2020 NDTC Judges Bios
Alexandra M Strahanoski
Alexandra Strahanoski has been enthusiastically involved in the dance world for 20 years and
counting. She has studied and taught jazz, pom, hip-hop, ballet, and lyrical/contemporary to
students just beginning through the collegiate level. Alex spent 4 years on her high school
dance team, was a veteran UDA Staffer, and a 3-year member of the Illinettes in college,
including a performance in the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin, Ireland. Alex has her BA in
English and Secondary Education from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and her
Masters in English from Northern Illinois University. Alex is currently a high school English
teacher who coaches a dance team, judges for UDA, and choreographs in her spare time. Above
all, Alex believes that dance is an art form and a sport that allows each participant to express
his/her feelings, athletic ability, and connect with audiences.
Allison Leigh Taylor
Allison Taylor is a veteran instructor for the Universal Dance Association. Allison lives in the St.
Louis area where she coaches the Marquette High School, Mystique Dance team. She also is an
Assistant Director of the competitive dance team at Charmette Academy of Dance. Allison is a
graduate of Missouri State University where she was a four-year member of the Sugar Bears
Dance Team. She has had the privilege of working with many talented dancers in the Midwest
region through choreography and cleaning, for the past several years.
Alva Bonita Saldana
Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, Bonita Saldana's professional career originated as a member of the
Phoenix Mercury Hip-Hop Squad & the Phoenix Suns Dance Team. Also known as, "Bgirl
Bonita", she has performed with artists such as: Jason Derulo, P. Diddy, Black Eyed Peas, Sean
Kingston, Fergie, Jamiroquai and is a member of three of the most legendary, world- famous
and credible names in Hip-Hop: Rock Steady Crew, Groovaloos and Beat Freaks. She has also
been featured on Disney's Shake It Up, Nickolodeon's Fresh Beat Band, American Idol, Dancing
with the Stars and MTV's Made. Bonita has been teaching, judging, lecturing and
choreographing professionally for over 17 years and has traveled much of the world doing so.
She is beyond grateful for the launch of her dance school in Phoenix, AZ, The Studance LAB,
where her students bridge street dance and classical dance foundations together like never
before! www.StudanceLab.com
Amanda Brooke Bailey
Brooke is the Director of Spirit Programs at the University of Arkansas, where she earned a
master’s degree in teaching. She was a four-year member of the Razorback Pom Squad and
became the Head Pom Squad coach in 2008. In her role as Director, Brooke oversees the day to
day operations of the Cheerleading Team, Pom Squad, and Mascots. Brooke works closely with
Razorback Athletics' External Staff to enhance the game day experience, fan engagement, ticket
sales, revenue, and community relations. Brooke is married to Reece, who she met during game
day in college while he was responsible for Arkansas' live mascot, "Tusk." They have two
children, Grace (4) and Baker (1). GO HOGS!
Amanda Marie Horwitz
Amanda Horwitz has over 30 years of experience in the field of dance. She was a member of
both her high school and collegiate dance teams and was a competitor at both regional
competitions and the National Dance Team Championship as a result of her involvement.
Amanda spent seven summers working with the Universal Dance Association as a Head
Instructor. Her judging credentials include regional state competitions in Michigan, North
Carolina, Wisconsin, Illinois and Massachusetts. She has also served as a judge for the National
Dance Team Championship for the past 5 years. Amanda currently works as an Academic
Advisor and college instructor at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. Amanda stays active by
taking dance classes in the metro Detroit area and participating in a variety of fitness activities
including Crossfit and kickboxing.
Amanda Willard Delgado
Veteran NDTC Judge, Former UDA Choreographer and Head Instructor. Former Head Coach of
the UCF Knightmoves Dance Team. Danced and Choreographed Professionally with the Orlando
Magic and Orlando Predators.
Amber Jackson
Amber is the former head coach of the University of Minnesota dance team. Under her
direction the team won 12 National championships and became one of the most elite college
dance programs in the country. In 2010, Coach Jackson was named the head coach of Team
USA bringing home two gold medals in the jazz and pom divisions.
Anastasia Renee Miller
Anastasia is a former graduate and dance captain from The Ohio State University. After
graduation, Anastasia became a talent agent booking choreographers, dancers, actors, athletes,
and models in feature films, television, commercials, music videos, Broadway productions, and
world artist tours. She was a senior agent and department director at BLOC Talent Agency LA,
BLOC NYC and Clear Talent Group NYC for nearly 16 years. For the past 5 years, she has joined
the team at Inside Publications as Executive Vice President and Co-Publisher of the all-access
dance magazine, INSIDE DANCE. Anastasia has been the Hip Hop Director for USASF Dance and
Dance Worlds since 2013 and, as of 2019, is also a Hip Hop Panel Director for IASF divisions at
the Dance World Championship. You can find her speaking and judging at numerous dance &
talent conventions across the US and internationally.
Angel Feliciano
New York City native- Angel Feliciano emerges from a highly respected career in dance using his
passionate performance style and relentless drive for movement innovation, in his high
definition, emotionally raw dance classes and productions. Throughout his career, Angel has
cultivated various dance styles within the Hip-Hop culture beginning with Popping, Locking,
Breaking, and House. Hip-Hop dance Adjudication: 2017, 2018, 2019 UDA Nationals Orlando
Florida, 2019 NDTC, 2015 Dance Worlds Orlando Florida, Tokyo Japan, Australia, Singapore.
Classes and Workshops: New York City, California, Australia, Japan, Belgium, London, Singapore,
New Zealand, and Puerto Rico. Credits: The Sopranos, City By The Sea, Friends with Benefits,
Brooklyn Rules, The Smurfs, MTV Video Music Awards, Apple, IBM, Commercial, Mario- Let Me
Love You music video, Nickelodeon, American Express, McDonalds, Super Bowl, IBM, National
and International touring.
Beatriz Arnold
Bea Arnold is from San Diego, CA and has over 20 years of collective experience as a
professional dancer, nationally ranked choreographer & judge. She has trained in ballet, jazz,
lyrical, modern, & hip-hop. Previously she was a full scholarship recipient for the Gus Giordano
Jazz Dance Center in Chicago IL, danced with a San Diego based Modern Dance Company, as
well as danced professionally for the NFL with the San Diego Charger Girls. She has worked
extensively as a dance judge on the National & International circuit including United Spirit
Association (USA), Universal Dance Association (UDA), JAMZ, & United States All Star
Federation (USASF) Dance World's judging panels! Bea holds a Multiple Subjects California
teaching credential, as well as a K-12 Subject Matter Authorization in Dance Education. Bea
remains active in the dance community and mostly enjoys the gift of raising her three children!
Bettina Rogers
Bettina is the current head coach for Eastern Kentucky University Dance Team. She has
extensive background and experience as a previous middle/high school, all-star, and college
coach as well as having served on many professional dance judging panels for over 15 years.
