LEAP Class of 2025
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Congratulations to the LEAP Class of 2025!
Olivia Brothers
Congratulations!
Nicole Bui
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
Aside from classes with Professor Christian De Matteo, one of my favorite memories from this program was the acting challenge course. It was fun to slip into another character, especially one that was so relatable and unserious.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
One of my favorite performance highlights is dancing on outdoor stages - from Jacob's Pillow's Henry J. Leir stage to Carmel's valleys, and Italy's architecture - it has always been quite incredible to have nature as your backdrop and an intimate connection with the audience.
Carmen "Michele" Chavez
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
One of my favorite memories was being surrounded by fellow dancers and actors with whom I had shared incredible experiences working on live stage productions, films, and television projects. I remember how we all let go of our fears about being back in class, finding comfort and strength in leaning on one another.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I’m definitely excited to teach college-level Dance Majors in the Contemporary Modern space. At the same time, I will be pursuing my master’s in administration, which will align with my goal of opening a charter performing arts middle and high school in the very near future.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
I’ve been blessed to travel both nationally and internationally throughout my 30-plus-year career, working as a contemporary modern and commercial dancer, choreographer, stunt artist, producer, stage manager, and production coordinator. The experiences and lessons I’ve gained along the way have been truly incredible. I have so my many stories that I cherish. Performing with Shelia E. at Prince's LA property for an Oscar after party was a major highlight, being on the same stage as a dancer for two separate gigs with Jimroquai, and the Spice Girls for the Billboard Awards were pretty awesome. Without a doubt, I was deeply inspired by my mentor, Ka-Ron Brown Lehman, to 'hone in' on my modern and ballet technique, to strengthen my abilities both physically and emotionally as a young dancer. She taught me that love, passion, and tenacity for your craft will radiate from every part of your being—whether you're moving through chaos or standing in the stillness of solitude. I continue to pass on this powerful mantra to my daughter and students, encouraging them to embody the same spirit in their own journeys.
Robin Hart Cohen
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I have many wonderful memories, but if I had to pick one memory it would be the first day we all got together in Los Angeles. We were the first Los Angeles class and I remember thinking how grateful I was that LEAP was providing us this great opportunity. It’s been a long road for me, but I finally did it!!!
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
Writing the PPA papers inspired me, so I am considering writing a book!
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
The George Lucas Super Live Adventure Show was one of my favorites! We toured Japan for 6 months and it was an incredible experience.
Sean Critchfield
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I have so many. However, the thing that comes to mind the most is the range of emotions in the zoom classrooms. Even though we meet in the digital space, we as a co-hort were deeply connected. We laughed with each other, struggled with each other, and cried with each other. I guess my favorite memory is the deep admiration I feel for my fellow LEAP students and teachers.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I am hoping to pursue a master's degree in arts therapy.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
I was in Tournament of Kings on the Las Vegas strip for more then a decade. I was in the award-winning immersive show Particle Ink on the strip as well. And I was so lucky to be a hero on Queer Eye Season 9.
Karama Ayanna Dawson
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
One of my favorite times in the program was actually going through the process of completing my Capstone Project. It was such a wonderful experience with my professor (Shoutout to Prof Kendra Barnes!) throughout and was not only academically fulfilling, but personally fulfilling as well! Also, my final course with Shauna Vella was a wonderful culmination of what the LEAP program is about. Honestly each one of my professors, mentors, and advisory team at Saint Mary’s has been incredibly supportive and instrumental in my journey. I am forever grateful for the tremendous amount of leadership, dedication, encouragement, and empathy they all displayed.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I am very interested in bridging the gap for performers to exploring their business endeavors and creating stability for themselves. I plan on pursuing my graduate degree so that I can facilitate this for dancers in the future. So many of us are thrown into the industry and it would be wonderful to have a map of ways to survive and thrive in the arts.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
One of my favorite performance moments is my final performance in New York before moving to California. It was because my parents were there watching in the audience. It was rare that they got to see me dance professionally because of performing in cities outside of my hometown. I just remember feeling like “this is what it was all for!"… in reflecting how much they sacrificed to make that dream happen.
Victoria F. Dolph
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the program. It was both challenging and rewarding, fostering significant personal growth. I would like to especially acknowledge Professor Jim Iler, Christian De Matteo, and Shaunna Vella for their exceptional support and impact throughout my experience.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I look forward to continuing my education at Saint Mary's through the MFA program. As an educator, I believe it is essential to remain a lifelong learner and to continually seek opportunities for growth. I am especially excited to deepen my exploration of choreography, refining my creative process and expanding my artistic voice within the program.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
My most treasured memories from my career include the incredible privilege of training and dancing professionally under Madame Nathalie Krassovska, who passed on her choreographic lineage directly from the original masters—a rare and deeply treasured experience. Being part of the Ballets Russes lineage through Madame Krassovska connects me to a rich, historic tradition of artistry and innovation in dance.
