The California Swing Dance Hall Of Fame was founded in 1990 and 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, whose outstanding talents and showmanship created a legacy of movement, rhythm, energy and style in the art of swing dancing. The organization also strives to pass on this swing dance legacy to the present dance generation and to ensure that the inherited styling will continue to be interpreted and enjoyed in its highest artistic form.
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 for consideration by submitting an application (see nominate button) to the Board of Directors. A dancer is not permitted to nominate themselves but may solicit a Board member or Distinguished Elector on their behalf.
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 | Legendary swing dancers who were highly revered throughout their swing dancing lifetime and 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. |