Co-Owner / Co-Director / Operations Manager

Dance isn't just a passion for Heather—it's a way of life that started when she was a child. Heather started dancing when she was 13 and continued through high school. Those experiences stuck with her to ignite a passion in her for coaching and teaching dance. Heather has over eleven years of experience as a dance coach and an instructor. She is dedicated to fostering talent and excellence in the dance community.

During her tenure as a dance coach, Heather led a JV team to a National Champion Runner Up finish, achieved a historic top ten finish for a Varsity Dance Team at NDTC, and guided multiple Varsity teams to top rankings both nationally and regionally. Heather brings extensive experience teaching a diverse range of dance styles, including ballet, beginner tap, jazz, hip hop, and gymnastics. Her teaching approach seamlessly blends technical training with creativity, fostering a supportive and challenging environment for dancers of all levels.

Heather shares her passion for dance with her three daughters, who collectively have danced for 26 years. During those years, each of her daughters became National Champions. The youngest daughter is currently pursuing dance in a professional capacity. This firsthand experience as a mother has deepened Heather's understanding of the transformative power of dance. It fuels her commitment to supporting and encouraging every dancer who enters her studio.

As a co-owner, she is committed to creating a studio that prioritizes both excellence and proper boundaries, ensuring a safe and inspiring space for all dancers to thrive. She is excited about the journey ahead and looks forward to achieving great things together.

Co-Owner / Co-Director / Finacial Director

Since the age of 12, Stephanie has been immersed in the world of dance, shaping a career defined by passion, skill, and a commitment to excellence. With over 25 years of experience, Stephanie has left an indelible mark on the dance community, excelling as a mentor to young dancers.

For 16 years, Stephanie served as the driving force behind a competitive high school dance team, guiding them to unprecedented success. Under her leadership, the team secured two national titles and achieved nine top 15 finishes on the national stage, cementing Stephanie’s reputation as a visionary coach and mentor.

With a career spanning 23 years, Stephanie has honed her expertise as a leader, crafting a culture that fosters excellence, accountability, and finding your inner greatness. In addition to her leadership prowess, Stephanie specializes in refining dance pieces to synchronized excellence. With meticulous attention to detail, she elevates performances to new heights, ensuring every step is executed with precision and grace. Her expertise in cleaning dance pieces has garnered acclaim within the dance community, establishing Stephanie as a trusted authority in the pursuit of perfection.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Stephanie is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Through a dedicated youth dance program in the community, she imparts invaluable skills and mentorship, empowering young talents to realize their full potential. A true luminary in the dance world, Stephanie continues to inspire with her passion, talent, and unwavering dedication to the art form. Her legacy serves as a testament to the transformative power of dance, touching hearts and minds with every performance.

Co-Owner/Secretary

Brittany Ryers-Hindbaugh is a dynamic professional with a legal background and a deep-rooted passion for dance. Brittany brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to her role as co-owner and secretary of The Summit Dance Collective.

A graduate of Washington and Lee University School of Law, Brittany successfully passed the West Virginia bar exam in July 2020, showcasing her ability to excel in high-pressure environments even amidst the challenges of a global pandemic. Her determination and resilience during such unprecedented times are a testament to her adaptability and unwavering commitment to her goals.

Prior to law school, Brittany earned degrees in psychology and women's studies from Hope College in 2015. During her undergraduate years, Brittany honed her analytical skills and developed a nuanced understanding of human behavior. Her diverse academic background, coupled with her experience studying abroad in London, equips her with a global perspective and cross-cultural communication skills essential in today's interconnected world.

Brittany's passion for dance is not just a personal interest but a professional asset. As a former member of the Swartz Creek Dance Team and the Hope College dance team, she understands the discipline, teamwork, and dedication required for success in both artistic and professional endeavors. She brings this same level of commitment to her role at The Summit Dance Collective, ensuring every aspect of the business operates smoothly and efficiently.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Brittany embraces the challenges and joys of motherhood, finding balance between her role as a new mother and her dedication to her career. Her resilience and positive mindset have guided her through life's obstacles, propelling her towards success in both personal and professional spheres.

In her spare time, Brittany finds solace in rediscovering her passion for running, immersing herself in literature, and embarking on adventures near and far. A firm believer in the power of planning and determination, she approaches every aspect of life with unwavering optimism and a commitment to excellence.

Co-Owner / Chief Choreographer / Artist Director

As a seasoned dancer, teacher, accomplished choreographer, Kayla Ryers brings her artistic excellence and dedication to the sport of dance. With a journey extending over 25 years, Kayla has spent years honing her skills across a multitude of dance genres including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, musical theatre, and more.

During her formative years, Kayla was a four-year member of Swartz Creek's Varsity Dance Team earning captaincy, MVP and technique awards, numerous regional victories, and two top NDTC finishes in Pom. Her commitment to excellence was further solidified during her tenure at the University of Michigan where she became a member of the esteemed University’s dance team.

