Meet the Staff
Click on a photo to learn more about this staff member!
Experience: I trained in all dance styles at In Motion Dance Project in Orlando, FL. I graduated with my degree in Dance Performance and Choreography with a minor in Ministry at Palm Beach Atlantic University. During college, I was a part of Dancing Waters, a dance company in which I traveled to three different countries for dance mission work. In addition to instructing at Bloom, I am the Artistic Director. As part of this role I direct the Ember Performance Team as well as Evergreen Dance Company. Favorite thing about Bloom: The staff all feel like my best friends! Fun fact: I’ve danced on four different continents.
Ali
Instructor
Experience: I received my primary dance training at Western Arkansas Ballet, through a number of summer intensives, and as a member of Regional Dance America Southwest. After receiving my BFA in Ballet Performance summa cum laude from the University of Oklahoma, I danced professionally with American Midwest Ballet and Ballet Vero Beach for nine seasons. I am delighted to continue teaching at Bloom this season!
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love Bloom’s heart behind every program while maintaining a standard of excellence in dance training.
Fun fact: I am currently going to school to become a Physical Therapist Assistant and look forward to integrating that knowledge into my teaching, as I am passionate about injury prevention and healthy dance practices.
Alyssa
Instructor
Experience: I danced at several different studios growing up (age 2 to 18) and spent my Junior and Senior year of High School dancing at the Omaha Academy of Ballet. I also danced with the Omaha Dance Project in high school. After college, I directed a small studio before teaching at Bloom.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love being part of the Bloom team and I love being able to encourage growth and a love for ballet! Nothing makes me happier than to see my dancers falling in love with dance while improving.
Fun fact: I never planned on teaching dance and my college degree is actually in equine management (horses) and history. My other job is giving equestrian vaulting lessons and I realized that I liked working with kids. And when we moved back to Nebraska, I started teaching a couple dance classes and fell back in love with dance as a ballet teacher.
Amanda
Instructor
Experience: I have danced at various dance studios across Omaha, including the American Midwest Ballet school, Kitty Lee, and No Limits studio. I have performed in several ballet productions including the Nutcracker, and a Midsummer Nights Dream.
Favorite thing about Bloom: The loving community that it provides to its dancers, and the way that the teachers know how to create a safe space for dancers of all ages to show who they really are.
Fun fact: I love to travel and have been to many countries around the world!
Ava
Instructor
Experience: I trained for 15 years at a studio here in Omaha starting at three years old. I danced competitively with my studio and spent four years on my high school dance team at Millard North!
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the positive atmosphere at Bloom!
Fun fact: My older sister, Brittany, is also an instructor at Bloom! We used to make up dances when we were little, and grew up performing together. Now, years later we get to continue dancing & choreographing together! When I’m not at Bloom, I work full time in marketing!
Brooke
Instructor
Experience: I grew up dancing and cheerleading. I was a Millard North cheerleader and a dancer in college for the MSU Diamond Girls. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the people at Bloom! Fun fact: I’m an avid learner that has two master’s degrees.
Chelsea
Instructor
Experience: I started dance when I was very young at Omaha Theater Ballet Company. I continued to dance through high school and college where I danced on the Midland University Dance Team.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I am excited about Bloom because of how easy it is to show who you truly are.
Fun fact: I believe glitter is a color and having a little sparkle in every outfit makes it complete!
Ejanae
Instructor
Experience: I began my dance training at a very young age and focused particularly on ballet. I have studied the Vaganova method of ballet for over 20 years and have been trained by world-renowned ballet masters who have molded me into the dancer and teacher I am today. I have attended many classes with Ballet West, Ballet Idaho, and the Pacific Northwest Ballet, as well as competed and placed in the international ballet competition Youth America Grand Prix. I have taught ballet, tap, and jazz to all ages for over 10 years and I have found my true passion lies in sharing my love of dance with my students!
Favorite thing about Bloom: I am so excited to be part of the Bloom family! The focus on fun and education, and most of all the spirit of joy that surrounds Bloom is infectious! Fun fact: I am originally from Southeast Idaho, have lived in Houston, Texas for the last 4 years, and moved to Omaha 2 years ago with my husband and 2 children, Calvin (4) and Anniston (2).