Under her guidance, EKU has placed in the top 3 placements in Division 1 pom and team
routine dances. Before coaching at EKU, she helped to lead South Laurel Middle School to their
first UDA National Champion Title in the kick division in 2013. From there, she directed BOSS
All-Stars and under her direction, BOSS dance was named National Champions in 2014 and
2015 in multiple age divisions and genres. She later coached at Dance Alley Studio, where she
helped lead them to their first UDA National title in 2016 and World Cheer Title in 2017. She
has been a longstanding judge for many companies including UDA/NDA/JamBrands.
Bonnie Nixon
Bonnie Nixon is a proud alumnus from the University of Central Arkansas and Arkansas
Technical University. She is a two-time Arkansas state dance champion. She spent 3 years as an
instructor for the Universal Dance Association. Bonnie is also a former Captain of the nationally
ranked University of Central Arkansas Honeybear Dance Team as well as a recent Coach. She
was the owner of a dance studio for four years in Central Arkansas. Bonnie currently spends her
time selling real estate, teaching Hip Hop and Lyrical at a local studio, and assisting with Bryant
Junior High Dance Team.
Brianna Blasé
Brianna was trained at the Professional Dance Center in St. Louis for 16 years and has now been
a part of the PDC family for 21 years. She was a Fox Tellerette for five years with the Fabulous
Fox Theatre and performed in Disney World for various events. Brianna attended the University
of Missouri Kansas City where she was on their dance team and earned a National
Championship Title as well as guest taught at many local KC studios. She is pursuing her dance
career as an instructor and judge for the Universal Dance Association. Brianna has been part of
the UDA family for five years and cannot imagine her life without it. She is also the assistant
dance team coach at Fox High School in St. Louis, MO. Brianna is currently attending Goldfarb
School of Nursing where she hopes to better the lives of many children in the future.
Brittany Rae Smith
Brittany Smith Rash originates from Swansea, Illinois and has been dancing since the age of
three, studying ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip hop, pom, and musical theater at studios in and
around the St. Louis area. In high school, she was Varsity Lancer Dancer at Belleville East High
School, where she won a state jazz dance title in 2008. Brittany went on to attend the
University of Kentucky, where she was a 4 year member of the University of Kentucky Dance
Team. After undergrad, Brittany continued dancing as part of the Universal Dance Association
Instructional Staff for 4 years. In 2016, Brittany graduated from the University of Kentucky
College of Pharmacy. She currently lives in Lexington, Kentucky with her husband, Brandon,
where she works as a clinical pharmacist at UK Healthcare and remains engaged in the local
dance community, working with local dance teams and studios.
Brooke Nicole Austin
Brooke Austin coached the seven-time national champion Lindenwood University Lion Line
Dance Team 2012-2018. In her first year as coach and head of the dance team program, her
team earned a Hip Hop title, and her choreography proceeded to earn the team two more Jazz
titles. Brooke also coached at the high school level 2009-2014 and led her team to win two
State Championships as well as two silver medal national finishes. Along with coaching, she has
been teaching and choreographing for studios, high school teams, and college teams across the
country since 2001. Brooke began her studio training in 1992 and earned her Bachelor of Arts
degree in Business Administration from Lindenwood University where she also served as a
captain and a choreographer on the Lion Line Dance Team. During her time with the program,
she helped lead the team to win its first two national championships.
Carley Russell Cryer
Carley has been judging at the national, regional, and state level for more than ten years and
has been a coach at the collegiate and high school level for 9 years. She is the former spirit
coordinator and head dance coach of the SEC Division IA Ole Miss Rebelettes as well as the
nationally ranked St. Thomas Aquinas Starlettes. With more than 20 years of dance experience,
Carley has choreographed and worked with a variety of dance teams, served as a UDA Head
Instructor, and competed at the collegiate level.
Caroline Koch
Caroline Koch has been a UDA judge for over a decade. Hailing from Chicago, she was crowned
Miss Dance Drill Team before teaching UDA summer camps around the country. While on the
Hip Hop Coalition at Arizona State University, Caroline was cast in High School Musical at Walt
Disney World! She has performed in everything from The Lion King to the famous Walt Disney
Christmas Day Parade, taking the stage with the likes of Beyonce, Selena Gomez and Justin
Bieber. She later took her talents across the globe dancing on the Seabourn Cruise Line's
Showroom At Sea, after completing her apprenticeship to America’s Best Dance Crew, the
Jabbawockeez, on the Monsters of Hip Hop Convention tour. Caroline is thrilled to be back at
the NDTC judges’ table this year, and for these courageous athletes to leave it all on the floor.
Chasity Tyus
Chasity is originally from Kansas City, MO! She started dancing at age 5 & continued
training/competing in both Dance Team & Studio throughout high school. Chasity is a 2015
graduate from Lindenwood University in STL where she was on the 7-time National Champion
Lion Line Dance Team. She was a two-time captain and helped lead them to 3 national
championships! Chasity is a former 7 year veteran Head Instructor for NDA. She is the former
Dance Team coach of Incarnate Word Academy and former Coach for the Lindenwood
University Golden Line Dance Team. She choreographed for many state and nationally ranked
high school dance teams in the KC and STL area. She graduated with her Bachelor of Arts
degree in Human Resources with a minor in Marketing and an Master’s in Business
Administration. She is currently the proud head coach of the nationally ranked Florida State
University Golden Girls!
Christine Michele McCarton
Christine is in her 18th season as the head coach of the St. John's University Dance Team and is
also the spirit coordinator overseeing Cheer and Pep Band. She has led the team to many top
three finishes over the past five years including winning a national championship in Hip Hop in
2016 and Game Day in 2018. She has over 30 years of dance team experience at both the high
school and collegiate level. She was a former member, captain and coach of the LIU Dance
Team. Christine is a veteran UDA judge both locally and at the national level.
Claudia Elizabeth Cole
Claudia is in her 3rd full season coaching Georgia Tech Goldrush Dance team. Last season she
lead Goldrush in there debut Hiphop appearance Nationally to finals in the D1A division. Her
team has performed in the 2019 Superbowl and performed along side numerous artist in
Atlanta.She has choreographed award winning Jazz and hip routines for both UDA/NDA High
school and college teams over the last 10 years. Originally from San Diego California Claudia is a
graduate of Valdosta State University with a Bachelors in Fine Arts with a focus on Dance and
Communications. While there she was the captain of the NDA National Champion Red Hots
Dance team (2008-2012). Currently residing in Atlanta Georgia Claudia is an adjudicator for
NDA and UDA. In addition to coaching GTGR and judging Claudia is a Technical Recruiter.
