Meet The Judges

The Dance Worlds judges are often those nominated by member Event Producers who send bid-winning teams to Worlds and/or are judges in good standing who have previously judged the Worlds event. Applicants must confirm their ability to sit on the judging panel based upon established criteria and must undergo an approved background check, complete athlete abuse prevention education, and sign a statement of confidentiality and ethical behavior as a person serving in any Worlds judging capacity. A Judge Selection Committee comprised of Worlds officials, Event Producers and industry experts, looks for well-rounded judging panels that include diversity, geographic locations, judging backgrounds and expertise and other criteria/qualifications. Upon review of each prospective judge’s application, committee members rate and review each applicant with their qualifications to adjudicate the Worlds event. Upon selection, judges undergo virtual and onsite training and once at the event will take an oath to remain impartial, evaluating all teams fairly without prejudice or bias based on their performance at Worlds.

Directors

Michelle Allison

Michelle Allison, Artistic Director of Curtain Call Dance Center, Indianapolis, IN, trained at College Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati; B.S. Dance Performance – Ball State University. Michelle is director of the Performing Companies, The Nutcracker and Dance Against Cancer at Curtain Call where she teaches dance, choreographs and develops curriculum and continuing education. Choreographer of musicals, show choirs, marching band and winter guard. Michelle judged The Dance Worlds since the inaugural year, currently the USASF Panel Director for the Jazz and Kick Categories. From 2010-2021 Michelle choreographed the Colts NFL Cheerleader auditions and halftime shows, was a frequent guest judge/master instructor with JCDA Tokyo, JPN since 1994, is a veteran judge of NDA and other Varsity school, All Star and college competitions, including JAMFest Japan. Spent 13 years teaching NDA, choreographed/ field produced 15 bowl games & nationally televised parades; judged NDA Regionals, All Star Dance and College Nationals since 1992.

Erin Alvarado

Erin Alvarado is in her 14th season as Dance Team Coach at Texas Tech University, leading one of the nation’s premier collegiate programs. Under her direction, the team earned its first NDA Division IA Jazz National Championship in 2017 and has since captured six national titles: IA Jazz (2017, 2018, 2021) and IA Pom (2018, 2019, 2021). In 2022, her team represented the United States at the ICU World Championships, winning Gold in Jazz. Her teams have performed at the Shanghai Tourism Festival and alongside the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Alumni have gone on to professional careers with NFL teams, cruise lines, and major entertainment companies. A graduate of West Virginia University with a degree in exercise physiology and a minor in dance, Erin is a respected adjudicator with international judging experience in Japan and Australia. She also serves as the USASF/IASF Contemporary/Lyrical Category Director, contributes educational content for dance training platforms, and is an adjunct faculty member at Texas Tech, teaching Jazz, Tap, and Anatomy for Dance. In 2019, she was named the inaugural National Collegiate Dance Coach of the Year.

Brian Cao

Brian Cao has been involved in the spirit industry for nearly 30 years on the school, All Star, collegiate and professional levels. His choreography and consulting opportunities have taken him all around the world, including to Canada, Finland, Japan and the UK. His dance resume includes performing with professional companies in the Pacific Northwest, show directing large halftime shows and three seasons with the NBA Portland Trailblazers Jam Squad. He consults cheer and dance teams of all levels and is the current choreographer for Team England Freestyle Pom. In addition, he travels the world speaking at conferences, judging for major events, is a 7-time judge for The Dance Worlds and the current USASF/IASF Pom Panel Director.

Jenny 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 principal 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 & The Officials, 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. Jenny serves as the USASF/IASF Panel Director for Hip Hop.

Lindsay Headrick

Lindsay Headrick is from St. Louis, MO, where she grew up focusing on ballet, by studying with the Missouri State Ballet and the Canadian Ballet of Montreal. Lindsay earned her BA in Dance, at Lindenwood University, where she was a four year member of the National Champion Lion Line Dance Team. During her time on the team, she began working for Universal Dance Association, where she has been named Veteran Staff Member of the Year and received the Raving Fan Award. For the past decade, she has been a part of adjudication panels on the regional, national, and international levels. Currently, she is the Co-Director of the Quality Team at the USASF/IASF Dance Worlds. Lindsay has consulted and choreographed for numerous High School and Collegiate Dance Teams across the US, and has helped them achieve top national rankings.

Sarah Miller Bate

Sarah Miller Bate serves as Director of Dance for the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF), where she works to elevate All Star Dance and expand resources for members nationwide. With more than 40 years of experience, she holds a dual BA in Dance and Education from Old Dominion University. A four-time High School All-American and three-time Collegiate All-American, she was also a Top Gun Leaps & Turns winner. Sarah spent a decade as a Head Instructor with NDA, earning the Excellence in Leadership Award. She has performed with Norfolk-based companies Second Wind and Todd Rosenlieb Dance and appeared at international festivals with choreographer Amanda Kinzer. A certified Classical Pilates instructor, she has taught Olympic athletes and professional dancers for over 20 years. With 25+ years of judging experience, Sarah chairs the USASF Dance Rules Committee and co-chairs the Dance Advisory Board, passionately working to strengthen the dance community.

Anastasia Miller Burns

Anastasia Miller Burns is a former graduate and dance captain from The Ohio State University. After graduation, Anastasia became a talent agent booking choreographers, dancers, actors 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 14 years. For the past 12 years, she has led the team at Inside Publications as Executive Vice President and Co-Publisher of the all-access dance magazine and media group, INSIDE DANCE. Since 2013, she has been the Hip Hop Judge Panel Director for the USASF/IASF Dance World Championships. Anastasia is also a member of the USASF Board of Directors and guides the USASF Dance Advisory Board as Chairman. In 2024, she had the honor of being inducted into the National Dance Coaches Association (NDCA) Hall of Fame. You can find her speaking, training, and judging at numerous studio, All Star & talent competitions/conventions across the USA and internationally.

Cheryl Paquette

Cheryl Paquette is the USASF Dance Adjudication Director and Communications Coordinator. Cheryl has been involved in the dance industry for over 30 years and is trained in ballet, tap, jazz, and pointe, spending six years as a company member with the Gateway Ballet. A graduate of the University of Missouri with a B.S.Ed. K-12, she earned the team’s first National Championship title with the Mizzou Golden Girls in 1991. She is a former NFL St. Louis Rams Cheerleader and NBA Dallas Mavericks Dancer. She was awarded the NCA/NDA Herkie Legacy Award in 2017 for her commitment to the industry and inducted into the Missouri State Hall of Fame in 2023 for her contribution as a Mizzou Golden Girl. Cheryl resides in St. Louis, MO, and enjoys judging for many national and international Event Producers.

