Date of Decision: May 6, 2024
Service Center: Nebraska Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB-1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Contemporary Dancer
Field: Dance (Contemporary)
Nationality: Not specified in the document
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Denied
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met:
- Lesser Prizes or Awards: The petitioner provided documentation of nationally or internationally recognized prizes for excellence in contemporary dance.
- Membership in Associations: Evidence showed membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements in dance.
- Published Material: The petitioner submitted articles in professional or major trade publications about their work.
- Judging the Work of Others: Evidence demonstrated participation as a judge or evaluator in their field.
- Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases: The petitioner displayed work at recognized artistic exhibitions or showcases.
- Leading or Critical Role: The petitioner performed leading or critical roles in organizations with distinguished reputations.
Key Points from the Decision
Lesser Prizes or Awards:
The petitioner documented receiving awards recognized nationally and internationally in the field of contemporary dance.
Membership in Associations:
Membership in associations with rigorous standards and requiring significant achievements in contemporary dance was confirmed.
Published Materials About the Petitioner:
The petitioner submitted articles published in major trade publications and media discussing their work and achievements.
Judging the Work of Others:
The petitioner provided evidence of participation as a judge in dance competitions and panels.
Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases:
The petitioner’s work was displayed at prestigious artistic exhibitions and showcases, meeting this criterion.
Leading or Critical Role Performed:
The petitioner successfully demonstrated roles of significance in organizations with distinguished reputations.
Supporting Documentation
Awards and Prizes: Provided but lacked recent recognition post-2014.
Published Articles: Evidence was provided but predominantly referenced older accomplishments.
Reference Letters: Submitted letters endorsed earlier achievements but lacked focus on more recent contributions.
Conclusion
Final Determination: The appeal was dismissed.
Reasoning:
While the petitioner met six of the ten evidentiary criteria, they failed to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim required for EB-1 extraordinary ability classification. Evidence of continued contributions and recognition in recent years was insufficient.
