The California Swing Dance Hall Of Fame was founded in 1990. It is a non-profit 501c3 Corporation run by a volunteer Board of Directors. Its mission is to pay tribute to and promote the recognition and appreciation of professional and non-professional dancers of the past and present. Swing Dancers whose outstanding talents and showmanship created a legacy of movement, rhythm, energy, and style in the art of swing dancing. The organization strives to preserve California swing dance history and to ensure the inherited styling will continue to be interpreted and enjoyed in its highest artistic form for all future generations.
Those inducted or recognized into the Hall of Fame must be California residents for at least Five years. A swing dancer, board member, elector or inductee can nominate deserving swing dancers by submitting an application (see nominate button). A dancer is not permitted to nominate themselves. A board member cannot nominate another board member. If a board member is nominated, the board abstains from voting in their category to prevent bias. Only Distinguished Electors will be able to vote for a board member listed on the ballot. The board determines the final number of inductees into a category based on relative placement results.
They must have at least:
| Nova | 5 to 10 years swing dance experience. |
|---|---|
| Rising Star | 11 to 20 years Swing Dance experience. |
| Shining Star | 21 to 30 years Swing Dance experience. |
| Golden Star | 31+ years Swing Dance experience. |
| Stellar | Individuals who made a substantial impact to swing dancing who are now deceased. |
| Couples | 10+ years – Well known swing dance couples/partnerships whose swing dancing is recognized for their notable achievements and influence. |
| Special Achievement | Individuals who have contributed/promoted or furthered swing dance in California through special acts of service |
| Lifetime Achievement | Individuals who are highly revered within the swing dance community, whose impact, influence, and body of work furthered the art of swing dancing in California. |