Paige St. John

Paige St. John holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Dance from The Ohio State University (2019) and M.A. in Dance Education from the University of Northern Colorado (2023). Originally from Ohio, and currently based in Singapore, Paige is honored to serve as the IASF Panel Advisor for the Jazz Division at The Dance Worlds. Her work as an educator has taken her across the globe, leading her to have either choreographed, taught, judged, or presented dance education and coaching seminars in 18 countries and counting. In Singapore, Paige is a Lead Dance Instructor at a local studio, teaching a variety of styles and developing/structuring curriculum for further growth and support of students. Paige specializes in technique and choreography in the styles of Contemporary, Jazz, and Pom, while also hosting lectures and seminars for other dance educators and coaches on training techniques, student-coach rapport, and curriculum consistency.

Shelly Warren

Shelly Warren is the current Golden Girl Spirit Squad Director at The Villages High School in Middleton, Florida and a Quality Team Director for the judging panels at The USASF/IASF 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 USA. She is the rehearsal director for the halftime performance for the Citrus Bowl held annually in Orlando, Florida, and has served as the rehearsal director for pregame at the ACC Championship Game. Shelly worked for Universal Dance Association (UDA) for 22 years in various roles: head instructor, choreographer, program committee member, and college camp instructor, and has obtained national titles as a dancer, coach, and/or choreographer in Pom, High Kick, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Game Day. She continues to pursue her dream of educating and inspiring dancers through her travels to studios and schools worldwide.

Contemporary/Lyrical Panel

Jesus Acosta

Jesus Acosta is originally from Guanajuato, Mexico. He discovered dance at Sam Houston State University where he decided to pursue a career in dance while studying to receive a BFA. Most recently he was named as one of the newest members of the Board of Directors for Houston Contemporary Dance Company where he is a founding member and danced for 3 seasons. Other company credits include NobleMotion Dance for 9 seasons while also rehearsal director for the company, The Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, and Hope Stone Dance Company. He has worked with MA Dance and Auxiliaries for 21 years teaching, choreographing, and judging. Jesus has been a judge on the Contemporary/Lyrical Panel for 5 years at The Dance Worlds and was on the Jazz Panel at UDA College Nationals in 2025. He currently teaches all levels of Jazz at Dance Du Coeur in Sugar Land, TX where he has also been a Company Director for the past 12 years. Jesus believes in instilling positivity to everyone that he comes in contact with.

Grizzy Galvan

Grizzy Galvan is an accomplished dancer, instructor, and choreographer. She danced on a nationally ranked team in her youth and has since coached and choreographed teams recognized for competitive excellence. She has also performed at large-scale entertainment events at the Disneyland Resort. Grizzy has served as USA Instructional Staff and Head Instructor and was honored to lead as Dance Program Competition Director, overseeing events with integrity and high judging standards. With 20 years of experience as a judge, director, and producer in high school, All Star, and collegiate competitions. Grizzy has judged and taught in Japan, Australia, Chile, and Mexico. She holds a degree in Kinesiology with a focus on Exercise Science and integrates biomechanics, injury prevention, strength development, and performance psychology into her training. Her goal is to continue making a positive impact on dancers’ lives through her dual expertise in dance and science, shaping the future of dance education and performance worldwide.

Amanda Kerby

Amanda Kerby, born in Riverside, California, grew up a competitive dancer at the age of six. She has won numerous titles including representing the United States in Australia winning the international title of ‘Dancer of The World’ in 2006. She toured the world dancing on a cruise ship, featured on So You Think You Can Dance, was a background dancer for ‘Foreigner’, and performed with contemporary ballet company “Atlantis Dance Theatre”. She danced two seasons in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers and then continued to represent the NFL as an All Star Cheerleader as an ambassador at the international games in London. She teaches conventions and master classes throughout the nation, is a nationally recognized choreographer, and judges internationally in countries like Mexico, Japan, UK, Canada and Australia. Amanda graduated college from CSULB with a BA in Dance. She followed her affinity for kinesiology and movement science by continuing her education and is Pilates Certified (BASI), a Certified Personal Trainer (NASM), Stretch & Flexibility Coach (NASM) and Progressive Ballet Technique Certified (PBT). Amanda is currentlydancing professionally in Las Vegas, NV, performing in the hit show “MJ Live” at Harrah’s Casino.

Melissa Kidd

Melissa Kidd is the owner of Dance Technician- a private strength training facility for dancers. With a global reach, she trains dancers both in person & virtually across 10+ countries, focusing on strength, flexibility & injury prevention as well as injury rehabilitation. A former studio owner of 10 years as well as serving as Director of Dance at a private school in Cincinnati, she brings deep expertise in educating dancers from early childhood through high school. Certified in Pilates, aerial yoga, & injury prevention, Melissa blends artistry, education and movement science. She is a seasoned adjudicator & national dance team consultant having worked with 50+ high school and collegiate teams nationwide. She has served as a USASF legality official and judge for over 10 years & has judged events across the country.

Sarah Pohlman

Sarah Pohlman is a studio owner, educator, and internationally recognized adjudicator with more than 25 years of experience in the dance industry. Originally from Northeast Ohio, she trained and competed nationally before continuing her education in New York City, studying jazz, contemporary, lyrical, ballet, tap, hip hop, and acrobatics. Sarah danced professionally for the AFL, representing Cleveland at the Arena Bowl, and for the NBA as a member of the Cleveland Cavalier Girl Dance Team, performing alongside nationally recognized artists and choreographers. She has taught, coached, and mentored competitive dancers for over a decade, with many students earning regional and national titles. Since 2015, Sarah has adjudicated major events including The USASF Dance Worlds, The Dance Summit, JAMfest Japan, and The Dance MAJORS. As Owner and Artistic Director of Absolute Dance Company, she is passionate about developing strong technicians, confident performers, and well-rounded individuals. She values integrity and excellence deeply.

Jennifer Ritchie

Jennifer Ritchie brings over three decades of experience in dance and performance cheer as a dancer, instructor, coach, choreographer, and international judge. She began training as a competitive dancer at a young age before performing professionally with the Saskatchewan Roughrider Dance Team in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Following her performance career, Jennifer transitioned into teaching, coaching, and choreography. She has taught a wide range of styles including jazz, pom, hip hop, lyrical, musical theatre, acro, and ballet, and is the former owner and artistic director of Eclipse Dance and Performance Cheer. She has also founded and coached numerous high school, collegiate, and All Star dance teams, helping athletes develop strong technical skills, performance quality, and team excellence. Professionally, Jennifer served as head coach and choreographer for the Saskatchewan Rush (National Lacrosse League) and the Saskatchewan Roughriders (CFL) dance teams. Her work also includes organizing and choreographing the pre-game and half-time shows for the 2003 CFL Grey Cup Championship, one of Canada’s largest televised sporting events. More recently, Jennifer has judged provincial, national, and international dance events, including the Canadian Cheerleading Championships and the ICU Junior World & World Cheerleading Championships.

