RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Frances Wessells, founder of Virginia Commonwealth University's (VCU) Department of Dance + Choreography, has died at the age of 105. According to a VCU article posted on Wednesday, Jan. 22, Frances Wessells, associate professor emerita and founder of the university's Department of Dance + Choreography, died on Dec. 31, 2024, at the age of 105. Frances Wessells with one of her stone sculptures at an art show in 2022. (Photo by Ed Holten courtesy of Virginia Commonwealth University) The university said throughout Wessells' long life, she was dedicated to dance, art and her students. Carmenita D. Higginbotham, Ph.D., dean of the VCU School of the Arts, said Wessells’ extraordinary dedication and visionary leadership live on through VCU Dance. "During her many years with the Department of Dance + Choreography, Frances inspired countless students, colleagues and community members — building a legacy of creativity and collaboration,” Higginbotham said. “Her contributions continue to resonate within VCUarts. Frances Wessells was an inspiration, and we are profoundly grateful for the impact she has had on the school, the university and the Richmond arts community.” In addition to teaching at VCU, Wessells also taught at Sweet Briar College and the University of Richmond, according to VCU.