Keri Payne, Administrative & Operations Coordinator
Keri Payne, a native of North Alabama, discovered her passion for dance at a young age through the competitive circuit and began teaching by just 17. She went on to attend the University of North Alabama, where she pursued a degree in Broadcast Journalism, was an active member of Phi Mu, and performed with the Lion Paws Dance Team.
Keri co-founded and co-directed The Factory Dance Productions in Cullman, Alabama from 2014 to 2018, where she also launched the county’s first dance program for students with special needs—an initiative close to her heart. After relocating to Florida in 2020, she continued sharing her expertise at several studios, including Dansations Performing Arts Center, The Dance House, and Campus Dance Academy.
An accomplished choreographer, Keri has created more than 15 musical productions and earned multiple national choreography awards, along with an international honor. She is certified to teach ballet through Dance Educators of America and is currently pursuing certification with American Ballet Theatre.
Keri’s connection to performance extends beyond the studio—she was a Walt Disney World cast member in 2007 and remains involved through the Disney College Alumni Program. Outside of dance, her interests are just as dynamic: she has worked in radio and hosted her own show, is a Red Cross–certified lifeguard, a children’s book author, a line dance instructor, and an avid runner currently training for her first marathon this January.
Today, Keri teaches a wide range of styles—ballet, pointe, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, acro, cheer, and tap—to students ages 3 through 18, inspiring the next generation of dancers with her energy, experience, and passion
Trinity Sisson, Assistant Teaching Artist
Trinity is a passionate and energetic Assistant Teaching Artist with Campus Dance Academy who brings both heart and dedication into every classroom she steps into. With several years of experience as an assistant dance instructor, Trinity has worked with a wide range of age groups, helping young dancers build confidence, develop foundational skills, and discover a love for movement.
Currently pursuing a degree in Nursing at the University of North Florida, Trinity is deeply committed to personal growth and making a positive impact on others, qualities that shine through in her teaching style. Her background in both dance, cheer, and customer-focused roles has strengthened her communication, adaptability, and ability to connect with students in a supportive and encouraging way.
Known for her warm personality and strong work ethic, Trinity creates a fun, inclusive environment where students feel motivated and excited to learn. She is thrilled to be part of the CDA team and looks forward to continuing to inspire the next generation of dancers.
Alexis Simmons, Campus Director
Alexis is a passionate dance and tumbling instructor with 5 years of dance teaching experience and 6 years of experience in tumbling and acrobatics. As a professional dancer for the Jacksonville Sharks and a Fine Arts major at the University of North Florida, Alexis brings both professional performance experience and a deep love for teaching into the classroom.
Her number one priority is creating a safe, nurturing, and fun environment where every student feels encouraged to learn, grow, and express themselves. Alexis loves sharing her passion for dance and movement with young dancers and helping them build confidence both in and outside of the studio.
She is so excited for another year of dancing, learning, and making memories with her students!
Olivia Quigley, Teaching Artist
Alexis has been dancing since the age of 10 and has developed a lifelong passion for the art of dance. Throughout high school, she competed in dance and proudly served as a member of her high school dance team. For nearly four years, Alexis has had the opportunity to share her love of dance through teaching, inspiring young dancers to grow not only in their technique and skills, but also in their confidence.
Although she recently joined the company, Alexis has already loved becoming part of such an organized, welcoming, and supportive environment. She deeply appreciates the care and dedication the company shows each child and the commitment to creating a positive, encouraging experience for every student.
Alexis is excited to continue sharing her passion for dance and looks forward to helping each dancer learn, grow, and discover their own love for the art!
Heather Kornick, Teaching Artist
A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Heather Kornick began her dance journey at the age of four. Her early training included Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and Character Dance at the Mark Spivak Dance Institute. Her passion for dance eventually led her to Florida State University, where she attended as a Dance major and continued to develop her artistry and technique.
In 1996, Heather discovered her love for Ballroom Dance, opening an exciting new chapter in her career. She pursued extensive training to become a professional instructor and went on to compete professionally in both American Rhythm and American Smooth. Her dedication and talent earned her recognition as a United States Finalist in the American 9 Dance Division.
Today, Heather continues to share her passion and expertise through teaching and studio leadership. Her journey from a young dancer in Jacksonville to a professional competitor, instructor, and studio owner reflects her lifelong commitment to dance and her desire to inspire others through the art she loves.
Ellie Covington, Assistant Teaching Artist
Ellie Covington has been dancing since the age of five, and dance has always been a meaningful and inspiring part of her life. She was a member of the Florence Academy of Fine Arts Dance Company for four years while also competing in dance, gaining valuable experience both on stage and in a competitive environment.
Throughout her training, Ellie has had the opportunity to study with the Joffrey Ballet and travel to different locations to continue developing her technique, artistry, and passion for dance.
She is currently pursuing a BFA in Dance at Jacksonville University, where she continues to grow as both a dancer and artist. Ellie is excited to share her love of dance with her students and inspire them to build confidence, explore their creativity, and find joy in movement.