Valerie Stead Potsos

Head Coach of the nationally ranked University of Michigan Dance Team from 2000-2022, Valerie Stead Potsos is the Director/Owner of Dancer’s Edge in Dexter, Michigan. Recently, she traveled to Vienna, Austria and Tokyo, Japan to judge, choreograph and train dance teams around those countries. She has choreographed for professional corporate sponsors including Ford Motor Company and much more. Dancer’s Edge was named as one of the “Top Studios on the Move” in Dance Spirit magazine. Her articles on coaching and dance have appeared in Dance Spirit, American Cheerleader and in Motion Magazines. She is a Seminar presenter, and curriculum consultant for Varsity University on topics such as Motivation, Leadership, Teambuilding and many more. She also conducts and offers UDA Digital Critiques for teams. Along with judging local, state and national competitions, she has judged studio, high school and college Nationals, The Dance Worlds and many other organizations.

Michelle Vincent

With over 40 years of experience in jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical, hip hop and contemporary dance, Michelle Peterson Vincent is a dedicated professional. For 30 years, she has trained young dancers while continuing her own education through conventions and mentorships with renowned choreographers. Michelle’s performance background includes leading West Jordan High as Drill Mistress and dancing with the University of Utah’s Crimson Line. She later became a head instructor and choreographer for Universal Dance Association, judging top competitions, including the ESPN Nationals Dance Championships. For the past five years, she has also served as a judge for AASCF. As the founder of American Dance Academy in 2001, Michelle spent over two decades shaping resilient, versatile dancers. Her global impact includes coaching, choreography and teaching in China, Ecuador and Colombia. Through her passion and expertise, she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers worldwide.

Jazz/Kick Panel

Antonio Bartone

Antonio Barone is an Italian freelance dance educator and internationally recognized adjudicator whose work spans the global dance community. He began his training in Italy at the age of six in both Dance Theatre and Dance Sport, performing and competing at the national level from an early age. His passion for dance led him to London, where he was awarded multiple scholarships to pursue advanced teacher training, earning the highest teaching qualifications in ballet, modern jazz, contemporary, tap, and folk dance. Antonio lectures internationally and is dedicated to mentoring dancers and guiding the next generation of qualified dance educators. He holds a BA in Arts and Humanities from the University of Bologna and serves as a licensed adjudicator in Performing Arts, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, and Pole Sport. Over the course of a twenty-year judging career, he has been invited to officiate at World and Continental Championships, World Cups, international artistic competitions, dance festivals, and major sporting events.

Rachel Domangue

Rachel Domangue, originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, is the former Director of the National Dance Alliance. 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. For over 20 years, she has worked as a dance team coach, choreographer, teacher, judge training consultant and speaker. Rachel has been honored to judge for BCA in England and Scotland, JCDA at the All Japan Cheer and Dance Championship in Tokyo, NDA, UDA, USA, Varsity All Star, The Dance Summit and the USASF Dance Worlds as both a Legality Official and Panel Judge. She also serves on the USASF Dance Rules Committee. Rachel’s daily gig is Director of Business Operations and Development at Glass Staircase, a creative marketing and branding agency that focuses on empowering women and small businesses.

Kelsey Nelson Lack

Kelsey Nelson Lack is a dance educator, choreographer, and adjudicator with over 20 years of experience developing dancers and teachers across the country. A graduate of Oklahoma City University, Dance Management, she has served as a Master Instructor for Dance Masters of America and as a choreographer and Master Instructor for UDA, in addition to adjudicating and guest teaching for over two decades. She is the creator of a cross-training and teaching method implemented with dancers and educators to enhance performance, prevent injury, and build longevity. Before focusing on education, Kelsey performed professionally in Rock of Ages, Anchorman II: The Legend Continues, and Million Dollar Arm, along with corporate events for the NFL Pro Bowl and other national brands. She also collaborates with Thrive Dance Experience, Act 1 Talent, Relative Motion, The Godfrey Method, and additional organizations throughout the dance industry.

Heather Langham

For 13 seasons, Heather Langham performed beneath the bright lights of Radio City Music Hall as a member of the world-renowned Radio City Rockettes, mastering the art of precision, power, and timeless spectacle on one of entertainment’s most celebrated stages. Since stepping off the line in 2022, she has transformed that legacy into purpose, traveling nationwide to mentor and train dance teams in the very skills that defined her career: impeccable kick technique, unified precision, and sustainable strength built across an entire competitive season. A graduate of Arizona State University and co-captain of its first nationally competitive dance team, Heather’s leadership journey began long before Radio City and has continued through more than 25 years with the National Dance Alliance as a Head Instructor, choreographer, and adjudicator. Her presence in the dance education space reflects both deep industry credibility and an enduring passion for athlete development. Over the past 20+ years, Heather’s trained eye and performance perspective have been sought after at many of dance’s premier events including The Dance Worlds, NDA Nationals, COP Brands, USA All Star Nationals, and countless regional and state competitions.

Gretchen Noack

Gretchen Noack’s career in the dance team industry has spanned over 30 years. She graduated from Cal State University Fullerton, with a double degree in Dance and Public Relations and was an honored member of the CSUF Titan Dance Team. She continued her Dance Career as the Dance Program Director for the United Spirit Association (USA) running dance camps, competitions and special events. She continued running the USA Dance Program for 6 years. Gretchen soon became a sought-after judge for state, national and international dance competitions, such as The Dance Worlds and Nationals competitions in the US, Tokyo and Mexico. She also gained a lot of notoriety with competition choreography in the 2000’s for many nationally ranked teams, numerous football halftime shows, international parades and with professional NFL/NBA dance teams. Additionally, Gretchen is the proud owner of “All Star Spirit Productions LLC” a company that produces Parades at Disneyland with hundreds of dance and cheer performers. Her relationship with Disney provides a special opportunity for young dancers to experience performing in a professional capacity.

Emmaline Seyler

Emmaline Seyler has her Bachelor of Performing Arts in Dance Performance from the Oklahoma City University and serves the cheer and dance industry as a performer, choreographer, teacher, and judge. She is currently a dancer at Epic Universe, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Seaworld, where she has performed in Le Cirque Arcanus, Halloween Horror Nights Nightmare Fuel Wildfire, The Festival of the Lion King, Sesame Street Party Parade, Festival of Fantasy Parade, Sirens Song, and more. Emmaline has taught summer dance camps for UDA as a Head Instructor, performed various roles on judging panels with Stage 8, Varsity, International Cheer Union, Cheer Chile, ONP, and judged tryout selections for many dance teams around the nation. She has had the opportunity to teach and facilitate events such as the Citrus Bowl Pregame Performance and Varsity Spirit Spectacular and continues to spread her passion for dance through teaching, performing, choreographing, judging, and entertainment management.

