Judges

Katie is a native of Columbus Ohio and began training in ballet, jazz and contemporary at a young age. She attended Akron University as a dance and education major, later transferring to Ohio State University where she graduated with a degree in early childhood development and a dance minor. Katie has trained under Missy Lay Zimmer, Andrew Hubbard and Jennifer Rutherford since 2008. Katie has served as a tribe member, rehearsal director and now resident choreographer for Exhale Dance Tribe in Cincinnati, a contemporary jazz company. Katie has performed alongside Bootsy Collins, Over The Rhine and assisted Zimmer and Hubbard in Cincinnati Ballet’s 2013 performance with Frampton Live! Katie is currently a Master Teacher Trainer and Choreographer for Xponential Fitness and manages a Club Pilates studio. When Katie is not teaching barre or pilates, she choreographs groups, solos and local musicals around the Tri-State area.

With a passion for movement and a deep dedication to the art of dance, Lynette has been inspiring students for over 36 years. As a seasoned dance instructor and choreographer, she has shaped the lives of countless dancers across various genres, from classical ballet to contemporary dance. Throughout this remarkable journey, Lynette has earned recognition for her expertise, creativity, and ability to instill confidence in dancers of all ages and abilities.

For more than three decades, Lynette has taught students ranging from beginners to advanced, always prioritizing personal expression, discipline, and technical excellence. Known for a nurturing yet challenging approach, she fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where dancers can thrive and grow both artistically and personally.

Lynette has certification from the Cecchetti Council of America and Acrobatic Arts. She is always a certified pointe shoe fitter and manager at Standing Ovation Performance Apparel.

Throughout her career, Lynette has remained an active member of the dance community, contributing to workshops, conferences, and dance advocacy. She has also served as a mentor to aspiring dance educators and performers, ensuring the legacy of quality dance education continues for generations.

Madison Harris is a passionate and accomplished dance educator with over twenty-seven years of experience, hailing from Spring Hill, Florida. Throughout her career, she has trained and performed with prestigious companies, including Busch Gardens, Neil Patrick Harris Live at Disney World, Broadway Dance Center, West Coast Dance Explosion, and Galen Hooks. Her professional credits include choreographing for World of Dance Live and So You Think You Can Dance Live in Florida. Madison has also owned and served as the Creative Director of C.S.O.D.’s Dance Empire and VYB Dance, where she has taught numerous classes, workshops, and convention sessions across the United States. As the Founder and Artistic Director of “Yours Collective” in Tampa, Florida, Madison leads an adult company that supports professional dancers in achieving their goals as choreographers and industry performers. Under her mentorship, many of her students have successfully pursued professional dance careers, training with renowned companies and colleges such as USF, UCF, UF, FSU, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Virgo Cruise Lines, Walt Disney World, Busch Gardens, and the Joffrey Summer Program, earning national awards and honors along the way. Madison’s expertise spans various dance styles, with a particular focus on Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop Fundamentals, Jazz, and Acrobatics Technique. She is committed to continuous learning and sharing her knowledge across multiple genres. This marks Madison’s fourth year working with Nexstar Dance, and she is thrilled to witness the incredible talent this season will bring.