Cristen Nicole Quick
Cristen grew up in Mandeville, LA attending Northshore Academy of Dance for her dance
education for 14 years. She was a member of the competitive Pro Company for 8 years as well
as their Elite Company for 6. Since then, Cristen attended Louisiana State University where she
was an LSU Tiger Girl for 3 years and then continued on to the University of Memphis where
she was a member of the Pom Squad for 2 years. She graduated from the University of
Memphis in December of 2016 with a Bachelors Degree of Professional Studies with a
Concentration in Child Development and Family Studies. Cristen is currently working in dance
and fitness. She is the Artistic Director at Northshore Academy of Dance in Covington, LA and
enjoys training others part time at Evolve Studio in Mandeville, LA teaching reformer Pilates
and HIIT Training.
Danielle Albertina
Dani Albertina is a Collinsville, IL native based in LA. Heavily involved in the dance field for over
20 years, she is a classically and competitively trained mover whose proficiencies lie in Ballet,
Tap, Jazz, Theater, Modern, Hip Hop, Samba, & Drill Team/Pom. She is an alumnus of Southeast
Missouri State University where she received her B.A. in Dance & B.S. in Human Environmental
Studies. There she performed with the competitive dance team, Sundancers as well as
choreographed and performed with the theater dept. When not working on her own creative
projects, Dani travels teaching master classes, choreographing, cleaning routines or judging
competitions with StarQuest, Universal Dance Association and The Dance Worlds. She
graciously still performs in both commercial & concert worlds. You can spot her dancing in
music videos with NYC hip-hop legend, Kool Keith and on stage with the immersive New York
City show Menagerie D’Arte.
Devin Khoury Kilgore
Devin has 20+years of experience in the dance industry and is a 2x National Championship
coach/choreographer. Devin trained/danced competitively with her studio, on her nationally
ranked high school dance team and at the University of Alabama as a member of the Crimson
Cabaret. At 18, Devin was asked to choreograph, perform and MC Pure Fashion with renown
songwriter/composer David Foster, Anita Whitaker, Janelle and Rebecca Saint James. She was
recognized by the State of Alabama for leading the first team in the states history to win a
national championship title and honored in front of the Birmingham City Council for excellence
in leadership. Devin currently runs a choreography business, Dance By Design Team, with two
lifelong friends teaching master classes and choreographing award winning routines for dancers
across the country. She’s sought after by many for her creative choreography/staging and for
her abilities to train/instruct dancers to fulfill their dreams.
Devon Kelsey Lloyd
Devon is a freelance dancer, choreographer and sought-after technique coach from Naperville,
Illinois. She is a graduate from nationally accredited Western Michigan University with a
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. Devon has performed works by renowned artists Peter Chu,
Eddie Ocampo, Rennie Harris and international choreographer Ohad Naharin. She has
performed at Washington, D.C's Kennedy Center for the American College Dance Association's
final national competition. She is currently dancing for Hot Crowd Contemporary Dance
Company in Chicago. For the past eight summers, Devon has traveled nationally and
internationally for Universal Dance Association. In 2017 she was selected as the only dancer for
Varsity’s All-Star Apprentice Program. Throughout the year Devon can be found judging for
both Varsity and studio competitions, serving as a Legality Official for USASF, coaching, teaching
at studios and regional/national competitions, and dancing throughout Chicago.
Erynn Shea Butzke
Heather Alyse Madison
Heather Sprouse Madison has been educating and training dancers for over 25 years she is the
owner of On Stage Dance Studio located in Cedar City and St.George Utah. Also is Dance faculty
at Dixie State University where she works and choreographs for the Dance Company. 25 years
of judging experience including international. Heather was a member of Southern Utah
University ballroom team, modern dance company and received her Bachelor of Arts in
accounting and a Masters of Business administration from Utah State University. Heather was
a Pro-am Latin ballroom competitor for over three years. She loves to travel and spend time
with her family handsome boys; Hayden and Hudson.
Heather Holliday
Heather began dancing at age 8 and has trained in classical ballet/pointe, jazz, modern,
contemporary/lyrical and hip hop. She has 30 years of teaching experience and has been
judging for 10 years. In 1988 Heather trained a summer at the Enid Knapp Botsford School of
Dance (The Orcutt School) in New York under the supervision of Mikhail Baryshnikov. At age 14
she placed 2nd in ballet solo in the Stars of Tomorrow National Competition in New York City.
Heather was selected as a member of the KY Governors School for the Arts for dance in 1993.
She danced with the Lexington Ballet in 1994 and 1995. She has coached teams to 11 National
titles, 3 World Titles and 1 Summit Title.
Heather Karberg
Heather has been in the cheerleading and dance industry for over 30 years, winning 8 national
titles throughout high school and college. After college, she was a member and captain for the
San Diego Charger Girls (NFL team). Heather has coached all levels and ages including college
and professional teams. Starting at the middle school level, she worked her way up to the
college level where she coached the NAU dance team while in graduate school. After NAU,
Heather was the Director of Cheerleader for the Arizona Cardinals for 9 seasons before moving
to Washington and coaching the Seattle University dance team. Heather holds a bachelor’s
degree in Business and a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology. She lives on Cave creek,
Arizona.
Heather Madison
Heather Sprouse Madison is the owner of On Stage Dance Studio located in Cedar city and Saint
George Utah for the past 25 years. She is currently a member of Dixie State University Dance
faculty where she works with at the dance company and teaches jazz. Heather is a former pro-
am Latin ballroom competitor, and former gymnast. Heather enjoys choreographing for high
school and college dance companies, as well as her own studio companies. Heather loves to
cook, travel the world, and spend time with her two handsome smart boys Hayden and Hudson.
Jacqueline Elizabeth Genung-Koch
Jacque Genung-Koch is in her eighth season as Head Coach of the GCU Dance Team. She
attended Arizona State University and was a four-year member and senior team captain for the
ASU Dance Team. During her time at ASU, she had the honor of performing in Super Bowl XXX,
and NCAA bowl games, including the Rose Bowl, Sun Bowl, and Oahu Bowl. After earning her
M.A.Ed with a Dance emphasis, Genung-Koch has spent the past 20 years coaching dance
teams, teaching dance movement classes, developing dance education curriculum, and
instructing courses for college dance education programs. She is an active member of the
National Dance Coach Association, and is a member of the professional dance company "The
Parking Lot Project."
Jarrin Rolle Warren
Jarrin Rolle Warren has been in the dance industry for over 30 years. She is a recognized dance
coach/director, instructor, and choreographer with works ranging from Pee Wee to Collegiate
and Professional. She has judged for numerous dance companies and competitions Nationally
and Internationally and has received choreography awards in hip hop, pom and jazz. Some of
Jarrin’s accomplishments include: Dance Performance Assistant of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day
Parade, Half Time Performance Coordinator/Choreographer for the New Jersey Nets, Dance
Camp Instructor/Choreographer Japan, Dance Assistant for the Aloha Bowl Hawaii, Production
Assistant of a iThanksgiving in Parisi France, a 8th year USASF Dance Worlds Judge, a 5th year
Dance Summit Judge and CopBrands Mexico 2018 dance judge.
