2025-26 PRE-PRO D.O.T.Y.

Hi, I’m Laney! I’m 18 years old, and I’m so incredibly excited and proud to represent Tremaine as a Pre-Pro Dancer of the Year for 2025-26!

I’ve been dancing at Center Stage Performing Arts in Gonzalez, Louisiana, for the past 10 years, and I can confidently say this studio has played a major role in shaping the person I am today. While dance itself has been transformative, it’s the values instilled at my studio that have left the deepest impact. Dance isn’t just an art; it’s a passion that brings joy to every corner of my life. I’m especially grateful for my teacher, Meghann King, whose unwavering belief in me and constant reminders of why I began this journey have meant the world. I have also had the privilege of being coached for 4 years on the St. Joseph’s Academy Red Steppers by Jade Prejean McCune. She has believed in me from the start and showed me the power of leading and dancing with love. I’m forever grateful for her never-ending guidance and support throughout my Tremaine journey.

At my first Tremaine convention, I walked out of the room with my face aching from smiling all day. There was something about the energy in the space that felt instantly like home. As a young girl who often struggled with anxiety and self-consciousness, I had never fully connected with the typical convention scene. But Tremaine was different. That heavy feeling always lifted the moment I stepped into the room. I found myself wanting more of that warmth, support, and inspiration, attending as many Tremaine’s as I could just to hold onto the joy and growth I felt from the faculty and company.

During my senior year, my world turned upside down. A week later, I found myself at another Tremaine. I was feeling lost, discouraged, and ready to walk away from dance entirely. But then Christina began class saying, “Don’t give up on that dream. You are one of a kind. I see you.” Those words changed my perspective and gave me hope. Tremaine wasn’t just a place where I felt seen; it was a home I could help create for others. A place for dancers like me who just need someone to believe in them. I will forever be grateful to Dr. Joe Tremaine for creating this environment and a place where dance training really is life training for many reasons, but for staying true to the community and love that dance creates. I am endlessly grateful to the Tremaine faculty and company members who have supported me every step of the way and continued the true Tremaine legacy.

I never imagined this would be possible for me, but this moment is proof that when one door closes, the right one will open.

I feel incredibly blessed to have this opportunity and hope to use it to inspire other dancers to keep going, especially when things feel hopeless. This year, I want to be a reminder that leaning on each other, staying true to your passion, and holding onto hope can lead to something beautiful.

I can’t wait to dance with each of you and make you just as much a part of this family as I am!

2025-26 PRE-PRO D.O.T.Y.

Hi, my name is Mael Tima. I will be turning 20 this fall, and I am beyond ecstatic to be representing Tremaine during the 2025–26 season as one of the Pre-Professional Dancers of the Year!

Though my love for dance is lifelong, my formal training began in 2017 at Dawn Crafton Dance Connection in Rockville, MD. Under the direction of Dawn Crafton and Kelly Welch, I started training in hip-hop and ballet, later expanding to jazz, contemporary, tap, and competition by 2021. This marked my introduction to the Tremaine family!

Before my competition days, I was already aware of Tremaine’s presence, thanks to past performance company members and DOTYs who attended my studio. Even through social media, I could feel the sense of community this convention offered—which worked out perfectly, since my first regional city in 2021 was experienced through a screen due to the pandemic. That same year, I attended my first Nationals, which would go on to change my life. Since then, I’ve been a member of the Tremaine Performance Company for four seasons, as both a Senior and a Pre-Pro.

Through the convention, I was accepted into the Pace Commercial Dance Program, where I continue my training under the guidance of Lauren Gaul, Scott Jovovich, and Holly Evans. I’ve also become a regular teacher and choreographer at my home studio.

As someone who has looked up to countless past DOTYs, this honor truly means the world to me. I can wholeheartedly say that there is no other convention that prioritizes community, fosters work ethic, and honors dance history the way Tremaine does. I want to thank the countless teachers who pour into me, the backbone that is my friends and family, and the rich legacy created by Dr. Joe Tremaine.

This season will truly be one to remember, and I hope to inspire as many people as possible as part of “The Original Dance Experience.” Let’s dance!

2025-26 PRE-PRO D.O.T.Y.

I’m truly honored to be named one of the 2025-26 Pre-Professional Dancers of the Year for Tremaine Dance Conventions.

Dance has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember, and I’ve spent countless hours in the studio working to grow as both a technician and a performer. Being part of the Tremaine Performance Company has given me unforgettable experiences, the opportunity to train with world-class choreographers, and the chance to connect with dancers who have inspired and pushed me to become better every day.

Earlier in my journey, I was fortunate to be chosen as a 2021–2022 Teen Dancer of the Year. That season helped me build confidence, maturity, and a sense of responsibility, not just as a dancer, but as someone who hopes to lead by example. Now, I carry those lessons with me as I support and encourage younger dancers following in similar footsteps, which I plan to bring into this season.

As I move to Los Angeles this fall to pursue commercial dance full-time, I’ll be continuing my training in both technique and choreography while navigating auditions and diving into the professional industry. It’s a challenging transition, but one I’ve dreamed about for years. I’m ready to embrace the hard work, keep learning, and stay open to everything this next chapter has to offer while knowing I always have a home at Tremaine to come to on the weekends. I’m beyond grateful for Mr. Joe Tremaine and the entire Tremaine faculty for their continued belief in me.

Representing Tremaine this season is something I take great pride in, and I hope to pass on the same inspiration and passion that’s been poured into me throughout my journey.

2025-26 SENIOR D.O.T.Y.

Hi there! My name is Caroline Zazueta, I’m 17 years old, and I’m from Houston, Texas. It is truly the greatest honor to be representing Tremaine as a 2025-26 Senior Dancer of the Year!

