with a sharp sense of humour. Helping the company to reach its goals while keeping the rehearsal room “light” was indeed his superpower.

Murray contributed administratively on the dancer-led Executive as Merchandise Director and Media & Website Director, along with 8 glorious years as Shumka’s last Bingo Director.  He was so committed to that position that he even sat on the Riviera Bingo Association board, to help pursue and protect Shumka’s financial interests during some rocky financial times.  Murray then devoted 7 years to the USD Foundation, including 3 terms as its President, where he collaborated with other board members on agreements for all HR positions, touring and producer contracts, and budgeting for the organization.

Murray was a senior instructor at Shumka School for over a decade and has long been an avid supporter of Shumka School Summer Dance Camps, for which he held the roles of instructor, counsellor and director over many years.  Murray teaches dance throughout urban and rural Alberta, where his dedication to his students has been obvious. His reach into these communities has been integral to the recruitment of new dancers to Summer Camp and to Shumka itself for many years.