Jenna McClelland
5 completed summers with UDA in more than 12 states. SDSU Dance Team alum.
Jennifer Britton Whitford
Originally from Alabama, Jennifer received her B.S. in Health Promotion and M.Ed. in Education
from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she was a member of the UAB Golden
Girls. She later went on to coach that team to several top ten finishes at the NDA College
Dance Championships. She is a former Instructor, Choreographer, and Territory Manager for
UDA and has traveled the world as a judge, teacher, and choreographer. Jennifer worked as a
Spirit Coordinator at the high school level for 11 years, leading her teams to 10 state
championships and 3 appearances on ESPN as part of the NDTC. She is the current Head Coach
for The College of New Jersey Dance Team and is the owner/director of JennWhitfordDance,
where she works as a freelance choreographer and consultant for teams across the country.
Jennifer Christine Keller
Jennifer Keller is the Director of Spirit Programs and Head Dance Team Coach at Temple
University in Philadelphia, PA. She is a former Head Coach of the Cheerleading and Dance
Teams at The College of New Jersey and previously served as Assistant Coach, captain and
choreographer of the University of Delaware Dance Team. Jennifer has judged numerous state,
regional and national competitions and is a veteran judge of the NDTC.
Jennifer K Taylor
Jennifer Taylor is a Tennessee native dancer, choreographer, and competitive coach. From
Memphis, Tennessee Jennifer began her competitive career at her High School previously
ranked as a Top 3 in the nation hip-hop Large Varsity team. Her main proficiencies are in the
Pom & Hip-hop divisions. Following high school, she danced professionally for the NBA
Memphis Grizzlies as a Grizz Girl while coaching and choreographing for Top 10 teams in the
nation competing at UDA NDTC. She has won 3 national titles-2 in the Junior-high Hip-hop
division and as a Choreographer in the Varsity Hip-hop Division at NDA Nationals. During
college, she was a member of the nationally ranked D1A Dance Team- Memphis Pom. Former
member of the 2012 Team USA Hiphop Team. She currently resides in Nashville, TN as a
Regional Marketing Manager for CF Real Estate Services and a freelance choreographer/teacher
in the Southeast.
Jennifer Pyles Wright
Jenn Wright is from Fairfax, Virginia. Jenn received her dance training in Maryland under Gary
Pate and Fran Peters. She is a graduate of James Madison University where she was a 4-year
member of the nationally ranked Dukettes. She received her degree in business management
and minored in dance. Jenn worked for Universal Dance Association for seven years as an
instructor, head instructor and Philadelphia parade event staff. Since college Jenn has coached
several dance teams and taught at a studio. She has been a company director of a competitive
dance group at her studio for over 10 years. In addition to her work at the studio, Jenn
continues to judge, and teach middle school.
Jenny Rian Durbin Smith
Jenny Durbin Smith is a nationally recognized and award-winning choreographer. She is a
former member of the UNC-Chapel Hill cheer and dance teams and a former captain for the
NBA Dallas Mavericks Dancers. Jenny has been a principle dancer for many national projects
and her choreography has been featured on major network TV shows, national television
commercials, industrials, films, reality television shows, NFL fields and NBA courts. In addition
to being the proud director of the Dallas Cowboys Rhythm and Blue, the only co-ed hip hop
dance crew in the NFL, she is the Director of the Dallas Cowboys Rookie Squad, a
choreographer with Varsity Pro and travels the country choreographing and master instructing
for numerous dance organizations, professional teams and studios. Jenny also proudly serves
on the hip hop score sheet advisory boards for NDA and USASF.
Jesse Emile Hernandez
Jesse is a native from Maurice Louisiana and has been dancing since the age of two. He has 24
years of dance performance and experience and 10 years of teaching experience. He began his
dance education at Jill Listi Dance Studio, River Dance Centre, and The Lafayette Ballet Theatre
all located in Lafayette Louisiana. While studying with these studios Jesse competed on local,
regional, and national levels where he won many dance titles and scholarships. Jesse has also
traveled to London and Rome with UDA for the London and Rome New Years day parade where
he taught a routine to the varsity performers in the parade. Jesse also got selected to perform
in the 2011 Sugar Bowl halftime show with choreographer Chris Judd and the Spellman Sisters
from America’s Best Dance Crew. He also coached the Louisiana Ice Gator Gator Girls which was
the cheer/dance team for the professional hockey league team in Lafayette, The Louisiana Ice
Gators. Jesse is currently on his second season with the New Orleans Saintsations. In 2018 Jesse
was selected to the Saintsations as one of the first male NFL cheerleaders in history.
Joan E Noble-Pruett
Julie Ann DeVries
Julie is a graduate of Arizona State University with over 40 years dance experience. She’s a
veteran UDA Head Instructor/choreographer for high school and college camps and a former
State Director. Julie has performed and assisted the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, Hollywood and
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Paris and London New Year's Day Parades. She is a veteran
judge for the UDA College, USA Spirit Nationals and NDTC. Julie has coached and
choreographed for nationally ranked high school and college teams including Arizona State
University where she led the Sun Devil Dance Team to their top 5 debut finish in 2010. She was
a former rep for Co. Dance Conventions and Starlight Productions and choreographed for the
movie "Queens of Country", starring Ron Livingston and Lizzy Caplan. She was the owner of
Adage Dance Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona. Julie currently teaches and enjoys being a mom to
her little dancer.
Julie Berardi
Julie Berardi is the Owner/Artistic Director of Synergy Dance, as well as the Head Coach of the
Penn State Lionettes Dance Team. Julie assisted with national's choreography for the Lionettes
from 2011-2015 until August of 2015 when she was hired as the first ever coach for the
program. Since graduating from Penn State where she earned a B.A. in Public
Relations/Advertising, Julie was able to turn her passion for dance into a career in
choreography and coaching for dance teams and studios across the country. She has
choreographed for over 50 dance teams and studios over the past 9 years and earned multiple
titles, top 5 finishes and choreography awards. Julie is the Owner/Artistic Director at Synergy
Dance, a choreography company that specializes in competition choreography for high school,
college teams and studios. It gives Julie great joy to work with dancers and help them reach
their full potential!
Katie Jackson
Katie graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University where she was a member and 2-year
captain on the Lionettes Dance Team. She is currently in her 8th season as the head coach of
the nationally ranked Mill Valley Silver Stars in Shawnee, Kansas. Katie is a veteran judge for
NDTC, was a head instructor for UDA for 6 years, and a choreographer for summer curriculum.
