Hello

Ignite Dance Co. was founded by Shawna Kassuba, an educator, nonprofit leader, and advocate for creative approaches to resilience and belonging.

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Shawna holds a Master’s degree in Positive Psychology from Arizona State University, where her work explored how human connection, creativity, and emotional regulation contribute to human flourishing and well-being.

Movement and dance have been a constant presence throughout Shawna’s life. She has taught dance for over a decade and studied children’s dance education at the University of Michigan, where she deepened her interest in how movement supports learning, expression, and confidence in young people.

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Her professional background includes youth development, community engagement, and statewide work supporting family-driven and youth-guided initiatives within Michigan’s mental health and support systems.

Shawna’s perspective is also shaped by her experience as the mother of a child with additional support needs, which has further strengthened her commitment to creating environments where all children feel seen, supported, and able to belong.

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Throughout her life, movement and creative expression have served as a grounding practice and a pathway to connection, confidence, and personal growth. Through Ignite Dance Co., Shawna continues to explore how creative movement and relational environments can support resilience, belonging, and transferable life skills for children and communities.