Kylie Victoria Edwards
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
When I first started LEAP, classes were held in Midtown on W. 38th st. Sessions were once a week, long, and held on Sunday evenings - so naturally we had a dinner break. I have fond memories of Prof. De Matteo in Western Tradition, trying to coordinate and order a specific cuisine for everyone - only to default to Italian each time. Those moments of community during the “in-person” days were so healing and essential. I'm still very close with many of those classmates, and when we pass each other from time to time in the city, there is a depth of pride that goes beyond the norm - having seen each other as both scholars and artists.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I have been tossing around the idea of applying for an MFA, or exploring scriptwriting, or maybe even pursuing research in English or Literature down the road. Right now I'm extremely focused on my acting career now that my academics are complete.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
George Balanchine's "La Source" & "Serenade." Broadway 1st Nat. Tour of Anastasia. “The Gilded Age" and "Westworld" (HBO), and most recently guest starring on "Law & Order," (NBC), "FBI: Most Wanted" (CBS), and "Gladiator: American Sports Story" (FX). It's funny - I first enrolled at Saint Mary's as a classical ballet dancer, transitioned to musical theater, and now I'm graduating primarily working in TV/Film. LEAP has truly seen my full evolution as an artist!
Yuka Fukuda
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
When I discovered that I actually liked math and started doing all the extra assignments just for fun. I remember being so nervous and nauseous before my first class. I also enjoyed all the breakout sessions to speak honestly without the professors around!
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
To lead a high school and collegiate dance department, earn an MFA, and serve as a strong advocate for dancers of color, both in education and in the professional dance industry.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
Performing with Ailey II in my early twenties and returning to the stage with LA Opera in my forties—this time in front of my children—are two of the most meaningful milestones in my career.
Jennifer Holoubek
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I loved having discussions with my amazing classmates and professors. I was always blown away by the insight my classmates brought to the discussion, as well as their kindness and encouragement. Shout-out to Professor Todd Courage, my first LEAP professor, who set the bar so high as a supportive, brilliant, and generous instructor!
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I've started my own small pick-up ballet company in Chicago, called Ballet Harmony Chicago. I am excited to continue growing the organization as well as directing and dancing in it.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
Getting to rehearse and perform Principal Russian Girl in Serenade, Dark Angel in Serenade, and Odette in Swan Lake. The most special moments of these roles came from the time I spent rehearsing with amazing coaches - absorbing all of their knowledge and feeling their support - and rehearsing with my fellow coworkers and friends - lifting each other up and growing as dancers and artists together. These are the moments that I will always cherish.
Victoria Jaenson
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
One of my favorite memories was connecting with my high school pre-professional program roommate Claire Rathbun Solis. It was so nice to have our paths cross again in this education journey while both still on our professional dancing journey. It shows that this program can find us in many different places in our careers and lives.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I hope to continue my artistic journey and potentially pursue leadership positions in the future. Simultaneously, I want to contribute to international relations work throughout the rest of my career.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
This past Fall I had the opportunity to debut as the Princess of Unreal Beauty in my company's version of Firebird. It was so great getting to be a principal in a piece with such beautiful music by Stravinsky and also having this version set in a South African forest. This story choice felt empowering as an African ballerina.
Sarah Lane
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I loved the in-depth, nonjudgmental discussions with my classmates and how those conversations opened my mind and helped us all bond as friends beyond the program!
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I hope to continue to create, whether that is dancing, directing, choreographing, living life with others, or developing my new charity organization!
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
The highlights of my performance career are those moments when I was lost in the moment onstage and was able to find my own authenticity and humility in those moments. In addition, traveling around the world has given me a more empathetic and celebratory perspective of other cultures, religions, personalities and humans.
Tess Lane
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I loved writing my final paper for my first seminar class—we had the option to write creative papers which tied together the works we had read throughout the semester and it was such a fun way to flex a different creative muscle!
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I'm hoping to transition out of dance into some sort of work that still involves people and teamwork, and I'm considering a graduate program.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
I've loved many of the pieces I got to dance at Smuin Ballet, but I think my favorite performance was dancing Trey McIntyre's Blue Until June. I also loved dancing the Peasant Pas de Deux in Giselle and many of Septime Webre's works while at California Ballet.
Alison Levenberg
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
Professor De Matteo’s classes are definitely one of my favorite memories from the program. Another standout is doing my Capstone with Professor Vella who was the most sincere, inspiring and supportive guide. Each course within the program had highlights I will cherish, whether it was academic or personal discoveries and breakthroughs or the connections with fellow LEAP students. The solidarity in our Sunday and Monday evening classes was felt through the zoom screen!
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I am teaching in higher ed and hope to progress to a Master's Degree. I have also been encouraged to have some of my writing published, so we’ll see where that goes!
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
Radio City Rockette, “42nd St” Broadway, “Billy Elliot” Broadway, “The Producers” Movie, Associate Choreographer for the first UK Tour of “Billy Elliot”.
Jane Rehm
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
My most memorable experience in the LEAP program was the coursework for Constructing Knowledge, taught by Kimmy Johnson. Kimmy brought so much wisdom to the course, that I believe all of us gained insight into ourselves, each other, and the world around us. I’m very grateful for that academic experience, and recognize that it was a unique opportunity to learn in that way.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I have developed a new passion for California’s native flora, and hope to work in propagation of native plants. I have been studying at Santa Rosa Junior College for a few years, and plan to get a certificate in Natural Resources Management. Clearly, I’ve taken a sharp turn away from my career as a dancer, but I find there are a surprising number of applicable skills that translate over – which I’ve always heard would happen, but had a hard time believing!
