About Me
Learning is about understanding yourself, others, and the world.
Dance has shaped my life for over 20 years, influencing how I move, teach, and think. As an educator and artist, I am passionate about helping others discover movement as a means of expression, connection, and growth. My work extends beyond performance, I explore how dance can be studied, understood, and taught in ways that empower individuals.
I teach at the collegiate level, specializing in ballroom dance, movement analysis, and dance science. My approach blends technical training with somatic awareness, encouraging dancers to refine their movement choices with intention. My current MFA research at Arizona State University focuses on integrating Laban Movement Analysis inspired imagery as a unique approach to teaching ballroom dance technique, bridging somatic practices with traditional dance forms.
Beyond the studio, I have a deep love for learning. Whether through formal education, independent research, or interdisciplinary exploration, I believe understanding is just as valuable as passion. Every field of study offers a new perspective that I find enriches the way I learn and teach.
At the heart of my work is a desire to connect with movement, with students, and engage in collaboration. Whether teaching, creating, or researching, I strive to foster an environment where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive.
Movement Practice
As a dancer and performer I have been dancing and practicing social dance styles for over two decades. A few of these styles include Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha Cha, Samba, and East Coast Swing. I have had the opportunity to perform and compete throughout the United States and in Europe as part of the Brigham Young University Ballroom Dance Touring Company for several years while obtaining my BA in Dance. I am currently attending Arizona State University pursuing my MFA in Dance.
Research
My personal research involves fields of Laban Movement Analysis, Social Dancing, Kinesiology, pedagogy, and philosophy. Much of my studies has been to find unique approaches to teaching ballroom dance with influences from Laban Movement Analysis. That are supported with an understanding of the body and unique approaches to teaching pedagogy.
Life Long Learning
Learning is a gateway to understanding yourself, others, and the world. There is joy in discovering things one may not have known before. Finding and engaging with diverse learning material makes for a gateway to collaboration. Studying within fields of science, philosophy, architecture, literature, and more open us up to new questions and possibilities that we may not have considered before. I look forward to learning for the rest of life.