Kerry Sullivan

Boston native, Kerry Sullivan brings a lifelong passion for dance, backed by more than 30 years of training and over 15 years of collegiate coaching experience. She most recently led the University of New Hampshire’s dance team competing in D1 Jazz at the UDA College Dance Team Championships. Prior to UNH, she served as Head Coach for the Harvard Crimson Dance Team. Kerry’s background as a Head Instructor with the Universal Dance Association has taken her around the country, and even overseas to Cesenatico, Italy, teaching and inspiring dancers at both the high school and collegiate levels. Kerry is honored to bring her expertise to the judges’ table. She has held Head Judge roles at multiple regional and national events, including UDA High School Nationals, and is honored to be on the panel for The Dance Worlds.

Andy Vaca

Andy Vaca is an experienced judge of national and international competitions having judged for Stage 8, USA, UDA, and USA Japan. Andy has 40 years of experience choreographing for professional sports dance teams all across the US and continues to do so as a choreographer/instructor for Pro Action Dance. He has choreographed televised halftime shows for the Detroit Lions and the NFL Pro Bowl, and choreographed for the Pro Bowl Cheerleaders. Andy is a Professor of Dance and former Department Chair at Cal State Long Beach where he has taught for over 27 years and where he received the President’s Award for Outstanding Faculty. He creates and performs concert dance work with his company Jazzworks-Long Beach which presents work throughout California. Andy is the former President of the American College Dance Association and is a celebrating 22 years of teaching for the Los Angeles Music Center’s Dance DTLA summer series.

Joyce Winter

Joyce Winter is the Head Coach of the UCF Dance Team. She’s been working in the entertainment industry for over 35 years. After college, she was cast in her first professional Equity job at Disney World. She has toured with Bob Hope’s USO troupe, performed at Tokyo Disney, held a cruise ship contract, and was a dancer for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Joyce just completed her 5th year at UCF. Her team has placed in the Top 5 in D1A Hip Hop at UDA nationals for three consecutive years. Additionally, they medaled for the first time in program history in 2025. Joyce has brought incredible performance opportunities to her dancers as well. They were featured in Disney’s televised Christmas Spectacular performing her choreography alongside Julianne Hough, and worked with the incomparable Mandy Moore and Tessandra Chavez. Outside coaching, Joyce continues to choreograph for competitive studios, as well as NFL and NBA dance teams.

Hip Hop Panel

Saaya Anzai

Saaya Anzai is a Japanese-American movement artist, educator, and holistic performance mentor whose work bridges technical excellence with mind-body-spirit alignment. Raised between cultures, she brings a globally informed perspective to dance education and competitive performance. With a multidisciplinary foundation in dance, yoga, strength and conditioning, Reiki, and youth mentorship, Saaya cultivates performers who are both powerful and grounded. Her approach integrates athletic precision, expressive depth, and mental resilience, using dance as a vehicle for self-discovery, discipline, and personal evolution. She has directed Kaba Modern, served as a director for Culture Shock Los Angeles, and founded the Kinjaz Youth Dance Program, where she pioneered transformative youth development programs. Rooted in kaizen, the Japanese principle of continuous improvement, Saaya guides artists to pursue mastery through intentional growth, alignment, and purpose.

Stacy Garrastazu

With over 35 years of dance experience, Stacy Garrastazu brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the dance industry. Garrastazu has coached and choreographed for numerous studios, schools, colleges, professional sports teams and All Star dance teams throughout her career. Traveling all over the country to competitions, conventions, and workshops, she stays at the forefront of what is new and cutting-edge in this industry. Garrastazu currently teaches master classes and choreography to select organizations, while sitting on numerous judging panels including the USASF Dance World’s from 2014 through 2025. Her extended background has made her an asset to many studios, school, collegiate and All Star organizations.

Daniel Gibson

A Georgia native, Daniel Gibson has been dancing professionally since he graduated from the University of Georgia. He opened his career with a national tour with 13th Floor Performing Arts, where he was a featured performer and choreographer. His formal training includes Gotta Dance Atlanta, the Joel Hall Dance Center where he trained in African, hip-hop, jazz, modern, tap, ballet, and breakdance. He moved to Chicago where he has performed with Culture Shock Chicago, Chicago Dance Crash, the Seldoms, 5 Star Boogie, Elephant Filmworks, the Oprah Winfrey Show, a national campaign for UPS, Johnny Dangerous, and Kid Sister with Kanye West. He was a featured dancer in the short film, “Wonderland or Humans who talk and dance.” He has worked with collegiate dance teams, All Star world champions, the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders, and has been an esteemed panel judge for the USASF Dance Worlds for 10+ years.

Tony Gonzalez

Tony Gonzalez is a creative director and choreographer in Los Angeles with 35+ years in the entertainment world. Specializing in film, TV, stage, commercials and music videos, Tony has worked with top names and shows like Ken Jeong,Tracy Anderson, The Neighborhood, 14 seasons on The Masked Singer, Olivia Rodrigo and more. He’s known for viral dance videos, The Bring it On franchise and has choreographed 350+ commercials. Tony is passionate about movement, energy and creativity and is still active in the dance community, judging and creating for collegiate, high school and pro dance teams. You can see his choreography this summer in the popular Epic Games series “Fortnite”.

Geo Hubela

With over 30 years in the Entertainment Industry, GEO Hubela is a Choreographer, Artistic Director, Host, Dancer & Dance Educator. He is Co-Owner and Director of ICON DANCE COMPLEX in NJ, home of the ICONic Dance Crew from MTV’s ABDC Szn 1 and the ICONic Boyz, Runner Up of Szn 6. GEO has choreographed internationally for stage and screen, danced in feature films, television, music videos and live concert tours. GEO is a leading educator in hip hop workshops across the US and around the World. Recent work includes the Disney Magical Holiday Celebration on ABC. GEO has also choreographed the first ever Live Stage Show for Lionsgate Films “STEP UP” franchise at Motiongate Dubai Theme Park. GEO has also appeared as a dancer in the Original STEP-UP feature film. He is Choreographer for DANCE the WORLD Events by Worldstrides and has choreographed the 2023-2026 Holiday Bowl Halftime Show and Parade in San Diego, CA. As a performer, GEO has danced with some of the biggest stars in the music industry such as Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith, P!NK, Britney Spears, ‘NSYNC, Jessica Simpson, and the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. GEO currently travels the country teaching on faculty for some of the dance industry’s leading convention tours including Showstopper and Turn It Up and is also a UDA Nationals Hip Hop Judge for the past 4 years.