Kayla Ah-Mee-Lee Preston
Kayla began dancing when she was five years old. Since her first dance class, she has studied
under the best in the business and achieved New York City Dance Alliance’s regional
Outstanding Dancer award as well as The Pulse’s regional Protégé award. She has intensely
studied in jazz, tap, ballet / pointe, lyrical / contemporary and hip hop. Kayla danced with the
University of Minnesota Dance Team and has since then taught and choreographed for
Minnesota, South Dakota and Wisconsin studio and school teams. She has also worked with
the University of Minnesota Women’s Gymnastics Team. Currently, Kayla serves as Area
Leader, overseeing the Atlanta and Charlotte region, for the largest yoga company, CorePower
Yoga. Kayla moved to Atlanta to help open the CPY market in the south and continues to
inspire kids and adults in the movement of both yoga and dance.
Kelly Ann Clement
Kelly Clement is not only known for her dynamic choreography, but for her ability to pull an
emotive performance out of dancers. She has over 38 years of dance experience. Her repertoire
includes dance studio training, dancer & choreographer for Eden Prairie Pom Squad, collegiate
ballet/jazz/modern degree training, Dancer & Captain for University of Minnesota Dance Team,
UDA Instructor, Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader, NFL Choreographer, professional dancer in
movies, and judging at state, national & world levels. Her recent choreography for University of
Minnesota contributed to 3 National Championships & a Gold Medal at Worlds. Her sister
Casey & her give their unique performance workshops to many top dance teams. She loves all
genres of dance, especially contemporary, lyrical, jazz, & pom. Kelly has a passion for sharing &
cultivating the art, athleticism and connection of dance. She works in the dance costume
industry and teaches at The Dance Warehouse in Minnesota.
Kelly Ruth Cooper
Kelly is a 25-year veteran NDTC judge, having served as a choreographer, head instructor and
state director in the West Coast for UDA for many years. She is the former captain of the
National Champion Long Beach State Dance Team, and coached UC Davis to their first National
Championship in college hip hop as well. She has danced with the Los Angeles Clippers and
Anaheim Angels, and currently works in regional musical theatre as a choreographer and
performer in the California Bay Area. She currently also serves as Vice Principal for Northgate
High School in California.
Kelsey Lack
Kelsey is a graduate of Oklahoma City University with a degree in Dance Management. She has
had the honor of being in the industry for over 15 years, working on major motion pictures,
cruise ships, theme parks, industrials, and corporate events. Not only has Kelsey had a
successful performing career, she also travels North America educating dancers and teachers
with her own conditioning method, technique training, and setting choreography. She is on the
faculty for Thrive Dance Experience and The Bridge Training Program while also judging
national/international events for several studio and dance team competitions. Kelsey is
honored to be back judging NDTC for the 11th year in a row and can't wait to experience all the
talent!
Kelsey Menke
Kelsey Menke is from St. Charles where she studied dance at AYPA and PAC St. Charles.
Throughout college, she taught as a UDA Instructor teaching high school and college camps.
After college, she moved back to St. Louis where she studied at Renee Johnson's Dance Studio
and was introduced to Anthony “Redd” Williams. After training with Redd for four amazing
years and being a part of COCAs Hip Hop Company, she moved to LA to pursue a professional
dance career. She was signed to Bloc Talent Agency has worked for artists such as Yandel, Gwen
Stefani, Pharrell, Backstreet Boys, Meghan Trainor, Lady Gaga and Prince.
Kerry Campbell Sullivan
Kerry Sullivan is a native of Boston, MA and has over 25 years of experience in multiple genres
of dance. She is the former head coach of the Harvard University Crimson Dance Team. Prior to
Harvard, Kerry attended the University of New Hampshire where she was captain and
choreographer of the dance team. In 2017, Kerry returned to UNH as a technique/conditioning
coach and is currently in her third season with the team. Kerry is a former head instructor for
UDA and has traveled both nationally and internationally teaching high school and college
dance teams. Kerry's international credits include teaching in Italy where she assisted in a
coach’s cheer and dance training program. Kerry has served as a Head judge for multiple
regional and national events including UDA High School Nationals. Kerry currently lives and
works in Boston as a client relations specialist for a local real estate company.
Kristen Lynn Kranzler
Kristie grew up dancing at The Dance Academy in Chanhassen, MN where she trained in ballet,
tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, contemporary, and pointe. She was a 4-year member of the Eden
Prairie Pom Squad and went on to become a member of the University of Minnesota Dance
Team. While on UMDT, she performed on a national Chinese television show! After college, she
joined Breaking Boundaries, a Minneapolis-based contemporary dance company. She also
became a UDA staff member where she had the opportunity to teach in Mexico and China. Due
to several major knee surgeries, Kristie no longer performs, but she enjoys judging UDA
competitions and choreographing pom routines for teams competing at the National Dance
Team Championship. She wishes all dancers the best of luck on the national’s floor!
Kristin M Best Kinscherff
Kristin Kinscherff is an Associate Professor/Head of Dance at Southern Illinois University
Edwardsville (SIUE) and the director of the University Dance Company. She holds a Master of
Fine Arts in Dance Performance from the University of Iowa. Kristin is a former company
member with The Big Muddy Dance Company in St. Louis, MO, Turn of Change Dance
Collective, Duarte Dance Works, aTrek Dance Collective, and The Slaughter Project. She has also
danced and choreographed acts for hypnotist Tony Z, comedian Phyllis Diller, and the Sugar
Bowl. Kristin is a former UDA Head Instructor and choreographer. She serves as an adjudicator
for UDA, NDA, and the National Federation of All Stars Association. Kristin has a certification in
Autism Movement Therapy and has developed a dance and fitness curriculum for the special
needs’ population. Kristin presented the curriculum, Dance for Everyone, at the 2017 National
Dance Educators Organization conference.
Kristin Winstead Jeffries
Kristin is in her sixteenth year as the head dance team coach at East Carolina University located
in Greenville NC. The ECU Dance Team competes at NDA Nationals and is currently ranked 2nd
in pom division 1A. Kristin also serves on the ECU Marching Pirates staff working with the
feature twirler. Kristin spent nine years as an instructor with the Universal Dance Association
and is a veteran NDTC judge. She also has judging experience within her region as well as being
on the judging panel for NFL cheerleaders. Currently she has former dancers with the Atlanta
Falcons Cheerleaders and the Carolina Panthers Topcats Cheerleaders. Kristin works as a school
counselor and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership.
