I began dancing at the tender age of 3 years old, and thanks to my wonderful parents, continued my love and passion of dance all the way through college. Growing up, I attended many different studios and had the pleasure of learning from many wonderful teachers. Once finding the studio that fit “me” I began to realize that dancing was something I wanted to do as a career. Having the opportunity to compete at many different dance conventions and studying under the industries’ top choreographers and technicians, including Mia Michaels & Mandy Moore, has helped shape the dancer/instructor that I have become. As a senior in high school, I received The EDGE Dance Scholarship from the Urban Jam Dance Convention. This scholarship provided me with two weeks of unlimited dance classes in Los Angeles, California, again, with some of the industries’ most talented choreographers.
After graduating Dover High School in 2000, I continued my journey to one of the top dance schools in the United States, The Ohio State University where I was accepted into their Dance Program and received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance. I was under the instruction of many top Modern Dance artists, such as Bebe Miller, Susan Hadley, and Nicole Stantin. I was involved in OSU’s Dance Downtown production, and had the pleasure of working with Bgirl Teena Marie for my Senior Project. Additional styles of dance training I received include, Ballet, Jazz, African and Breakdancing. My college experience also allowed me to be part of a group that took “dancing to the schools” where we taught various dance styles to children in elementary schools. It was very rewarding and where I discovered my love for teaching children.
Soon after graduating college, I returned to my hometown to begin instructing at one of my childhood dance studios. I enjoyed coming back to my roots and giving back to the young dancers of Tuscarawas County. After 5 years instructing and working next to my dance mentor, I knew it was time for me to begin my journey of making my own studio dreams come true. After operating my first studio, The Urban Dance Factory, for 3 successful years, I decided that a growing change was necessary. I partnered with Lacey Herbert, to create Moxie Dance Academy in June 2013. After 4 years, I am now the sole owner/director of the studio. I could not be more excited to have Ms. Hanah as my Assistant Director. Together we have a great future lined up for our students.
I am so thankful to all the creative and motivating people that have helped me get to where I am today. I love dancing…It is my passion. Come share the amazing opportunity to make art and music visible. Moxie Dance Academy is a studio you can call “home”. At Moxie, you can find me instructing various dance styles as well as co-directing our Competitive Dance Team.