Thomas (TJ) Jacobs

Thomas Jacobs is a New York City-based movement artist, educator, and choreographer originally from Northern Virginia. His foundation in dance culture began training with Culture Shock DC and Freestyle, launching a career rooted in performance, mentorship, and artistic collaboration. Jacobs is a TEDx speaker, Bessie Award nominee, and founder of Pace Setters Dance Company. His work has taken him from concert stages to commercial platforms, collaborating with artists such as Crystal Waters, Betty Who, and Wyclef Jean, and appearing with organizations including BMW, World of Dance, and the Washington Wizards, with recent residencies through Ladies of Hip Hop and Dance Lab NYC. Trained in House, Afro Beats, Waacking, Popping, and Locking, Jacobs has studied with many pioneers of street and club dance culture. His collaborative work commissioned by Stephen Petronio Dance Company was featured in The New York Times and nominated for a Bessie Award for Outstanding Production. With over 25 years in the cheer and dance industry, Jacobs has worked across the field as a coach, director, choreographer, and adjudicator. Today he travels nationally teaching workshops and mentoring dancers and educators, helping them strengthen performance, leadership, and mindset both on and off the floor.

Devin Khoury Kilgore

Devin Kilgore is a nationally recognized choreographer, instructor, and judge with more than 25 years of experience. A four-year member of the University of Alabama Dance Team, she went on to become a 4-time National Championship Coach and Choreographer, leading the first team in Alabama history to capture a national title. Her historic achievement earned formal recognition from the State of Alabama and an honor before the Birmingham City Council for excellence in leadership. Beyond the competitive arena, Devin has served as a spokesperson, director, and runway choreographer for events such as Pure Fashion, collaborating with internationally acclaimed artists including David Foster, Anita Whitaker, Janelle, and Rebecca St. James. As Co-Founder and Creative Director of Dance By Design Team, she specializes in program transformation, innovative choreography, and cultivating strong team culture. An accomplished entrepreneur, she leads multiple businesses, teaches master classes nationwide, creates award-winning routines, and provides professional judging that elevates performance standards and empowers dancers to achieve their highest potential.

Caroline Koch

Caroline Koch is a former Miss Dance Drill Team whose career bridges elite performance and creative production. A national champion team captain, title-winner, and entertainment multi-hyphenate, she began in the studio competition circuit before touring the country as a UDA instructor. While training with Arizona State University’s Hip Hop Coalition, she was cast in Disney’s High School Musical, launching a professional career that includes The Lion King, Fame, Hairspray, Disney’s Christmas Day Parade, and performances with Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber. Caroline refined her style on the Monsters of Hip Hop tour on an apprenticeship from The Jabbawockeez before bringing her dynamic presence to international audiences with Seabourn. Now both performer and producer, work takes her across stages with artists like Bruno Mars, Diplo, and John Legend, music festivals and red-carpet events, bringing artistic insight, industry excellence, and a decade of judge experience to The Dance Worlds judging panel.

Christopher Moss

Chris Moss can be found in the Academy Award film La La Land as well as: Blonde, Gangster Squad, The Muppets, Bring It On: Fight to the Finish, Bring It On: In It To Win It, Bring It On: All Or Nothing, Meet the Spartans, Music and Lyrics, The Hot Chick, Valley Girl. He’s trained actors for their dance roles including Tom Cruise (Tropic Thunder), and Rob Schneider (The Hot Chick). His choreography can be seen in Tropic Thunder, 2 Broke Girls, NFL PROMOS, and several industrials. You may have seen Chris on award shows and television productions such as: The Emmys and Academy Awards, The Masked Singer, Welcome To Chippendales, The Boys, Euphoria, Fuller House, and Dollface. He’s danced and worked some of the world’s most recognizable names: Britney Spears, LL Cool J, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, Whitney Houston, Brian McKnight, Lionel Richie, Hugh Grant, Donald Glover and Ken Jeong to name a few.

Misty RasconSmith

Misty RasconSmith has 20+ years of experience in the dance industry. She’s a passionate, innovative, game-changer, cultivating environments of freedom while facilitating dancers in unlocking their true potential. She’s had the opportunity to work in various areas of this competitive industry, including music videos, commercials, television/live performances, and print. Her extensive training, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Popping, and House, allows her to instruct, choreograph, perform, direct, and adjudicate across the U.S. Misty has created her own style and music, “Tribal Funk”-MistyRasconSmith.com. Her versatility and ability to impart verbally has allowed her to adjudicate various styles of dance for both regional and national events. “Always invest and be great at what you do, never forgetting the greatest investment will be in the people you encounter.” Industry Credits Include: Natasha Beddingfield, Janelle Monae, Vanessa Hudgens, Kirk Franklin, Christina Aguilera, Pink, Snoop Dogg, LeCrae, HP, Sunkist, Pepsi, Nike, Sears, and more.

Laura Rowden

Laura Rowden is from the United Kingdom and has been involved in both dance and cheerleading for 25 years as an athlete, coach, course presenter and judge. Performing from a young age and with a wealth of experience as a coach and choreographer, she teaches a range of styles and specialises in Hip-Hop. Laura regularly judges competitions throughout the U.K and Europe where she has also taken the role as Head Judge. She has been judging internationally for 13 years where her highlights include judging at the IASF Dance Worlds, the ICU World Championships, the ICU European Championships and ICU Cup. Laura holds a Bachelors Degree in Sport and Exercise Science and works as an Assistant Headteacher in a High School in London where she has incorporated Dance as part of the curriculum.

Bonita Saldaña

Bonita Saldaña is a beacon of artistic excellence and a pivotal force in the global dance community. From Phoenix, Arizona to the international stage, her journey began immersed in Breaking culture as a Phoenix Suns dancer, later earning worldwide recognition as a Bgirl. Trained in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, and Tap, she fused technical foundation with Hip-Hop authenticity to cultivate a distinctive, powerful style. She has performed alongside industry icons and been a member of prestigious crews including The Rock Steady Crew and The Beat Freaks. Most notably, she served on the Breaking for Gold USA coaching collective, helping prepare Team USA Breaking for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Bonita is also the co-creator of Levels Hip Hop Curriculum, a comprehensive training system now servicing studios around the world, providing structure, history, and progression in Hip-Hop education. A master teacher, judge, entrepreneur, and owner of The Studance Lab, she leads alongside her husband Gabriel while raising their two talented daughters.

Morgan Schulte

Morgan Schulte has over 25 years of experience in the dance industry. She danced professionally for the NBA Memphis Grizzlies for 6 seasons, and was a 7-year head instructor for high school and college camps through the Universal Dance Association. Morgan judges many competitions for various brands, including UDA, NDA, and The USASF Dance Worlds. She has taught at dance workshops across the country, and puts a fitness flair on her classes. 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 is an Orangetheory Fitness coach, and a dietitian, fitness coach, and wellness speaker through her own business, Motivate.