Emily
Instructor
Experience: I have 11 years of ballet training in studios around Omaha and received multiple lead roles in studio productions. I performed with the Omaha Symphony. I was accepted into summer dance intensives with Joffrey Ballet in Texas and Chicago, and Ballet Magnificat in Mississippi. I attended and performed in Regional Dance America for four years.
Favorite thing about Bloom: The pure kindness and encouragement from all the teachers and students.
Fun fact: Frogs have always been my favorite animal since I was two.
Emma B
Instructor
Experience: I started dancing at age six for the sheer joy of dancing and continued my training at two different studios in Omaha, participating in many fun productions. I was trained with a focus on ballet and contemporary. I now dance with Evergreen Dance Company.
Favorite thing About Bloom: I love watching how easy Bloom makes it to fall in love with the art of dance.
Fun fact: I love cats!
Emma K
Instructor
Experience: I have been dancing at Bloom for 6 years, and been on the Ember Performance Team for 2! With a love for Contemporary and Jazz, I enjoy exploring every genre.
Favorite thing about Bloom: My favorite thing about Bloom would have to be watching the dancers grow! Seeing their faces light up as they figure out a challenging step and watching friendships form!
Fun fact: I did horseback riding competitively (english hunter/jumper style) for 2 years and rode for 4! I also have an avid love for photography!
Halle
Instructor
Experience: After graduating from the Scottish School of Contemporary Dance, I danced with Atelier Teatro de Danza, Maya Taylor Dance Company, Metropolitan Ballet and Yuki Tokuda Ballet. I’ve taught ballet all over Omaha and the Twin Cities since 2012. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the warm and welcoming atmosphere and my students! Fun fact: Ballet is my number one passion, but I love making art and being crafty!
Haruna
Instructor
Experience: I have 14 years of dance experience, including dancing overseas for 5 years. I danced in every genre, and I’ve had the privilege of being apart of the Nutcracker and the Ember Performance Team here at bloom.
Favorite Thing About Bloom: I love that everyone has the space to create, with a community of people cheering them on.
Fun Fact: I grew up in South Africa where I would swim with penguins, I had cobras in my backyard, and I have ridden on camels!
Jensen
Instructor
Experience: As a child, I would handstand-walk to the dinner table and make up really amazing dances to perform for my family. After spending years in studio dance and gymnastics, I became a proud member of my high school dance team as well as the Colorado State and Creighton University dance teams.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love that everyone is welcome at Bloom. Dancers can feel confident coming to class, regardless of whether they’ve been dancing for years or have never stepped foot in a studio. All of our teachers have a passion for dance/acro and it spills over into the instruction we give our students.
Fun fact: Two fun facts because I’m just fun: I was born and raised on a farm showing sheep and horses, playing with ducks and riding our pet pig! When I’m not at Bloom, I am busy taking care of my five kiddos (ages 16 to 5 years old)!
Jocie
Instructor
Experience: I received 15 years of dance instruction at 2 studios in Omaha growing up. I danced competitively and was a part of the Millard South Dance Team all 4 years of High School. After High School I spent a season cheering and dancing semi-professionally for a local football team. My passion is teaching younger children. I love being able to implement a solid foundation, and a joy for dance.
My favorite thing about Bloom is the community of people. Everyone here has a genuine passion for Bloom and what it stands for. It’s an absolute honor to be a part of it and these children’s lives.
Fun Fact: I’m a resin artist, and specialize in floral preservation!
Keara
Instructor
Experience: When I was eight years old, I began my dancing journey! I got to compete across the US with my dance studio, clog in the Macy's Day Parade, and dance on my highschool and college dance teams!
Favorite thing about Bloom: The Seeds and Ember program is what drew me and my family to Bloom. Since we have joined, we have fully experienced Bloom's heart! It is a studio that is centered on love and acceptance wherever you are in your dance journey. The teachers focus on building their students' love and ability for dance along with who they are on the inside to be reflected through their outside virtues.
Fun fact: A couple fun facts for you to know me a bit better! I grew up on a farm where I showed sheep and pigs! I was an elementary teacher for 16 years! My husband and I have 3 daughters that I get to homeschool and our favorite family time together is reading, exploring, and camping!
