Professor of Dance, Department of World Arts and Cultures, and Director, Center for Intercultural Performance

Mitoma, a Southern California native, was already the mother of a young son when she received her B.A. in dance from UCLA in 1970; she had her daughter while attending graduate school at the University of Hawaii. Mitoma began work at UCLA as a lecturer in 1975, immediately after earning an M.A. here.

What is your favorite journey?
To go to a place I have never been before, to not know anybody at that place, to rely on my skills at being human and, as a result, to unravel the mysteries of another culture.

What is the best thing about working at UCLA?
We have the privilege to be lifelong learners.

Which living person do you most admire?
His Holiness the Dalai Lama, for his ability to communicate profound spiritual teaching in direct and accessible language and his commitment to peace, understanding and universal responsibility.

What is your greatest achievement?
Raising two children as a single parent.