Hello

Ignite Dance Co. was founded by Shawna Kassuba, an educator, nonprofit leader, and advocate for creative approaches to resilience and belonging.

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Shawna holds a Master’s degree in Positive Psychology from Arizona State University, where her work explored how human connection, creativity, and emotional regulation contribute to human flourishing and well-being. She is also in the process of pursuing doctoral studies focused on well-being, including coursework in consulting for organizational change.

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Movement and dance have been a constant presence throughout Shawna’s life. She was the owner and director of a dance studio for over a decade and has taught dance for more than 20 years. Shawna also studied children’s dance education at the University of Michigan, where she deepened her interest in how movement supports learning, expression, and confidence in young people.

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Shawna also holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Entrepreneurship from the University of Michigan and earned a Business Leadership Certificate through the University of Michigan. This blend of psychology, leadership, entrepreneurship, and organizational thinking continues to shape the vision and growth of Ignite Dance Co. and The Ignite Collective.

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Her professional background includes youth development, community engagement, and seven years of work within Michigan’s mental health system, including serving as a parent peer support professional and later helping lead statewide education and outreach efforts. Through this work, Shawna has supported family-driven and youth-guided initiatives, collaborated with families, schools, and community organizations, and contributed to the development of innovative training and curriculum models designed to strengthen connection, resilience, and support for children and families.​

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Shawna’s perspective is also shaped by her experience as the mother of a child with additional support needs, which has further strengthened her commitment to creating environments where all children feel seen, supported, and able to belong.

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Throughout her life, movement and creative expression have served as a grounding practice and a pathway to connection, confidence, and personal growth. Through Ignite Dance Co. and The Ignite Collective, Shawna continues to explore how creative movement, positive psychology, and relational environments can support resilience, belonging, and transferable life skills for children and communities.