Fall 2025 office hours: W 11:30-12:30, F 10-12, and by appointment

Andrea Conger is an associate professor of anthropology, dance, and gender and sexuality studies, and the director of the Public Health Studies Program. Her research and teaching interests focus on how culture affects our experience of living in active human bodies through sport, dance, mindful practice, and play. After a career as a professional dancer in Budapest, Hungary, Dr. Conger came to anthropology through human movement, nonverbal communication, and performance. She is particularly interested in developing cultural strategies for improved health and wellness, especially among women and girls. Dr. Conger directs Veselica International Dance Ensemble at St. Olaf and has an active research agenda.

Dr. Conger is also an active choreographer, runner, and Girls on the Run coach. She holds a PhD and MA in Anthropology from Indiana University, an M.A. in Ethnochoreology (study of human movement in cultural context) from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick, and a BA from St. Olaf College ('98).