Judges

Hailing from the Washington, DC area, Geralyn Ward has dedicated over four decades to teaching dance. Her exceptional talent and commitment have earned her numerous awards for choreography, overall achievement, and high scores at regional, national, and world competitions.
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Geralyn’s passion for dance began as a competitive dance student. She pursued her love for the art by majoring in dance at the University of Georgia and George Mason University, where she also performed with their prestigious dance companies.
Geralyn’s students have gone on to achieve remarkable success—performing on Broadway, on cruise ships, in music videos, and as teachers, judges, and directors of esteemed dance competitions. She teaches all ages, from toddlers to adults, in a variety of dance styles.
In addition to teaching, Geralyn has served as a judge on the regional and national competition circuit for over 25 years. Recently, her students and choreography have been showcased in iconic venues like New York City and Walt Disney World.
Geralyn’s passion and dedication have not gone unnoticed; she was named Favorite Dance Instructor in Loudoun County, Virginia, by Loudoun Now for seven consecutive years (2018–2024). Her enduring love for dance and her students continues to inspire her work every day.

Growing up in Rhode Island, Kayla began her journey as a competitive dancer at age six, traveling across the country competing, taking conventions and master classes. She committed to the University of the Arts in 2011 under the direction of Donna Faye Burchfield and immersed her training in Vaganova, Balanchine, Horton, Graham and Jazz. She had the privilege of working with a diverse range of renowned artists and choreographers such as Michael Sheridan, Kim Bears Bailey, and Sidra Bell. After graduating and exploring audition opportunities, she transitioned passions for movement into a fulfilling career in Pilates.

Mandy Arroyo, is a dedicated dance educator with over 25 years of teaching experience, began her dance training in the Tampa Bay Area and continued her studies at Howard W. Blake School of the Arts and the University of South Florida. Her passion for the arts and commitment to cultivating confidence and artistry in young dancers has led many of her students and apprentices to successful careers in various genres of dance and the performing arts worldwide. Currently serving as the Dance Department Director at a performing arts school, Mandy has received numerous accolades, including Outstanding Choreographer by Youth America Grand Prix and Dance Teacher of the Year for Hillsborough County Public Schools. She also served as Head Coach of the Plant High School Danceros Dance Team. She is known for her ability to instill technical excellence, artistry, and performance skills in her students.