OUR MISSION
At Transcend Dance Collective, we are committed to inspiring growth through movement. Our mission is to nurture confident, disciplined, and creative individuals by providing high-quality dance education in a supportive and empowering environment to dance beyond limits.
Our vision is to cultivate a vibrant community where every dancer feels seen, valued, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.
Meet the Faculty
At Transcend Dance Collective, we believe in the power of exceptional instruction paired with heartfelt mentorship. Our staff is more than a team—they’re a family of educators, choreographers, artists, and leaders committed to helping every dancer thrive.
Whether your child is taking their first steps into creative movement or preparing for a national competition, our staff brings expertise, encouragement, and energy to every class. Get to know the instructors behind the passion:
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Shannon Williams
Studio Director | Jazz Instructor
With 17+ years of experience, Shannon leads Transcend Dance Collective with passion, precision, and a deep commitment to excellence in dance education. Her choreography and leadership have earned numerous accolades, and she is known for developing confident, technically strong dancers.
Amity McKiddy
Artistic Director | Choreography, Composition, Lyrical, Contemporary, Turns & Leaps
Amity shapes the studio’s artistic vision with innovative choreography and a strong emphasis on creativity and expression. Her classes challenge dancers to grow technically while discovering their voice through movement.
Jenna Roberts
Competition Director | Lyrical, Contemporary, Turns & Leaps, Acro
Jenna brings over 20 years of experience to her role as Competition Director, blending strong technique with emotional storytelling. Her choreography has earned national titles, and she’s passionate about empowering dancers of all ages.
Krystal Kaszuk
Chief Creative Officer & Social Media Director | Tap & Rockettes
A seasoned choreographer and award-winning instructor, Krystal specializes in tap and precision kick with a creative flair that inspires dancers. Her work has shaped performers who’ve gone on to careers in ballet, Broadway, and professional sports dance teams.
FACULTY
Orlee Glazer
Ballet Director
Orlee brings elite ballet training and over a decade of local teaching experience to her role as Ballet Director. She combines a deep knowledge of technique and anatomy to help students grow with structure, artistry, and confidence.
Laura Underwood
Tumbling Instructor
Laura focuses on safe, strong foundations in acro-dance, helping students build flexibility, control, and body awareness. Her classes prioritize proper technique and injury prevention at every level.
Julianne Rice
Ballet Director
Julianne began her training at The Dance Gallery in Munster, IN, under Amy White Hanas and later performed with the Munster Varsity Dance Team, serving as co-captain her senior year. She went on to earn a BFA in Contemporary Dance from Indiana University and became a founding member of Common Conservatory in Chicago under Terence Marling. Julianne also danced with Aerial Dance Chicago, performing at venues such as Navy Pier and The Auditorium Theatre, and has trained on scholarship with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and the Paul Taylor Dance Company.
Allyssa Sherwood
Ballet & Jazz Instructor
Allyssa has danced since age five and taught for over eight years, bringing joy, discipline, and connection to every class. She loves nurturing younger dancers and building their confidence through supportive, engaging instruction.
Gabriella Thomas
Intermediate & Advanced Hip-Hop Instructor
Gabriella brings high-energy choreography and bold musicality to every class. Her dynamic teaching style empowers students to build confidence and stage presence.
Jennamarie Aboul-Hosn
Ballet Director
Jennamarie has trained and performed both nationally and internationally, with professional experience in Chicago and beyond. A passionate instructor and accomplished performer, she brings a love of dance and a wealth of experience to every class—having portrayed iconic roles like Clara in The Nutcracker and Wendy in Peter Pan.
EARLY CHILDHOOD FACULTY
Becky Lilovich
Explorers | Creative Movement & Pilates
Becky blends early childhood education and Pilates expertise to create fun, strength-building classes for young movers. Her approach helps children develop body awareness, coordination, and confidence from the very beginning.
Amber Tarnowski
Sprouts & Bloomers Instructor | Creative Movement
With a master’s in education and a dance background in show choir, Amber brings a developmentally grounded approach to early childhood dance. Her classes are designed to help young dancers learn, move, and grow with joy.
Payton Lundy
Dreamers Instructor | Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop
Payton began dancing at age three and now teaches with a focus on technical growth, performance quality, and positive mentorship. Her versatile training and passion for teaching shine through in every class.
Lana Glazer
Dreamers Instructor | Tap & Jazz
Lana blends years of dance training with her natural ability to connect with young dancers. Her playful yet structured teaching style builds creativity, confidence, and skill in every student.
Ava Yagelski
Dreamers Instructor | Tap & Jazz
Ava has been dancing since age two and competing since age five, with a strong background in contemporary and jazz. She brings passion, precision, and a love for expression to each class she teaches.
Support faculty
Jennifer Gumz
Performance Preparation Assistant
Jennifer brings 20+ years of Montessori experience and a love for performance to her behind-the-scenes role. She helps dancers shine through expert costume prep, event coordination, and creative support.
Hillary Lundy
Studio Secretary
With a background in HR and project managment, Hillary keeps the studio running smoothly with heart and organization. She supports families and staff with grace, clarity, and joyful dedication.