As a proud four-year Student-Athlete of the University of Michigan, Kayla competed in hip hop and jazz all four years at UDA College Nationals. One of her jazz teams remains the highest placing in the U of M Dance Team history. As a teammate, Kayla competed in a specialized combined Game Day performance with cheer and band. Together they won the NDA College Nationals.

Beyond the competition stage, Kayla found fulfillment in mentorship and instruction serving on the UDA Staff for high school and college camps nationwide. Her passion for choreography blossomed into a multitude of regional and national award recognitions in both studio and dance team realms. Kayla’s choreography expertise includes solos, duets, trios, small and large groups, lines and productions; and for dance teams, small and medium jazz and pom routines, as well as game day performances.

Now, as a part owner of The Summit Dance Collective, Kayla is delighted to inspire future generations of dancers, nurturing talent and fostering a love for the art form that has defined her life's journey. With boundless enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, Kayla is ready to embark on this new chapter, shaping the dancers of tomorrow with her expertise, passion, and love for the sport of dance.

Co-Owner / Social Media Director / Choreographer

Jaclyn first made waves in the dance world at the age of 2! Since then she has been a formidable competitor, capturing hearts and trophies alike with her extraordinary skill and magnetic stage presence. As a National Champion in 2023 at Platinum National Dance, Jaclyn set the standard for precision, artistry, and sheer star power which will allow her to have a “been there, done that” approach in teaching!

With a distinguished career that encompasses both the competitive arena and the professional stage, Jaclyn is a standout luminary in the world of dance. Her journey began on the Varsity Dance Team at her high school, where she made the team as a freshman and quickly emerged as a solid leader known for her unparalleled work ethic and technique. During her tenure, the team achieved several top ten national finishes at the UDA National Dance Competition.

As a dedicated educator and mentor, she has traveled extensively throughout the country as a Pro Apprentice for Platinum National Dance Competition. Jaclyn has conducted workshops and masterclasses in major cities, sharing her knowledge and passion for dance with students from coast to coast. Through Summit Dance Collective, Jaclyn shares her passion for dance with students of all ages and abilities, empowering them to reach new heights and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.

Instructor

A seasoned dancer and dedicated educator whose passion for movement has shaped her multifaceted career. Becca's journey began as a standout NBA dancer for the Detroit Pistons. Under the mentorship of renowned choreographers like Glenn Douglas Packard, David Mayorga, Janelle Ginestra, Rudy Garcia, and Tevyn Cole, Becca honed her craft across various styles including commercial, hip hop, jazz, tap, musical theatre, and acro, allowing her to captivate audiences with her versatility and artistry.

Represented by Icon Talent, Becca's star continues to rise as she graces both the camera and the stage with her magnetic presence. But Becca's impact extends far beyond her own performances. As a teacher, she's known for her unwavering dedication and her ability to inspire and empower her students. For over a decade, Becca has been nurturing talent and fostering creativity, focusing on instilling confidence, discipline, and a love for dance in each of her students. Additionally, Becca's award-winning choreography stands as a testament to her innovation and excellence, earning her accolades and recognition within the industry.

Beyond her work in the studio, Becca's talents extend to costume design, where she brings her creative vision to life with stunning and unique ensembles. Becca embodies the true spirit of a performer, inspiring others with her talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the art of dance.

Instructor

Danielle Smith is a dedicated and accomplished dance educator with a passion for sharing her love of dance. With 20 years of training and 25 years of teaching experience, she has honed a diverse skillset from professional experience.

Beginning her journey in the world of dance at a young age, Danielle was able to perform with prestigious institutions such as the Joffrey Ballet and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, where she developed a deep appreciation for the art.

Danielle started her teaching career with Universal Dance Association (UDA) immediately after high school. Over the course of five years with UDA, she instructed at and led summer camps instilling discipline and dedication in her students. She also judged numerous dance competitions throughout her career with UDA.

Committed to her own academic growth, Danielle pursued a dual degree in Business and Dance from Central Michigan University. This combination of disciplines has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of dance, allowing her to approach teaching with a well-rounded perspective.

Danielle has taught at numerous dance studios throughout the state teaching ballet, tap, jazz, musical theatre, and contemporary. She has received recognition for award winning choreography and produced musical theatre productions.

Danielle is dedicated to providing a supportive and inspiring learning environment where every dancer can thrive and reach their full potential.

Instructor

Kristyn is our energetic and enthusiastic dance instructor who brings the magic of movement to the youngest of dancers! With a background in early childhood education and a passion for dance, Kristyn creates a nurturing and exciting environment where little ones can explore the joy of dance.

Kristyn introduces children to the world of dance in a fun and engaging way. From twirling like princesses to hopping like frogs, each class is filled with laughter, creativity, and lots of smiles.

As an instructor with a love for working with children, Kristyn understands the importance of building confidence and fostering a love for movement at an early age. Through gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement, Kristyn helps each child discover their unique rhythm and expression.

Whether it's their first plié or their hundredth twirl, Kristyn celebrates every little dancer's progress and achievement, creating memorable experiences that inspire a lifelong love of dance. Join Kristyn for a magical journey where every step is a celebration of imagination, friendship, and the pure delight of dance!