Mikey Trasoras

Choreographer, dancer, and event director Mikey Trasoras serves as owner and creator of The Art of Movement Dance Convention, that brings back the heART to dance, AO Summer Intensive, and ATP, an assistant program. Some of Mikey’s choreography credits include the sizzle reel for Hawaiian Style, Sarah Jaffe’s music video “Glorified High,” Ivivva Athletica YouTube video promotions, Radio Disney’s Next Big Thing season 5 kickoff in Hollywood, and for the Texas’ collegiate dance team The Apache Belles. Mikey’s students have appeared on So You Think You Can Dance, Abby Lee’s Ultimate Dance Competition, and X-Factor just to name a few. Like his freestyle dancing, Mikey’s choreography is intricate and stylistically innovative. His keen musical ear and captivating artistic expression of lyrics elevate Mikey as a true artist. Mikey has been directing dance events for the past 20 years for numerous companies, building their reputation and level of professionalism.

Darren Wong

Darren Wong is a member of the Kinjaz from NBC’s World of Dance. He is currently the choreographer for the NBA Sacramento Kings Breakers. He has also served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of California, Irvine, and Glendale Community College, and was the Artistic and Creative Director for Culture Shock Los Angeles. Wong has choreographed for nationally ranked High School and College dance teams at UDA and NDA Nationals, with a focus on score-sheet maximization and routine cleaning. His commercial choreography credits include artists such as Nicki Minaj and Rich Brian, as well as professional teams like the Dallas Cowboys Rhythm & Blue and the Sacramento Kings Dancers.

Mickey Yodcham

Tharuekamon ‘Mickey’ Yodchan is a Thai entertainment producer and international judge with over a decade of experience in dance and cheerleading competitions. I served as the Thailand Director of Hip Hop International (HHI) from 2013 to 2023, where I organized national competitions and supported the development of Thai teams for international stages. Since 2020, I have served as an international judge for major competitions including the ICU World Championship, Asian Cheerleading Championship, and International Cheer Union events. She also served as a member of the Cheerleading Thailand Committee, contributing to the development and growth of cheerleading competitions and athlete programs in Thailand. Mickey is the CEO and Founder of Sole U Entertain Co., Ltd., producing international performance projects and cross-border collaborations with global artists, along with being the founder of Sole Street Fest and have organized international dance workshops with renowned dancers, supporting the growth of dance and performance communities across the region.

Pom Panel

Kelly Clement Gaddis

Kelly Clement Gaddis brings over 40 years of dance technical training, professional performance experience, and both dance education & adjudication at the highest levels. She is known for her dynamic choreography and emotive performance workshops. Her repertoire includes studio training, collegiate dance department training, 4-year dancer and captain for the University of Minnesota Dance Team, UDA Camp Instructor, Minnesota Vikings NFL Cheerleader, NFL Choreographer, former choreographer for the University of Minnesota, and professional dancer in movies/industrials. Kelly currently is a dance choreographer, studio teacher, workshop facilitator and judge at the state, national and international levels. She is trained at an elite level in jazz, ballet, contemporary, lyrical, modern, pom, cheer, hip hop, kick, tap, and various other styles. Her choreography has contributed to 6 National Championships, a Gold Medal at Worlds, and various top studio awards. Kelly lives in Minnesota, USA and works in the costume and studio dance industry.

Kira Collins

Kira Collins has experience dancing at the scholastic, studio and professional level. She has over 35 years of experience in the industry combined as a dancer, coach, judge and consultant. Kira’s judging experience includes the state of Wisconsin scholastic, Varsity, UDA, NDA and other event producers throughout the United States, and internationally in Japan. She has had the additional honor of being on the judging panel for The Dance Worlds and The Dance Summit for multiple years. Kira is NDCA, Varsity, UDA, NDA and IASF Certified. Kira is an 8th grade teacher and holds her own consulting and routine cleaning business. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son, being outside, traveling and hanging out with her Great Dane.

Julie Jacobson

Julie Jacobson has adjudicated dance competitions for over 30 years. She has judged for numerous local, state, national, and international competitions during that time, including events in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as season-culminating events such as DTU Nationals, The One, U.S. Finals, Varsity Dance Summit, and The Dance Worlds. She is a retired middle school teacher and high school dance coach, with over 35 years of teaching and coaching. Julie also co-coached the Wisconsin Down Under Teams, which competed in Australia and New Zealand for 15 years. Besides dance, her other passions include her husband, her two dogs, relaxing on her deck with a good book, and making memories with friends.

Emma Munnikhuis

Emma Munnikhis is an international dance judge and accomplished dance professional with decades of experience. She is Head Dance Judge for the Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation, adjudicating State and National competitions and evaluating Australia’s dance categories for World Bids. Over the past 13 years, she has judged globally for the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, USASF/IASF, the ICU European Cheer Union, and FISO World Championships. Trained in ballet, jazz, and contemporary, Emma has also appeared on television nationally and internationally, worked in theatre, commercials, corporate events, and spent 10 years as a dancer and co-choreographer for Australia’s National Basketball League.

Tara Noyes

Tara Noyes is a dance professional and adjudicator who has been immersed in dance since the age of two, finding her home in the studio as a multi-style performer and competitor. She has built a career in leadership and creative direction, guiding and developing athletes across community non-profits, high school programs, collegiate Panhellenic organizations, and All Star programs. A former USASF Dance Coach of the Year nominee, Tara currently serves as a consultant for UDA NDTC Champions. She has guided athletes to national titles and high-point honors, earning recognition for innovation in choreography, technical excellence, and distinguished showmanship and sportsmanship. In her 12th season as a judge, Tara travels to premier national and international events, celebrating the artistry and athleticism of the All Star dance community. She is especially delighted to adjudicate JAMfest Japan and Dance Supernationals, as well as The Dance MAJORS, Dance Summit, and The Dance Worlds.

John Peters

John Peters is recognized as one of the nations most innovative and award winning choreographers. Recent choreography projects include live performances with Warren G., Montell Jordan, French Montana, Bebe Rexha, James Corden, Craig David, Tone Loc and Snoop Dogg. In 2019 he choreographed the NBC Sunday Night Football opener with Carrie Underwood. John is the choreographer for the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders and this past season his work was featured with KATSEYE, international pop group, at the MAMA Awards in L.A. Other pro sports clients include the Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Chargers, Boston Celtics and the L.A. Laker Girls. Worldwide televised features include the 2017 and 2024 Hong Kong Chinese New Year parade, NFL America Bowls in London, Tokyo, Barcelona, Pro Bowl Hawaii, Super Bowl XIX, LIII and LVI. He has choreographed countless winning routines for College, High School, Studio and All Star cheerleading and dance champions. John is a former United Spirit Association Spirit and Dance staff member, Program Director and Creative Director.

