06/07/2026
Some dancers leave behind trophies.
Some leave behind memories.
Violet leaves behind stories. 😂💙
After 14 years at Heinz Academy, it's hard to imagine the studio without her.
When I think of Violet, one of the first memories that comes to mind is from when she was little. Somehow, she managed to shuffle-ball-change herself right in the shin. On her birthday, no less. The problem? I didn't have an ice pack.
So naturally, I did what any responsible dance teacher would do...
I handed her a frozen Hot Pocket and told her to put it on her leg. 🌟
I'm not sure that's covered in any dance teacher training manual, but somehow we survived.
Over the years, there have been countless moments like that. Moments that make you laugh years later. Moments that remind you that growing up in a dance studio isn't just about learning steps—it's about growing up together.
One of my proudest moments was watching Violet step completely outside her comfort zone when she auditioned to play the Caterpillar in our production of Wonderland. Taking on a featured role wasn't something that came naturally to her, but she did it anyway. She challenged herself, trusted herself, and absolutely rose to the occasion.
That has always been one of Violet's greatest strengths.
She quietly keeps growing.
She quietly keeps showing up.
She quietly becomes the person everyone around her can count on.
Over the years, she has grown into an incredible leader in our studio. She has a special gift for making younger dancers feel seen, welcomed, and important. Whether she was helping in class, encouraging a nervous dancer, or simply offering a smile, she always led with kindness.
And one thing I will always admire about her: she was never too "cool" to dance with the younger kids.
You don't find that very often.
No matter her age, no matter her level, she was always willing to jump in, help out, and make someone else's experience better.
That says so much about who she is.
This fall, Violet will begin a new adventure at Iowa State University, where she'll study Software Engineering and Computer Science. I have no doubt she'll approach this next chapter the same way she's approached dance—with determination, humility, curiosity, and a willingness to keep learning.
Violet, thank you for 14 wonderful years.
Thank you for the laughs, the memories, the leadership, the kindness, and yes...the opportunity to discover that frozen Hot Pockets can apparently double as medical equipment.
We are so proud of the young woman you've become.
No matter where life takes you next, you'll always have a home here at Heinz Academy. ❤️
Congratulations, Violet. We can't wait to see what you do next.
