Melissa has been partner dancing for over 12 years, and teaching for over 10 years. She also has an extensive background in Ballet, Tap, and Jazz. Melissa got her start in Ballroom dancing at the University of Arizona, where she joined the Ballroom club and began competing on the collegiate circuit in American Smooth, American Rhythm, and International Latin.
In 2011 Melissa got her start in West Coast Swing and has worked her way up to an All-Star competitor, winning 1st place at the Phoenix 4th of July West Coast Swing Convention. In 2015 she made her entrance into Country Western partner dancing, culminating in her 2nd place Pro-Pro 2 Open placements at the United Country Western Dance Council 2019 and 2020 World Championships.
Formerly from Tucson, she now lives and teaches swing, country and ballroom dance lessons in Albuquerque. She loves teaching wedding dance lessons as much as social and competitive dance lessons.
Melissa continues to advance in both her competitive dance and teaching career, coaching students in multiple dance styles and continuing to climb the competitive ladder in both Country Western and West Coast Swing.