Lyndsey Romney

Lyndsey Romney trained at one of Utah’s most competitive dance studios, where she developed a strong technical foundation across all genres of dance. Her versatility, discipline, and performance quality quickly set her apart. In high school, she was a dedicated member of her drill team, served as captain for two years, and received numerous scholarships to a wide range of dance conventions. She continued her education at Southern Utah University, studying Exercise Science while competing as a member of the university dance team. During her collegiate career, she served as captain for three years, strengthening her leadership skills and deepening her passion for mentorship. For the past 16 years, she has worked with National Dance Alliance as both an instructor and head instructor. Four years ago, she began adjudicating for Varsity Spirit and has since become passionate about helping dance programs nationwide grow, elevate standards, and achieve excellence.

Wanda Brown Weir

Wanda Brown Weir is a seasoned dance professional with over 25 years of experience as a performer, coach, and choreographer. A former NBA Washington Wizards Dance Team Director/Choreographer and NFL Washington Commanders Cheerleader, she has led championship collegiate programs at The Catholic University of America and The George Washington University. Since 1999, Wanda has served as a respected adjudicator for local, state, national, and international competitions, including The Dance Worlds and the ICU World Cheerleading Championships. She is the Owner and Creative Director of Premier Dance DC, a sought-after consultant and motivational coach, and appears in national advertising campaigns alongside her family brand, The Wonder Weirs, featured across television and digital media.

Legality

Christian Aleman

A Miami, FL native, Christian Aleman has been involved in the dance industry for 20+ years. Alongside her All Star and high school dance companies, she achieved national team/solo titles. She became a coach/choreographer and ADA staff member. In 2007 Christian relocated to Atlanta and became a company director for Powerhouse Dance. Christian now resides in Chattanooga,TN where she was the owner/director of First Step Dance Studio. She dedicates her weekends to judging National/World Bid events around the world. Christian has developed/taught multilingual courses for ICU performance cheer and is on the USASF rules committee.

Kathryn Brasfield

Kathryn Brasfield is a Knoxville, TN native and is thrilled to be at The Dance Worlds 2026! A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, she was a member of the University’s dance team and earned a degree in Health and Human Performance. She began working for UDA in 2007, instructing dancers and leading camps all across the US. Kathryn is currently coaching two school teams and has helped lead the teams to several state championships, national finalist placements and multiple UDA National Championship titles. In addition to coaching, she choreographs and consults for various school and All Star programs. Her work has earned multiple choreography awards and has helped teams achieve top three finishes at the regional, state and national level as well as UDA and NDA National Championships. Kathryn serves as a USASF legality official for multiple Varsity Brands events.

Gregory Collins

Greg Collins is excited to be back at The Dance Worlds for his 6th year. He has over 30 years of judging experience, in both cheer and dance nationally and internationally. Greg is the NFHS Spirit rules interpreter for Maryland and the state director for cheer and dance for Special Olympics Maryland. He wishes all the dance teams the best of luck during the competition and hopes they enjoy this amazing opportunity and experience.

Kaya Doyle

Kaya received her B.A. in Performing Arts followed by a Master in Architecture and has been combing the skills of both degrees ever since. As an Adjudicator for Dance, each new year of experience brings a depth of movement awareness and a cognizance of spatial utilization that is unique to the judging panel. International judging events include locations such as Japan, Scotland, England, Wales, and several Provinces of Canada, each bringing their own unique cultural experience. Kaya has enjoyed the honor of being a part of The Dance Worlds team since 2012 and revels in the growth and development of the dance industry. Whether it is commenting on a grade school routine at a rec event, or scoring an Open Lyrical routine overseas, the language of dance is a universal experience that resonates within and provides fuel for the passion of our souls.

Nichole Hudson

Nichole Hudson is a former competitive studio dancer and school cheerleader; starting her dance training at two years old. She is a member of the USASF Dance Rules Committee and has been a certified USASF/IASF Dance Legality Official and Cheer Deductions Judge for fourteen years. This has allowed her the opportunity to work for numerous event producers, both nationally and internationally. Nichole has had the privilege of serving on the judging panel for several prestigious post season events like The Summit, The D2 Summit, The ICU World Championship, and has served as a legality official at The Dance Worlds since 2016.

Mindy Johnson

Mindy Johnson is the Managing Director for Studio Go Dance with over 30 years of experience in cheer and dance. Her career is rooted in education, leadership, and a strong commitment to athlete safety. Mindy also brings an extensive background in education and social services, including work with nonprofit organizations supporting underprivileged and foster youth, shaping her athlete-first philosophy. A USASF Legality Certified official, she has judged at The Dance Worlds, applying USASF rules accurately, consistently, and fairly at the highest levels of competition.

Rachael McLeish

Rachael McLeish has over 30 years of experience in cheerleading and dance. Junior high cheering led to a long career as a cheerleader herself throughout her college days. Coaching quickly became her passion after college, and Rachael spent 20 years coaching all ages and ability, from youth through college before moving on to owning/coaching an All Star Cheerleading and Dance gym. After closing the gym and ending her coaching career, Rachael continues to remain in the industry by continuing with USASF Legality Certification with both cheer and dance and also as a judge on many events throughout the United States and internationally. Rachael is thrilled to be at her fourth year at The Dance Worlds.

César Montealegre

César Montealegre is an international cheerleading and dance judge with extensive experience across major global events. He has served as a judge for The Dance Worlds, ICU World Championships, and numerous international championships across the Americas and Europe. César currently contributes to the IASF Dance Rules Committee, where he supports the development of the sport and assists with the translation and adaptation of official documents for the international community. In addition to judging, César is actively involved in education and judge development, having trained judges and coaches in countries including Brazil, Ecuador, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Mexico, and the United States. His work focuses on improving judging standards, execution analysis, and competitive evaluation systems. Originally from Colombia and currently based in Mexico City, César is recognized for his commitment to advancing judging education and promoting consistency and excellence in cheerleading and dance evaluation worldwide.

Robin Page

Robin Page has been judging cheer and dance for over 30 years. She is a member of the USASF Rules Committee and a certified USASF/IASF Cheer and Dance Legality Official. She also holds her Rules Interpreter certification with USA Cheer/NFHS. Robin has judged for various companies, including Cheer & Dance Extreme, The National Cheerleaders Association, The World Cheerleading Coalition (ICC LTD), and the British Cheerleading Association. In 2017, Robin was inducted into the Oakland Mills High School Hall of Fame for her 25 years of coaching and dedication to the sport. In addition to judging cheer and dance, she also spends her time judging talent competitions and pageants nationally. She is currently a choreographer for the Miss American Coed pageant system. Robin is also a professional Sign Language Interpreter with the Howard County Public School System in Maryland.

