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Ignite Dance Co
Our Story - How Ignite Came to Life
In 2012, founder Shawna LeeAnn Kassuba envisioned Studio U: Center for Fine Arts and Movement — a space where every human could reconnect with their “brain-body,” rediscover joy, and experience the healing power of movement. It was envisioned not only as a place to dance, but as a space to be—to breathe, move, and heal for a piece of time.
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When management changes and financial realities reshaped the path forward, Shawna adjusted course to keep the dream alive. She expanded into children’s dance and gymnastics to sustain the space, building a vibrant community filled with laughter, rhythm, and tiny tap shoes. What began as a universal space for healing soon became known simply as a dance studio for kids.
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Over time, the programs flourished, and success followed—but something still called from within. The energy had grown big, bright, and busy… yet far from the deeply personal and restorative vision that first lit the spark.
The Heart Behind the Studio
With reflection and courage, Shawna chose to return to her roots—creating Ms. Shawna’s School of Dance, a smaller, heart-led studio where kindness came first and technique followed. For nearly a decade, it thrived as a place where every dancer belonged.
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The team entered competitions knowing trophies weren’t the goal—connection, courage, and authenticity were. Judges often noticed that unspoken “something special,” a light that set them apart: the power of heart-led movement.
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Though the experience was deeply rewarding, Shawna still felt called to something broader—to restore dance as a pathway for healing, not just performance.
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Partnering with another local studio to ensure her dancers had a continued home, and with the shared vision of passionate board members—including a beloved dance mom and long-time instructor who shared her original mission—Ignite Dance Co. was officially founded on Valentine’s Day 2022.
The Evolution of Ignite
From day one, Ignite’s mission was to empower and ignite individuals through the art of dance.
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​As Shawna furthered her studies in Children’s Dance Education at the University of Michigan and continued graduate-level work in Positive Psychology at Arizona State University, that mission evolved into something even more profound.
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Ignite became not only about dance—but about healing, hope, and human connection.
It became a bridge between art and science—where creative movement is recognized as a protective factor, helping people regulate emotion, build resilience, and rediscover joy.
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The evolution of Ignite has been shaped not only by vision, but by the people and partnerships that continue to pour their hearts into it.
A special acknowledgment goes to Sue Steffel—an original dance mom turned dedicated board member, public-school teacher, and mother of three. Sue has been a steady force—spending countless hours sound-boarding ideas, offering wisdom, and helping shape Ignite’s growth with her insight and love for children. Her support and partnership have been instrumental in transforming the dream into what Ignite has become today.
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Gratitude also extends to our current Elevate Dance Team—the dancers and dance moms who have gracefully embraced this season of transition. Their belief, encouragement, and willingness to grow alongside this evolving vision have created space for transformation to take root.
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Shawna also wishes to express deep appreciation to her husband, whose unwavering support has helped bring every vision to life. From building two studio spaces and hauling equipment for countless events, to serving as her personal IT tech, soundboard manager, and steadfast encourager, he has been there for every step and every song. He’s turned dance competitions into date-night adventures and listened to more ideas than one lifetime should hold—all while reminding her, when life gets blurry or time-consuming, that dance is who she is—and they will always make space for it.
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Finally, a heartfelt thank-you to our community partners who have stood alongside Ignite through transitional seasons—offering studio space, sponsoring events, donating resources, and opening their doors to make this mission possible. Your generosity and belief in the power of movement have allowed us to continue spreading light, even in times of change.
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At Ignite Dance Co., movement isn’t just art. It’s healing in motion.