Kyle Matthew Lavergne
Kyle Lavergne graduated from the University of Louisiana - Lafayette with a BA in Mass
Communications-Advertising accompanied by a minor in English. Kyle was a Universal Dance
Association Instructor/Head Instructor/International Instructor and is a certified
Regional/National/International Judge. Mr. Lavergne worked for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
as a Dancer/Acrobat/Aerialist. With RCCL he performed trampoline and diving in the "Oasis of
Dreams" aqua show onboard the Oasis of the Seas, was the featured acrobat in "Come Fly With
Me," performed the roles of IQ/Fender in the Broadway musical "Hairspray," and was a male
dancer in a Broadway review show, and a modern, musical retelling of classic fairytales in "Once
Upon a Time." Kyle served as Dance Captain on one of the world's largest cruise ships, Oasis of
the Seas. Kyle currently works for the College of Engineering at Louisiana State University while
pursuing his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Lane Denali Hettich
Laura Catherine Knight
Laura has been actively involved in the dance world for many years. She won a state title in
Pom with her high school dance team, and began her collegiate career with Parkland College,
receiving a third-place award in Pom at UDA College Nationals. Her undergraduate career was
finished with two years on the Illinettes Dance Team at the University of Illinois at Champaign-
Urbana, where she performed in a wide variety of events including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
in Dublin, Ireland. She is a veteran UDA staffer, and after completing her masters at the
University of Illinois in Nutritional Science, she is continuing her passion for dance with UDA as
a member of their judging team.
Lauren Rae Byrd
Lauren Byrd has been dancing since age 3 and is trained in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical & hip hop.
She attended the University of Memphis and holds a bachelor's degree in public relations as
well as a master's degree in communications and marketing. While at the University of
Memphis, she was a member and captain of the Memphis Pom Squad and achieved 2 National
Championship titles in Hip Hop. Lauren was also a member of Team USA Hip Hop in 2012. She is
currently in her 5th season as an NBA dancer for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Lindsay Headrick
She grew up in Saint Louis, MO, where she was focused on ballet and studied with the Missouri
State Ballet and the Canadian Ballet of Montreal. After switching gears, and focusing on
competitive dance, she earned regional and national titles. Lindsay earned her BA, in Dance, at
Lindenwood University, where she was a four-year member of the National Champion Lion Line
Dance Team, which has been inducted into the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Lindsay has
become a twelve-year veteran UDA staff member and Head Instructor, and has been named
Veteran Instructor of the Year. She was selected to prep cheerleaders and dancers from across
the country, to perform in the Macy’s Day Parade, as well as London’s New Year’s Day Parade.
Lindsay works with high school and college dance teams throughout the Midwest, and her
choreography and consulting has helped numerous teams earn top National rankings.
Lindsey Lococo
Lindsey Lococo is in her tenth year as Spirit Coordinator/Head Coach of the University of Illinois
at Chicago Dancing Flames. Professional experiences include appearances with Beyoncé-Oprah
Farewell Spectacular, Chris Brown’s Dance Down, Sprite Remix tour ft. The Roots & N.E.R.D.,
Oprah’s 24th Season Premiere featuring the Black Eyed Peas and KissFM’s Fantabuloso. She has
performed internationally in India for the IPL Cricket Championships and China for the Baoshan
International Arts Festival. She is a freelance choreographer, former dancer and captain of the
UIC Dancing Flames and Hip Hop Connxion - Elite, dancer for Design Dance Company, Work In
Progress, Director of the Chicago Storm Dance Team and worked for the Chicago Fire
Firestarters. Lindsey is a former UDA instructor, has adjudicated for UDA, IHSA, IHSDTA, Varsity
All-Star (Jamfest, GLCC, US Finals, Coastal) and was the founding President of the Alliance of
Illinois Dance Adjudicators.
Lindsey Nicole Crowley
My name is Lindsey Crowley from Las Vegas, NV. I have had the pleasure of performing with
Vanessa Williams, The Osmond Boys, Franki Valli, Debbie Reynolds and Christina Aguilera. I
currently teach at several studios out in Las Vegas as well as do choreography for numerous
Junior High Schools and High Schools. I was also a UNLV Rebel Girl for 4 years and the captain
for 2.
Lisa Brooke Preece
Lisa Preece is the proud Mother of 2 beautiful children and currently lives in Logan, Utah. She is
celebrating her 11th year as a successful dance studio owner. Her studio Dance Illusion is
currently teaching over 600 students ages 3 to adult. She is a former 3-year member of the
Utah State Aggiette dance team. She also coached Logan High School’s dance team for 6 years,
winning numerous national, state and regional titles. Lisa was a state director as well as a Head
Instructor for Universal Dance Association. She is a highly acclaimed judge on the national and
local level. She enjoys choreographing for studios, teams, and musical theatre productions. She
is very excited to be back again judging the UDA National Dance Team Championships again.
Lori Tombrello Stephens
Lori Tombrello Stephens was born and raised in Birmingham, AL where she trained for 15+
years and danced competitively with both her high school and dance studio. Lori coached at her
alma mater for 10+ years where she led her teams to 2 UDA National Championships and
several top 10 finishes. Lori now teaches at an elementary school in Birmingham, AL and co-
owns a choreography business, Dance By Design. Lori feels blessed to spend her free time
choreographing for dance teams around the country and training young aspiring dancers!
Lucia Lambert
I danced competitively throughout high school and quickly found my niche in cleaning and
choreography. After helping a few teams/prep schools, I transferred my skills into judging
regional competitions. Offering a third party, constructive perspective to teams in helping them
grow has been a passion through my entire life. UDA Nationals exemplifies the best of the best,
and I'm honored to be a part of the magic.
Macie Baucum
Macie Baucum is originally from St. Louis, Missouri. She grew up dancing competitively at the
regional and national level. She was a founding member and vice president of Mizzou Club
Dance during her time at the University of Missouri. She has worked for Universal Dance
Association for eight years as a staff member and head instructor. Through UDA, Macie has
traveled to over ten states for summer camps and has twice attended the New Year's Day
Parade in London, England. Macie received her judge’s certification through UDA and has been
judging for the past five years. She has choreographed for and worked with nationally ranked
high school dance teams throughout the state of Missouri since 2013. Additionally, Macie
coached for Fort Zumwalt West, the 2018 Large Hip Hop National Champions. She is now
pursuing a graduate degree at Texas A&M University and continues to work for UDA!
Madison Kate Williams
I have danced in a studio since I was 5 yrs old. I danced on PetersTownship High School Dance
Team for 4 years, as well as Memphis Pom for 4 years. I have choreographed in the past for
studios and have cleaned dance teams throughout high school and college. I worked for UDA
for 3 years teaching camps.
Mandy Pruett Borgelt
Mandy Pruett Borgelt holds a B.A. in Dance from Lindenwood University and has over 20 years’
experience teaching dance and choreography. Her passion for teaching is cultivated in her
students as she creates a safe, honest place for which they can express themselves. She is an E-
RYT 200 hour through Yoga Alliance. She has created yoga and dance cross training courses for
the International Cheer Union and UDA and has taught on 5 continents and 35 states
domestically.
