Alyssa Mann (Teacher, Dance Program Director)

Alyssa is originally from Minnesota where she began to dance 16 years ago.  She started college in Chicago but transferred to KU after a year and a half to pursue a degree in dance.  She has competed, choreographed, and been awarded for many styles of dance throughout her life.  She is looking forward to more time teaching at LGA and being a part of the dancers’ experience in learning.  After she graduates in 2012, she will seek a profession in the dance industry.

Amanda Davis (Substitute Teacher)

Amanda Davis joins the staff at LGA this year, bringing fifteen years of dance experience with her. Before taking a brief dance hiatus to complete her degree in English Education at KU, she enjoyed teaching ballet and tap classes at the Aberdeen Recreation and Cultural Center in Aberdeen, South Dakota, where she received her own dance training. Amanda is thrilled to call LGA her new dance home!

Krista Mitchell (Substitute Teacher)

Krista, originally from Kansas City, came to the University of Kansas last fall to study math education. In high school, she trained at an arts school for 8 years where she studied ballet, pointe, lyrical, contemporary, and her favorite style, jazz. She performed with her studio’s company for 4 years as well as taught preschool and beginner level jazz, and ballet classes. Krista is very excited to kick off this dance season at LGA, where she can share her love for dance with others.

Elizabeth Smith (Teacher)

Elizabeth is a Junior at the University of Kansas and is majoring in Journalism with a focus in advertising. She is from Naperville IL a suburb outside of Chicago. She has 16 years of dance background, including the styles of hip hop, jazz and pom. She has been on two national champion dance teams, and has also worked with famous hip hop choreographers throughout her years of training. She loves teaching, especially hip hop and can not wait to share her love of dance to her students.

Maria Thompson (Teacher)

Maria owned & operated 2 dance studios for 10 years.  In prior years, she taught for local studios & studied at renowned dance centers including The Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance & Broadway Dance Center in New York City.  She was fortunate to study under the direction of Ruth Andrien (formerly of the Paul Taylor Company), Mia Michaels (So You Think You Can Dance), Eddie Mecca (best known for his role as ‘Carmine’ on “Laverne & Shirley”) & tap legends LaVaughn Robinson & Phil Black.  She is a 1993 graduate of The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Dance Education.  An experienced teacher for all levels, Maria is happy to bring her experience & enthusiasm to our dance program.