Kierstin Payne

Kierstin Payne has instructed dance for over 30 years, including over 18 years within the All Star community. She has provided support and served on various USASF boards, including the National Advisory Board, Worlds Advisory Board, and the Dance Rules Committee. Her service on the rules committee began in 2011, and she has been a certified legality official for as long as they have offered the certification. She has served as legality official for multiple high school and All Star events, including Nationals, Worlds bid-giving events, and The Dance Worlds.

Sonia Ramírez

Sonia Ramirez is a highly accomplished professional with extensive expertise as an announcer, panel judge, legality official, and event director. With over 20 seasons of experience in competitive cheerleading and dance, Sonia previously served as Head Instructor and contributed to the program development team at the United Spirit Association. Her career spans judging and directing competitions at national and international levels, including prestigious events such as the Japan Open, ONP Nationals in Mexico City, the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, and the Dance Worlds (2012-2026). In addition to her event roles, Sonia has represented the International Cheer Union (ICU) as a rules educator, delivering specialized training programs for coaches, panel judges, and legality officials across Japan, Mexico, and Panama. Her dedication to advancing the sport and mentoring professionals globally underscores her leadership and commitment to excellence.

Tegan Reeves

Dr. Tegan Reeves bridges her extensive wellness and leadership experience with academic accomplishments to infuse science and spirituality into consulting. Tegan studied dance at Iowa State University, was a company member and scholarship performer as well as part of the inaugural nationally competitive cheer team. She was the founding executive director of USASF Dance and The Dance Worlds. While her award-winning work spans 19 countries and diverse fields, “Dr. T” always cites dance as the foundation of it all—from teaching yoga and mindfulness to understanding what it takes to be a top performing athlete. She went on to study learning from an embodied perspective, earning two masters degrees and a PhD while contributing to the field with peer reviewed research and presentations. After graduate school, Tegan worked with Harvard University and Kripalu retreat center studying a 5-day resilience program for frontline professionals. She took her retreat work to Sensei where she helped design multi-disciplinary, person-centered, wellness retreats. She has worked with professional and collegiate athletes, top executive teams, and high performing individuals from entertainment to law. Tegan combines her fierce intellect with her compassionate affect to encourage the best path for wellness that is both grounded in experience and evidence.

Maggie Allain White

Maggie Allain White graduated from Louisiana State University receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Administration and Business. She has been judging dance competitions since 2012, notably including The Dance Worlds, Dance Summit, JAMfest Japan, JAMfest Dance Super Nationals, UDA National Dance Team Championship, NDA College Nationals and NDA High School Nationals in-person and virtual events. Maggie’s dance accolades include being a member of the NFL New Orleans Saints Professional Cheerleading Team, Dance Team Consultant for teams across the U.S. having her teams consistently rank in the top 5 and win National Championships at National events, USASF Certified Legality Official, USASF Certified Judge and Varsity All Star Certified Judge. Outside of judging dance competitions, Maggie enjoys spending time with her husband and being a mom to her three sons.

Quality

Kristin Best Kinscherff

Kristin Best Kinscherff is Chair of the Department of Theater and Dance at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she serves as Associate Professor, Head of Dance, and Co-Director of the University Dance Company. She holds an MFA in Dance Performance from the University of Iowa and performed professionally with The Big Muddy Dance Company (now St. Louis Dance Theatre). A former Artistic Director of aTrek Dance Collective and Turn of Change Dance Collective, her performance-driven choreography spans concert dance, musical theatre, and festival stages. A veteran adjudicator with over 20 years of experience, Kristin evaluates performers at the regional, national, and international levels. She adjudicates for UDA, NDA, Varsity Spirit, Illinois Drill Team Association/Illinois High School Association, and USASF/IASF The Dance Worlds.

Amy Eichler Passmore

Amy Eichler Passmore has been an instructor, head instructor, choreographer, or judge for Universal Dance Association since 2001, including 19 summers teaching camps and a term on the UDA Program Committee. She has taught and performed in nine countries, leading camps in China, Chile, Toronto, and Colombia, performing at India’s Cricket World Cup, and assisting parades in London, Paris, Rome, and seven years at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. A veteran judge for UDA NDTC and College Nationals, Amy has also worked The Dance Worlds Quality Panel at various times since 2010. She’s a former Arkansas Razorback Dance Team member and former Dance Director at iNFiNiTi Athletics coaching All Star and studio dance for 12 years. With over 25 years of choreography experience, she works with multiple UDA and NDA teams, including her 23rd year with the 11-time Arkansas State Champions and current UDA DI Large Varsity High Kick National Champions.

Jenny Eustice

Jenny Eustice is in her 17th season as the head coach of the University of Iowa Dance Team. She led the team to a 4th place finish in DIA pom in 2023 at UDA College Nationals and a 3rd place finish in the Game Day division in 2022. Jenny was studio trained for 15 years at the Dance Shoppe in Plymouth, Minnesota and a 4-year member of the Wayzata Dance Team. Eustice went on to dance for the University of Minnesota and won 3 national championships (’03, ’04, and ’05) as a dancer, and one as an assistant coach (’06). She was the dance analyst for the UDA High School Dance Team Championship ESPN shows for 9 years.

Raven Gantt

Raven Gantt, a Southern California native, has over 25 years of experience in the dance industry. She is the owner and director of Define Dance Space in Riverside, CA. Raven is also the choreographer and creative director for the Acrobots, the first acrobatic hoverboard dance group, who appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and opened for Justin Bieber. Most recently, Raven’s choreography was nominated for “Best Jazz” by the Industry Dance Awards. She has served as the jazz choreographer for San Diego State University’s dance team for the past four years, creating standout routines including “Proud Mary” and “Conga.” Raven was also a veteran UDA staff member, assisting with choreography and developing curriculum for summer camps nationwide. She continues to work with Varsity Spirit as a certified judge at both regional and national competitions. Raven remains passionate about sharing her love for dance through teaching, choreography, and judging across the United States and abroad.

Brittany Rash

Brittany Smith Rash is originally from Swansea, Illinois and has been dancing since the age of three, studying ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip hop, and musical theater at studios in and around the St. Louis area. Brittany was a member of her high school’s competitive dance team and then 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. In 2016, Brittany graduated with a Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. She resides in Lexington, Kentucky with her husband and two daughters, where she works as a clinical pharmacist at UK Healthcare and remains engaged in the dance community as a consultant with local dance teams and judge for local, regional, and national events.