Mary Paige Griffin
Mary Paige Griffin has over fifteen years of dance and cheerleading experience. In 2015, she
graduated with a degree in Secondary Education from the University of Mississippi. While at
Ole Miss, Mary Paige was a four-year member of the Rebelette Dance Team, serving as one of
the co-captains her senior year. She has worked with several dance teams and cheer squads in
Mississippi and Alabama and is a former assistant choreographer for the Distinguished Young
Women of Mississippi Program. Mary Paige teaches Social Studies and Religion at Our Lady of
Sorrows Catholic School in Birmingham, Alabama, and will graduate with her master’s degree in
K-12 Administration and Supervision in May 2020.
Mattison Scardino
Mattison Scardino grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and trained with the Arabesque School
of Dance for 16 years and was a member of their competitive dance team for 11 years. After
high school, Matti went on to join the Ole Miss Rebelettes Dance team at the University of
Mississippi where she studied Mechanical Engineering and served as captain of the dance team
her senior year. After college, Matti furthered her dance career as an NBA Professional Dancer
for the Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Team for 2 seasons. Throughout her career, Mattison has
had the opportunity to perform in pageants and concerts such as Brad Paisley and New Kids on
the Block. She has been a choreographer and judge at the high school and college level for over
7 years. Mattison now resides in Pensacola, Florida where she is a Sales Engineer for Eaton
Corporation.
Maureen Marmesh
Mo Marmesh is a native of Miami, Florida currently based in Omaha, Nebraska. She is a UCLA
graduate and former Associate Producer for CBS Television in New York. Mo is in her fifth year
as Head Coach of the University of Nebraska at Omaha Dance Team. Previously, she coached
the Gablettes Dance Team from Coral Gables Senior High for 5 years. Under her direction, the
Gablettes won several Florida State Championships and 6 NDA National titles. Individually, Mo
has been recognized for her outstanding choreography, challenging coaching style, and ability
to develop strong leaders. Her dancers have been selected as NFL Cheerleaders, NBA Dancers,
NDA/UDA Staff Members, and have been chosen for elite collegiate dance teams throughout
the country. Presently, Mo specializes in choreography, technique, and leadership seminars.
She has done choreography for teams all over the U.S. and excited to be in her fifth-year
judging for Varsity.
Michelle Fujisaki Debban
Michelle is the former coach of the George Mason University Masonettes Dance Team. As head
of the program for 18 years, she guided the team to multiple top 5 Pom finishes at UDA College
Nationals. She has also served as a choreographer and consultant to multiple high school teams
across the DC Metro area.
Michelle Theresa Peterson
Michelle has been dancing since she was five in all types of dance. She has studied in Jazz,
Ballet, Lyrical, Tap, and Hip hop and was captain of her Drill team in high school. And then went
on to teach for UDA. Michelle was also a member of the University of Utah dance team. She has
taught dance at several local studio’s before opening her own is 2001. She has been teaching
and running her own studio for 18 years now. She also coaches Alta high drill team for the last 3
years. She has 25 years of judging experience for UDA, local she also judge’s for AASCF.
Michelle also works with several different teams across the country.
Morgan Schulte
Morgan Schulte has over 20 years of dance experience teaching at studios, instructing master
classes, and choreographing for many state and national competitions. Currently she is in her
4th season dancing professionally for the NBA Memphis Grizzlies. She was a 7-year head
instructor for UDA camps at the high school and collegiate levels and has traveled
internationally with UDA for special events. Morgan judges many competitions for various
brands, including The USASF Dance Worlds. She attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
where she earned degrees in Exercise Science and Dietetics, and has a master’s degree in
Nutrition from Saint Louis University. She fuses dance with her career as a personal trainer,
fitness coach, and dietitian through her own business, Motivate, and speaks on these topics
throughout the country.
Nicole Zehnder
As the former coach of the 6x National Champion University of Delaware Dance Team, Nicole
Zehnder directed, choreographed and developed her team’s successes and lifelong bonds on
and off the dance floor for 14 impactful years! She is currently the Director of ABA and Autism
Services for a regional agency in the Northeast, continues to teach and share her love of dance
with multiple studios and school programs in her area and lives in Delaware with her husband,
daughter and 2 dogs!
Rachel Elizabeth Domangue
Rachel Domangue, originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, is the former Director of the
National Dance Alliance. With an extensive background in high school and college dance team,
Rachel’s BFA in Performing Arts – Dance from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette has
allowed her to network with all facets of the dance industry. She has worked all over the US as
a dance team coach, choreographer and studio teacher. She was honored to judge at the 2018
All Japan Cheer and Dance Championship in Tokyo and UDA's 2019 NDTC, as well as serve as a
Legality Official at the 2019 Dance Worlds. Rachel is currently living in Dallas, Texas, serves on
the Rules and Judges’ Education Committees of the USASF, and works as a consultant, speaker,
instructor and adjudicator at conferences and competitions across the US.
Raven Symonne Gantt
Raven Gantt, a Southern California native, has been dancing since the age of three. Throughout
her dance career she has studied and trained under the industry’s top professionals. Raven
graduated from California Baptist University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast
Journalism and New Media. Raven is the co-owner and director at Define Dance Space in
Riverside, CA. She is the choreographer and creative director for the ‘Acrobots,’ the first ever
acrobatic hoverboard dance group, who appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and opened
for Justin Bieber in December 2015. Raven teaches throughout the United States and judges
both nationally and internationally for various companies. Raven was recently awarded a 2018
Choreographer of The Year award. She has appeared in several television series, major motion
pictures, and music videos including ABC’s Television series, No Ordinary Family, and The
Amazing Spiderman 2.
Regina Scot Waterman
Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, Regina’s passion for dance team was ignited in high school
while competing with the nationally ranked Millard West Dance Team for three years where
her team placed in the top ten consistently each year, including a silver medal finish in 2011.
Throughout her college years, she continued her passion through coaching and choreographing
for numerous teams throughout Kansas and Nebraska, while dancing competitively herself.
Regina graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha where she danced from 2014-
2016, serving as captain her last season and leading her team to a top five finish in Division I at
NDA College Nationals in 2016. She then went on to hold the assistant coach position for the
2016-2017 season. Since graduating, she has planted roots in Nashville, Tennessee and is
entering her 4th season as a veteran Varsity judge.
Risa Jennifer Snapp
Risa was a 4-year member of the University of Delaware Dance Team that won the National
Championship in 2005. Post-graduation, she was the assistant coach for Temple University for
3 years, then came back to her alma mater as the assistant coach and won 2018 D1 Jazz
National Championship. She is now the current Head Coach of University of Delaware Dance
Team and won the 2019 D1 Hip Hop National Championship in first year of coaching.