Keli
Instructor
Experience: I started dancing at seven years old. I trained and competed at a few dance studios in the Chicago area such as Finale Studio, American Dance Center, and The Joffrey Ballet. I studied Dance Performance & Choreography at Palm Beach Atlantic University, and have been teaching in Palm Beach County for the last five years.
Favorite thing about Bloom: What drew me to teach at Bloom was the amazing values and mission of the studio.
Fun Fact: I love writing poetry and spoken word!
Kendal
Instructor
Experience: I have been dancing at bloom since I was in 8th grade, so for 8 years now. I was there the first year Bloom opened. Throughout high school I was in teen dance, seeds, hip hop, and lyrical. Hip hop has always been my favorite style of dance by far because I love the upbeat style of it and also you get to express yourself in such a fun way.
Favorite Thing About Bloom: I love the environment that Bloom cultivates. It’s safe and encouraging while also having real expectations for all levels of dancers wether you’ve danced before or not!
Fun Fact: When i’m not dancing, you will most likely find me outside! I love sunshine, sunsets, and seeing the stars
Maddie
Instructor
Experience: I danced all through high school at Bloom trying many different styles over the years including ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary and hip hop. I direct and instruct the Thrive Adaptive Classes at Bloom. Favorite thing about Bloom: There is a place for everyone, whether you’ve danced your whole life or you are new to dance! Fun fact: I am majoring in Pre-Communication Disorders at UNO and am either studying or spending time with family when I’m not dancing.
Makayla G
Instructor
Experience: I began dancing at a young age at Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, training in many styles, followed by Ballet Blake. I graduated from the University of Utah with a BFA in Ballet as the outstanding senior, and a BA in History. I am beginning my first season at American Midwest Ballet, and my first year with Bloom Dance Studio! Favorite thing about Bloom: The kind and welcoming community! Fun fact: I play the violin, and enjoy anything outdoors!
Megan
Instructor
Experience: I majored in Dance Performance and Choreography at Palm Beach Atlantic University, receiving the Outstanding Graduate of the School of Music and Fine Arts in 2019. I then trained with Jose Limon Dance Foundation in New York City and then returned home to the Twin Cities where I danced and taught with local companies. This is my second year instructing at Bloom, and I also serve as Bloom’s Program Director. Favorite thing about Bloom: The heart behind the studio and how dance truly creates an impact in the community. Fun fact: I have traveled to 18 different countries in my life and hope to visit every continent.
MJ
Instructor
Experience: I have been dancing in the Omaha area for about 14 years! I started teaching dance right out of high school, but this is my second year teaching at Bloom! I also am a dancer with Evergreen Dance Company. I love most all styles but especially contemporary, ballet, and tap!
Favorite thing about Bloom: The community! There’s nothing quite like it, both with the staff and the students!
Fun fact: I love hiking and being in the ocean!
Molly
Instructor
Experience: I have danced all my life and have been at Bloom since it openedI I have done many styles of dance including jazz, tap, ballet, pointe and contemporary. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the supportive environment that Bloom creates that allows the dancer to fully be themselves. Fun fact: I love to go fishing.
Olivia
Instructor
Experience: I’ve been dancing for 14 years in Omaha and started dancing with Bloom in 2016. Although my dance focus was on ballet, pointe, contemporary and hip hop, I truly love all dance. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love how Bloom sees value in all people and everyone is treated like family. Fun fact: When I’m not teaching dance, my other passion is singing on the worship team at church.
Penelope
Instructor
Experience: I trained at several dance studios around Omaha through high school. I spent my summers away training with American Ballet Theater, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, and on scholarship with Next Generation Ballet and Oklahoma City Ballet, and went on to get a BFA in dance performance and choreography at University of Missouri at Kansas City, at the Conservatory of Music and Dance. I danced professionally with American Midwest Ballet for two years. I direct Bloom’s annual Nutcracker production. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the students I work with at Bloom! They inspire me everyday! I also love the amazing people I get to work with. It’s rare to find so many amazing work friends! Fun fact: When I’m not dancing, you can see me drinking coffee and reading or going on a walk/run with my husband and super cute puppy!
