Twenty-six dancers have much to be thankful for this week, as Costume Gallery's Beverly Miller Scholarships are announced. The 2012 winners were selected from hundreds of applicants, based, in part, on their 120 word essays. The winners, ages 12-21, discussed how they would use the funds to further their dance studies. Each described their passion for the art and their desire to excel. Winnings will be used to attend dance intensives, summer programs, and pay for additional lessons.

There was huge excitement the day before Thanksgiving as Costume Gallery staff contacted the teachers of the winning students, asking that they call the winners with the good news. There were tears of joy from coast to coast.

Each recipient will receive $500 and Brianna Russell, from Briarwood Ballet in Birmingham, Alabama won the $1,000 prize. Brianna discussed how she seeks to instill self-confidence in the younger dancers she instructs. She intends to "change the world, one pirouette at a time."

For a full list of 2012 Beverly Miller Scholarship recipients, please see below, or visit the company's Facebook page.

Over the past five years Costume Gallery has awarded $57,000 to enable worthy students to pursue their dance education.

Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all the teachers who encourage these and countless other dedicated dancers every day!