Sandy Jan Yen
Sandy's film, television and stage credits include Friends, Pepsi, N’SYNC, A Walk to Remember
and Bring it On. Her choreography credits include Disney Cruise Lines, Tokyo Disney, the Miss
Florida Pageant, the Sacramento Kings Dancers and the Orlando Magic Dancers. Internationally,
she has toured with Latin recording artist Mariana G and Philippine recording artist Vina
Morales.
Sara Berry-Lee
Sara Berry-Lee is originally from Oklahoma City, OK. She trained in many styles growing up
including jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and ballet. Sara went on to study dance and graduated
from Belhaven University magma cum laude with a BFA in dance, minor in Business
Administration and certificate of Accounting. While Sara was in college, she was UDA staff
member and head instructor. She has an extensive background in dance team. Sara was a
member of the University of Memphis dance team, an Oklahoma All-State dancer, a 6x state
champion, and 4x national champion. Sara has continued her love of dance team by
choreographing for teams all over the country. Currently, Sara is a company member with
Kinetic Etchings Dance Company and Lower School Director for Ballet Mississippi. She also
serves as the Director of Finance & Operations for the USA International Ballet Competition.
Shanan Story
Shelly Marie Mahaffey Warren
Shelly Mahaffey Warren is the current Academy of Unified Arts Director at Mainland High
School in Daytona Beach, FL, a veteran Head Instructor for Universal Dance Association, and the
Quality Control Leader for judging panels at The USASF Dance Worlds. In addition, Shelly is a
veteran national and international judge and works as a choreographer and competition
consultant for high school, college, studio, and all-star programs across the country. She is the
rehearsal coordinator for the pregame performance for the Citrus Bowl held annually in
Orlando, FL and has served as rehearsal director for pregame at the ACC Championship Game in
2015 and 2016. Shelly has obtained national titles as a dancer, coach, and choreographer in
High Kick, Hip Hop, Pom, and Jazz, and continues to pursue her dream of educating and
inspiring dancers through her travels to studios and schools nationwide.
Stephanie H. Edson
Stephanie has been dancing most of her life and is trained in many genres of dancecurrently
she specializes in jazz, pom, kick and military choreography. Stephanie has been a UDA veteran
for 20 years serving as a Head Instructor, choreographer and certified judge. She also danced in
the NBA for several seasons with the Sacramento Kings Dance Team. Currently, Stephanie
works with dance teams and studios focusing on technique and choreography. She has a degree
from the University of Utah Medical School and enjoys working as the Quality Supervisor for
the University of Utah’s worldwide reference laboratory. Stephanie resides in Draper, Utah,
with her husband and four children.
Summer Moon
Tami Christine Whatcott
Tami Whatcott graduated from Utah Valley University with a BFA in Modern Dance and a BS in
Dance Education. She has been a member of Synergy Dance Company, Contemporary Dance
Ensemble, UVU Ballroom Tour Team, and danced as well as coached for the Utah Flash. Other
notable professional companies include Diavolo, Joel Hall Dancers, Noumenon Dance Ensemble,
and Myriad Dance Company. She has been trained in ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, hip-
hop, and ballroom. She has judged, performed, and taught in over 15 different countries and
has done choreography for professional NBA teams, dance companies, and numerous different
studio’s and award-winning high schools.
Tana Beth Barndollar
Tana began dancing at the age of 5 in Kansas. Once she began competing with her studio at the
age of 9 in Jazz, Tap and Contemporary, she was hooked! At the age of 17 she began teaching
which lead her to become co-captain of her college dance team. That year they placed in the
top 10 at the USA Nationals in Daytona Beach, Fl. She has choreographed numerous
competitive pieces as well as coached several middle school to high school aged Pom teams in
California. Tana has been a member of several dance teams: 2 IFL teams, the MLS Kansas City
Wizards Girls and spent 2 years as a Royal Court Dancer of the NBA Sacramento Kings Along
with teaching at a local Nashville area studio, Tana has judged for varsity for 4 years in the
Tennessee area and for 6 years at the College and NDTC levels.
Terrie Meyer
Terrie Meyer is a 19-year Veteran Head Judge for Universal Dance Association. Terrie brings 39
years of dance experience and 23 years of coaching experience for dance and cheer. She is a
graduate of the University of North Texas and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology
and Dance. She also holds a Texas Teacher’s Certification in Dance and PE. Terrie was a Head
Instructor and Staff Member for UDA for 15 years and has served as a Judge/Adjudicator for the
USASF Dance Worlds, UDA College Nationals, and UDA High School Nationals. She is the former
Director of the Austin Spurs Capital City Dancers, former Director of the Texas Stars Ice Girls,
and former Assistant Coach of the University of Texas Longhorn Pom Squad. Terrie is currently
directing the Connally Stars Dance Team in Texas where she received the 2018 “Director of the
Year” Award for Danceline Educators Association.
Tyla Armstrong
With over 20 years’ experience, Tyla has coached and directed at the studio, high school and
collegiate level. She was awarded the state’s first honor as high school coach of the year after a
career with over 12 state championship titles and 4 National titles. Once serving as UDA Advisor
Trainer, Tyla continues to advise and volunteer with the Activities Association of New Mexico
and their Spirit Competitions.
Valerie Stead Potsos
Valerie Stead Potsos is in her 19th season as the coach of the nationally ranked University of
Michigan Dance Team and is the Director/Owner of Dancer's Edge in Dexter, Michigan.
Recently, she traveled to Vienna, Austria to choreograph and train The Vienna Vikings Dance
Teams and has choreographed for professional corporations such as Ford Motor Company.
Her articles on coaching and dance have appeared in many national publications. Along with
judging local and national competitions, she is a seminar presenter, and curriculum consultant
for Varsity University and UCA/UDA. Her students have auditioned for America’s Got Talent
and have been featured on the show in 2015. She was a 4-year member and captain of The
University of Michigan Dance Team and graduated with a B.A. from the University of Michigan
with additional graduate studies in Secondary Education. Valerie resides in Dexter, MI with her
husband and two sons and daughter.
Vanessa Rochelle McGautha
Vanessa McGautha brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the dance industry with over
25 years of experience. The California native is a former dance team member and
choreographer for the NBA's Golden State Warriors, while currently serving as an audition
panel member to date. While earning her degree in Public Relations from San Jose State
University, Vanessa was a UDA head instructor and regional competition judge. Vanessa has
been at the forefront of developing recreational and competitive hip hop programs for many
Bay Area dance studios. Currently a full time faculty member for a renowned San Jose, Ca
studio, Vanessa continues to stay on the cutting edge teaching master classes and serving as a
guest choreographer to Bay Area schools.