Our Philosophy

Asimina began dancing at the Dearborn Dance Academy at the age of three under the direction of Patricia Mortens. By 15, she was student teaching, and by 17, a full-time instructor. Today, she is proud to carry on the studio’s 35-year legacy as its new owner and artistic director.

With over 30 years of dance experience and nearly 20 years of teaching, Asi is passionate about inspiring creativity, discipline, and joy through movement. Her training includes Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in NYC, as well as studies at Wayne State University and Western Michigan University. She has performed at venues across metro Detroit, including community events and charity benefits.

Asi also brings valuable business experience from her work in the legal field, helping to ensure the studio remains a welcoming and well-run space for dancers and families alike. With a background in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, and hip hop, she is committed to honoring the studio’s tradition of excellence while nurturing the next generation of artists.

Amber is truly part of the heart and history of Dearborn Dance Academy. A proud DDA alum, Amber began dancing at the studio as a little girl and never left. Over the years, she has studied and taught ballet, tap, jazz, and gymnastics, and now leads our gymnastics program with the same energy and care she brings to every class.

Amber has been with DDA longer than any other instructor, and her impact is felt in every corner of the studio. She has taught hundreds of students—many of whom still remember her as their very first teacher. Her classes are known for being high-energy, positive, and always filled with encouragement.

Beyond the studio, Amber has worn many hats. She holds multiple Zumba certifications—including Zumba, Zumba Toning, Zumba Kids, and Zumba Gold—and spent years starting and coaching cheer programs in local Dearborn schools. 

Though she eventually “retired” from cheerleading to begin a full-time career with Ford Motor Company, her passion for teaching never left.

Amber’s story came full circle as she shared the studio with her daughter, a second-generation DDA dancer and instructor. 

Her lifelong connection to the studio, her students, and the community make her a truly special part of the DDA family.

Amy began her studies at the age of 3 as a student of Patricia Mortens  where she studied for 17 years.  While at DDA, she studied classical ballet, tap and jazz. She became a teacher at the studio at age 17. 

In addition to DDA, Amy studied at Steps on Broadway, Broadway Dance Center and Oakland University. 

In 2013, Amy returned to teaching as a Zumba instructor at DDA and then expanded to teaching ballet, tap and jazz, which she continues to do so today. She strives to challenge her students and inspire them to be the best they can be. 

Amy has a Bachelor's Degree in Communication and a career in advertising. But her true passion is sharing her love of dance with the next generation of dancers. 

Amy has two daughters who study at Dearborn Dance Academy.

Elizabeth began dancing at the age of eight and quickly fell in love with the art form. Not long after she started, she was invited to be a classroom helper, then a student teacher, and by the time she was 17, she had become a full instructor at Dearborn Dance Academy.

Elizabeth recently graduated from Albion College in 2024, where she studied English Literature and Music. During her time there, she was a proud member of the Albion College Choir, continuing to develop her musicality and performance skills beyond the dance studio. 

Her background in music gives her a unique approach to teaching, blending rhythm, expression, and technique in every class.

While Elizabeth began her dance journey with ballet, she soon discovered a love for tap and jazz as well, and she now enjoys sharing all styles with her students. 

Her vibrant energy, love of the arts, and natural connection with children make her a joyful and inspiring presence in the studio.

Gina has been with Dearborn Dance Academy since she was 3 years old, taking classes in ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics, and baton. 

Over the years, Gina became a classroom helper at the studio, which turned into student teaching and becoming a full time teacher at 16. 

Gina is currently studying Elementary Education at the University of Michigan - Dearborn, and loves how teaching at the studio lets her combine her love for dance with her passion for working with kids! 

Kelly began her dance journey at the age of 5, training under the esteemed Pamela Dunworth and Patricia Mortens. With 16 years of dedicated teaching experience at DDA, she has established herself as a passionate and skilled baton instructor. 

Baton twirling combines elements of dance, gymnastics, and performance, requiring strength, flexibility, and artistic expression, all of which Kelly emphasizes in her teaching approach. A former elementary educator, she brings a unique blend of discipline and creativity to her classes, fostering an engaging environment where students can thrive. 

Kelly specializes in choreographing routines for all ages, utilizing a variety of props including batons, flags, ribbons, hoop batons, and lighted batons. Her students are showcased in parades, talent shows, and recitals, captivating audiences with her innovative performances. 

Her commitment to nurturing her students' skills and expressions enriches the dance community, making Kelly a valued mentor for aspiring dancers. Join her in exploring the art of baton twirling and discover the joy of movement through rhythm and creativity. 

Maddie has been dancing at Dearborn Dance Academy since the age of 3 and became an instructor at the age of 17. 

In addition to her experience at DDA, she was also the student choreographer of the Allen Park High School Drama Club and the former director of the Teddy Bear Preschool Ballet Program. 

She loves sharing her passion with the next generation of dancers and hopes that her classes are equally fun, challenging, and welcoming. 

Maddie's background in dance led her to an interest in sports medicine, and she currently a pre-PA student at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. 

Ryan has been dancing since early childhood and brings a  passion for movement, performance, and teaching to the classroom. She has trained in a variety of styles throughout her dance journey and loves helping young dancers build confidence, technique, and creativity.

In addition to teaching at Dearborn Dance Academy, Ryan recently graduated from the University of Michigan–Dearborn with a degree in English [?}.  

While earning her degree full-time, she also played on the university’s varsity soccer team, balancing academics, athletics, and her continued work as a dance educator.

Her energy, discipline, and love for both the arts and sports help her connect with students of all ages. She is excited to share her experience and enthusiasm with the next generation of dancers!