Remmi
Instructor
Experience: I grew up and trained in all styles of dance in Warrensburg, Missouri since the age of ten. As a teacher assistant I realized I loved to teach dance, so I went on to attend Oklahoma City University where I received a degree in American Dance Pedagogy.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love how everyone is welcomed as soon as they walk in the door! As a new teacher at Bloom, I felt like family from the first time I met all of my fellow staff members, and I see that same family feeling with all of the students.
Fun Fact: I have a 16 year old mini-dachshund named Buster who is my favorite being on the planet!
Sarah
Instructor
Experience: I began my training at Ballet Omaha and Omaha Theater Company. I hold a BFA in modern dance from the University of Arts in Philadelphia. I have over 15 years of teaching experience. I direct the Cultivate Ballet Intensive Program at Bloom.
Favorite thing about Bloom: The opportunity to reach so many students!
Fun fact: I’m a quilter.
Shelby
Instructor
Experience: I grew up taking dance at many different local Omaha dance studios. I loved them all! I was on the Millard North Dance Team my junior and senior year of high school. I was the founder and director of the Kabul Dance Studio in Kabul, Afghanistan and the founder of Bloom Dance Studio.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I truly love our Bloom Community. We have the kindest and friendliest of staff, students and families!
Fun fact: I lived with my family in Afghanistan for seven years - it was a wonderful experience!
Experience: I have NO dance experience whatsoever - but have thoroughly enjoyed using my non-dance giftings/talents/skills to help Bloom BLOOM from the ground up!
Favorite thing about Bloom: The Recitals!
Fun fact: I’m the only GUY on staff!
Justin
Accounts and IT
Experience: I have no experience in dance ... but that is OK for your finance gal! I have a background in Corporate Technology and Finance throughout my 25 year career in business.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love our wonderful team of instructors and admin staff.
Fun fact: I am a Gallup-certified Strengths Coach and LOVE to coach the Bloom staff so that we can be the best staff on the planet (hint: We are!)
Emily
Admin and Finance
Experience: I have a degree in Communications and am the owner of Woohoo Marketing Agency.
Favorite thing about Bloom: All the fabulous parents, kids and staff!
Fun fact: I had fun bungee jumping, paragliding, and ice climbing in Switzerland - but my greatest adventure is my 5 kids!
Julie O
Marketing
Experience: I have a BSBA in Human Resources / Organizational Management; I love administration and working with people! I was a nanny (and babysitter) all throughout high school and college, so I have lots of experience with kids too!
Favorite thing about Bloom: It’s been such a gift to meet and get to know all the wonderful people at Bloom...instructors, staff, and students & families alike!
Fun fact: I am a musician! I have played piano for 17 years and have always loved music.
Hannah
Operations
Experience: I’ve been sewing since I was four years old and have a BS in Fashion Design from The Fashion Institute of Technology. My professional design experience is in childrenswear and womenswear, but I fell in love with costuming after I had children! Favorite thing about Bloom: It is a positive, nurturing environment for our children! The instructors cultivate courage, creativity and confidence in every dancer. Fun fact: I rescue and restore vintage sewing machines.
Cyndi
Costumes and Attire
Experience: I have worked as a nurse, school teacher, and as a Director of a campus for a homeschool program called Classical Conversations. I have been a “dance mom” for 20+ years and have served in various roles in this position.
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the “heart” and vision of Bloom and how the love for dance, the students and families is so evident.
Fun fact: I have seven children and five grandchildren! I like to occasionally indulge in eating jalapeno Cheetos while listening to Michael Jackson or crime junkie podcasts.
Chastidy
Studio Manager
(Oakview)
Experience: I have worked in administration and contracting in the pharmaceutical field for 12 years. Currently I am a tutor for our homeschool co-op program called Classical Conversations. My daughter has also danced at Bloom for many years. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love that Bloom teaches not just dance but character and building confidence! Fun fact: I have 54 nieces and nephews between my husband and myself.
Katie M
Studio Manager
(Blondo)
Experience: I began dancing at the age of five. I then danced competively for 12 years, and continued dancing through high school. I LOVE all things organization, lists and color coding, so the admin world is home to me! I am excited to be back at Bloom after taking some time off to have my 6th baby! Favorite thing about Bloom: My favorite thing about Bloom is that it is one big family. The relationships we form with our students, dancers and team are really like extensions of our family. Fun fact: I know American Sign Language!
