Delight Lester has been an adaptive movement specialist and instructor for 30 years. She is also a licensed social worker – training and experience that makes her uniquely aware of the needs of the whole person. She understands the importance of self-expression and confidence, especially for the disabled, and how the creative arts can meet these goals.

Since age 16, Delight has taught movement, drama and music to all ages and abilities through schools, community theater and studio offerings internationally. At 19, she began teaching at the Far Conservatory of the Therapeutic and Performing Arts in Birmingham, Michigan. She has performed in, choreographed, written and/or directed numerous productions. As a cultural representative for the State of Michigan, she has begun and improved creative arts programs in Belize and the Dominican Republic, where her work inspired a national declaration in support of therapeutic arts.

Delight’s work as a certified Head Start disability compliance consultant and for the Grand Rapids-based Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp has furthered her inspiration and qualification to provide artistic recreation for the physically, mentally and emotionally challenged.

In summer 2005, she began her own studio, Arts in Motion Studio, where she continues to offer an expanding class selection for physically, emotionally and mentally challenged children and adults. 

Delight knows first hand the benefits and enjoyment of the creative arts. She is an accomplished artist in many disciplines: dance, vocal music, painting, writing, acting and directing, and instrumental music. She enjoys experiencing and sharing the sounds and movements of many cultures, and these inspirations are evident in her work and teaching.

It is no wonder that her home also reflects these passions, where she heads her bicultural family of five children.  As much happiness and reward as she finds in teaching and performing, these five children are her greatest joy.