Judges

Alexis Abu, a Michigan native, brings over 20 years of diverse experience in the dance industry
including studio, crew, professional, and dance team settings across various styles. Her journey
began as a competitive dancer, where she earned numerous prestigious titles, awards, and
scholarships from top competitions and conventions.
Alexis graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Dance, and Psychology
from Alma College, where she excelled as a 4-year member and 2-year captain of the Alma
College Dance Team. Under her leadership, the team secured six Collegiate National
Championship titles. She was also recognized as a 2-time NDA All-American Collegiate Dancer
and 2-time NDA Top-Gun Hip Hop award recipient.
Her teaching career spans the nation, with Alexis instructing hundreds of dancers through NDA,
WILD Dance Intensive, Tribe99’s THE TOUR, and master classes for Nexstar Talent
Competition.
Alexis’ professional credits include performing with Grammy-winning artists such as Kierra
Sheard and Pastor Mike Jr. at the Stellar Awards and appearances alongside Dej Loaf, Lay
Bankz, and DJ Kool. She also appeared in Adia’s music video “Fly.” Currently, Alexis is a proud
NBA dancer for the Detroit Pistons, following her tenure as captain of the USFL Michigan
Panthers Cheerleaders and leader of the USPBL United Dance Crew.
Her choreographic portfolio includes work with professional sports teams, music videos, and
competitive dance programs. As a Choreo-Connect choreographer, Alexis has created
award-winning routines for high school and collegiate teams, earning state championships and
top placements at the DTU College Classic, DTU High School National Championship, and NDA
High School National Championship.
Known for her dynamic and innovative approach, Alexis blends professionalism, creativity, and
passion in every project. She is dedicated to challenging the norm, inspiring dancers to push
their limits, and creating unforgettable performances. Alexis believes that passion fuels purpose,
and she’s committed to sharing her expertise with teams worldwide.

Jenny is a choreographer, entrepreneur, and educator based in Indiana, with over 40
years of dance experience. She began dancing at the age of three and has studied
under renowned master teachers such as Ray Leeper, Mia Michaels, Stacey Tookey,
and Anthony Morigerato, continuously advancing her craft through classes at the Joffrey
Ballet in Chicago. Jenny holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from
Indiana University. Her professional dance career includes performing in the Best of
Disney show at Walt Disney World, appearing on MTV’s Rock N’ Jock, starring in the
music video for Michael Quatro’s “Strut”, and featuring in commercials for Centennial
Wireless, the CBA Basketball League, and NBC. In addition to her performance work,
Jenny has choreographed for show choirs and pageants and co-choreographed iconic
musicals like Fiddler on the Roof, 42nd Street, and Grease. Since 2009, she has served
as the owner and Artistic Director of TDS – The Dance Studio, Inc., where her students
have won numerous regional and national titles.

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.