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
Any time I was given the task of telling a story, or expressing a feeling or idea through dance, I was happy. The moments that stand out in my memory are the ones where I knew I had something to say, and that dance was the only way to say it. Since I have stopped dancing, I see performance as a language – one that most dancers only get to speak briefly, but continue to carry into whatever comes next.
Photo Credit:
La Belle Mère, choreographed by Julia Adam. Photography by David DeSilva.
Sequoia Rodriquez
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
My favorite memory was completing my Senior Project and creating a great business plan with an experienced professional.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I plan to apply to a doctorate program in the fall to become a Clinical Psychologist.
Stephanie Saunders
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
Working on my Capstone Project with Professor Christian De Matteo and getting to know all of my amazing, brilliant classmates! I will miss you all.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
Pursue an MFA, and find a way to make the Arts my career, again.
Michalis Schinas
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
I have so many incredible memories from my time in the program, but what stands out the most is the experience of sharing a space with such a diverse group of talented dancers—people of different backgrounds, ages, and life experiences. That diversity brought so much richness to every class and conversation. I felt truly seen and heard in an environment that encouraged expression, individuality, and critical thought. It was a safe space where I could voice my opinions and explore topics that challenged me to think about the future—not just in terms of career, but also identity, culture, and impact. I grew not only as a performer but also as a human being. I’m deeply grateful to all the instructors who guided us with care, especially those who understood the unique demands of our lifestyle and met us with patience, flexibility, and encouragement. The discussions, debates, and shared moments in and out of class were all part of an experience I’ll carry with me forever.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I can definitely see myself returning to school in the future—possibly pursuing a master’s degree, and maybe even a PhD one day. I genuinely enjoy learning and expanding my perspective, so continuing my academic journey is something I’m open to. That said, for now, I’m giving myself the time and space to create. I want to express myself through my art, explore new collaborations, and be part of work that challenges and excites me. I feel ready to step into roles beyond performance—directing, choreographing, and helping bring shows to life from the other side. I want to be involved in storytelling from multiple angles and continue evolving as an artist. I don’t know exactly what the future holds, but I do know I’m stepping into it with excitement, intention, and a sense of possibility. Closing this chapter of my education feels like the beginning of something powerful.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
One of the standout moments in my career was performing in Fiddler on the Roof at La Mirada Theatre, with Jason Alexander as Tevye. Being part of that production was a special experience—it challenged me as a performer and gave me the chance to work alongside incredibly talented artists and tell a beautiful story.
Other highlights include roles in A Chorus Line, Cabaret, Beauty and the Beast, and Newsies, among others. Each project pushed me to grow in different ways, whether it was technically, emotionally, or creatively. I’ve been lucky to work on a variety of productions that allowed me to explore different styles. These experiences continue to shape me and motivate me as I move forward.
With Gratitude:
Special thanks to my student advisor, Andrew Pearson, for his patience and continuous support during the most challenging moments of my life. I’m also deeply grateful to Professor Jay Chugh and Professor Christian De Matteo—both of whom challenged me, encouraged my individuality, and proved to be remarkable educators who truly want the best for their students. Professor Hunter deeply impacted me with her teaching, depth of knowledge, experience, and emotional intelligence. A big thank you to Director Shaunna Vella, whose mentorship inspired me to explore LGBTQ+ themes in my work. And above all, thank you to my family—for being by my side through every fall and every rise.
Taylor Stanley
Congratulations!
Eunice Suba
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
It is hard to find a favorite memory because I enjoyed every moment in the LEAP Program. I feel so lucky and grateful to have met so many amazing people from my classmates to my professors.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I plan to continue my professional dance career. I am still discovering what more I can do now that I have completed my BA Degree, but I'm looking forward to exploring all options.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
-Debuting Aurora in Sleeping Beauty.
-Debuting a Violin in Concerto Barrocco.
-Debuting Turning Girl in Who Care's
-Debuting Sugar Plum and Dew Drop in The Nutcracker
-Debuting Odile in Swan Lake
I am so grateful to have debuted in these challenging roles.
Nayomi Van Brunt
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
My favorite memory from the program was connecting with all of my fellow dancers from across the country. It honestly has been amazing to connect and become friends with them outside the program.
What are some of your future career/academic/personal goals now that you've completed your BA Degree?
I am currently on faculty at the Colburn School and a freelance artist in LA. But now that I have completed my BA degree I am interested in a fashion PR role and acting. I have been freelancing with a PR firm in LA that I have been enjoying. I am excited to gain more experience.
What are some of your favorite credits/highlights from your performance career?
I have several highlights from my performance career such as dancing the role of Juliet in Benjamin Millepied's Romeo & Juliet at La Sienne Musicale in Paris, performing for the French President Emmanuel Macron, and opening Hermes fashion show 2021.