Meagan
Studio Manager
(Elkhorn)
Experience: I am an educator turned homeschool teacher/dance mom of two girls. I have always enjoyed working with kids and the ones at Bloom are the very best. Favorite thing about Bloom: I treasure the community, and that all students are loved as they are by instructors, staff and friends. Bloom is a safe place for dancers to grow in confidence and courage. Fun fact: I can often be found on long walks with my 109 pound Bernedoodle while listen to historical fiction audiobooks or education podcasts.
Carrie
Studio Host
Experience: I received my BA in Elementary Education from Asbury College. I taught in Kentucky and subbed at Trinity Christian, while being a stay-at-home mom. Some of my students are now moms of kids that dance at Bloom. (Man, do I feel like a dinosaur!) I grew up in Tennessee and am a huge Tennessee Vols fan! I’ve been married to my college sweetheart for 46 years. Together we have two adult children and most recently added a son-in-law. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the staff at Bloom. They are so fun to work with and such people of integrity. I love getting to know the children and parents. It’s such a wonderful and safe place to work. Plus Bloom fulfills one of my passions, which is decorating, including the flower pots and Christmas decor. Fun fact: I’ve always wanted a corgi and my last birthday my husband surprised me with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy! His name is Tater Todd because he looks just like the fox from the movie “Fox and the Hound”.
Jen
Studio Host
Background: I have a nursing degree and worked as both a NICU nurse as well as a childbirth educator prior to homeschooling my three kiddos. Favorite thing about Bloom: It truly feels like one big family where everyone is welcome exactly as they are! The positive environment creates a safe space for children to grow as individuals and as dancers. Fun fact: I grew up dancing and my favorite class was tap! My husband Mike and I have three daughter who share the love of dance.
Andrea
Studio Host
Experience: I have been a homeschool mom for 20 years and my youngest of five just graduated! is graduating in the spring. I love all things having to do with organization! Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the people at Bloom. The staff and instructors are fabulous. The families that come to the studios each week are wonderful. The relationships that are built at Bloom are truly a blessing. Fun fact: My idea of a good time is cup of tea, a fuzzy blanket, and a few episodes of Andy Griffith!
Christa
Studio Host
Experience: My education, training, and experience have led me to a place where I really enjoy meeting new people, making sure that problems are solved, and ensuring things run smoothly. Favorite thing about Bloom: I love all the smiles I see. The teacher smiles as they greet each student, the student smiles as they master a skill and have fun doing it, and the parent smiles when they realize Bloom is a safe and caring place for their child to enjoy dance. Fun fact: The best things in my life are that I am still in love with my high school sweetheart (husband), I adore my 3 amazing kiddos, and a recently added a daughter-in-law to our family!
Julie
Studio Host
Experience: I am an elementary school teacher turned homeschooling mother to five children. I've been a Bloom mom for five years with my four daughters and I am thrilled to join such a wonderful team as a Studio Host.
Favorite thing about Bloom: The positive and encouraging environment! Bloom offers excellent instruction and is a safe place to try new things and grow in confidence. I especially love the people.
Fun facts: I really love good food and coffee!
Lindsey
Studio Host
Background: I just graduated this spring with my Psychology degree and am now working on my masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling! This is my second year at Bloom!
Favorite thing about Bloom: I love the culture of Bloom! They make every student and staff member feel seen, valued, and believed in! It is like one big family!
Fun Fact: I played volleyball in college and am passionate about the sport! I also love wake boarding, worshipping, and getting coffee with friends!
Anna
Studio Host
Experience: My daughter has been dancing with Bloom for 6 years and I have helped in the costume/attire department at Bloom in the past recital seasons, steaming costumes and helping with fittings. I have a bachelor degree in Animal Science from Iowa State University and a Masters degree in Biology. I work full time as a poultry vaccine scientist and use my organizational and creative skills in my part time role at Bloom.
Favorite thing about Bloom: The whole Bloom community has such a positive and welcoming energy. I love that their focus isn’t just building dance skills, but also building confidence in the dancers.
Fun fact: My family and I travel with our fifth wheel, camping all over the United States. I love all things nature and camping.
Shannon
Costumes and Attire