My love for dance began the moment I first stepped on stage. Right after that performance, I ran to my mom and shrieked with pure excitement, “I love the stage!” That feeling has yet to fade, and years later, that same little girl still lights up with joy each time she steps on the dance floor.

I began dancing at the age of three, and by the time I was six, I joined my studio, Houston Academy of Dance, where I have been fortunate to train under my lifelong mentors, Kenneth Epting and Evelyn Ireton, along with all of the wonderful HAD faculty. The positive and nurturing atmosphere of my home studio allowed me to pursue my passion for dance on an entirely new level. In 2022, I was accepted into a performing arts high school, where I’ve had the opportunity to supplement my training in a conservatory-like environment. I am deeply grateful to both my studio and school for shaping me into the dancer and human that I am today.

In 2018, I attended my first Tremaine convention, which quickly became my home away from home. Each season, I found myself returning more and more frequently, and in 2021, I was thrilled to join the Tremaine Performance Company as a teen member. Becoming part of TPC marked a new chapter in my journey, where I not only got to spend weekends assisting at my favorite place but also formed genuine connections with the role models and faculty who have always inspired me more than I can express.

My Tremaine experience would not have been the same without the people who make Tremaine more than just a convention but a true family. Thank you to the entire Tremaine faculty and staff, not only for making these events possible, but also for your kindness and mentorship throughout the years. Most of all, I want to thank Dr. Joe Tremaine for creating such a special space and inspiring so many eager artists, myself included. Thank you for your vision, for being a pioneer in this industry, and for paving the way by founding the original dance experience.

I wouldn’t be who I am without the amazing support system I feel so fortunate to have. An extra special thank you to my family, whose unwavering love and sacrifice have been the foundation of everything I’ve accomplished. I’m endlessly grateful.

Dancer of the Year is definitely not a role I take lightly. Stepping into this position, I could not feel any more overwhelmed with gratitude. This has been such a dream of mine ever since I witnessed the grace and humility of past title recipients at my very first Tremaine event and hoped that one day, I might be in their place. I strive to be a bright light and bring positive energy into every convention room I enter, regardless of the ages or abilities within the space. I hope to inspire every individual I can and want to remind others that with kindness, hard work, and perseverance, anything is possible.

2025-26 SENIOR D.O.T.Y.

Hi, my name is Chase Fowler, and I am 17 years old. I can’t express how excited and honored I am to represent Tremaine this year as a Senior Dancer of the Year!

Growing up trying all different sports, I never found my true passion until my first dance convention, Tremaine. I’ll always remember that moment in the junior room when the wall slid open and I got to watch the seniors dance. I was inspired to work hard so that I could be like them one day. Four years ago I joined the Tremaine Performance Company, and that is when I truly transformed into the dancer I am today. I am so grateful to all the faculty for creating such a supportive and loving environment for dancers like myself to grow and find themselves.

I also need to thank both my parents for flying me around the country and letting me follow my dreams, as well as the director of my home studio, Stephanie Zurinsky. I’m so blessed to be a part of the Vibe Dance Company family; you guys are the best team I could ask for.

I’m so excited to continue to grow and push myself in a new way for my senior year. Last time, best time!

2025-26 TEEN D.O.T.Y.

Hi! My name is Kiana Mejia, and I am 15 years old. I am incredibly honored to be named the 2025–26 Tremaine Teen Dancer of the Year. Representing Tremaine in this way is truly a dream come true.

According to my parents, I’ve been dancing since I was a baby—moving to music before I could even walk. I began competing at the age of three and have since trained in a wide variety of dance genres, performing both as a soloist and as part of groups. I am currently training at Thrive Dance Collective and Premiere Ballet Academy. Over the past two summers, I’ve also had the privilege of training under the Tiffany Maher Mentorship Program. In addition, I proudly represent my high school as a member of the Varsity Dance Team.

Each year, I’ve had the opportunity to attend and compete at numerous dance conventions, learning from world-class choreographers. I began attending Tremaine Dance Conventions at the age of six and was honored to be accepted into the Tremaine Performance Company (TPC) at age 12. Being part of TPC for the past three years has been an incredible experience that continues to shape my journey as a dancer.

Working with the Tremaine Faculty has strengthened my dedication to excellence in the dance industry. Through TPC, I’ve learned how to communicate effectively with faculty and teammates, manage my time, adapt to change, and uphold the standards of professionalism and positivity as a representative of the Tremaine brand. Assisting in convention classes and preparing for performances has taught me so much about leadership, accountability, and responsibility. I’m especially thankful for the lifelong friendships I’ve built with fellow dancers who share my passion.

In 2023, I had the unforgettable opportunity to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with Spirit of America. I’ve also performed in the SIX—Curtain Up for Cancer Foundation show in 2023 and 2024, honoring those affected by cancer. One of my greatest honors has been performing in the Tremaine Gala as a Dancer of the Year Finalist in 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2025.

I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering love and support of my family, teammates, and fellow dancers who shared the stage or convention floor with me. Their encouragement has helped me grow not only as a dancer but also as a person.

I am beyond excited for the 2025–26 Tremaine Tour and the opportunity to meet, train, and dance with so many amazing dancers across the country. Being named Teen Dancer of the Year allows me to inspire others, especially dancers like me who may be quiet and introverted but find their voice through the power and passion of dance.

2025-26 TEEN D.O.T.Y.

Hey!! My name is Evan Turnley. I am 15 years old, and I am super honored to be your 2025-26 Teen Dancer of the Year.

I began my journey of dancing at age six when my mom enrolled me in a weekly jazz & hip hop dance class. During those recitals, I learned that I felt most alive when I was performing on stage. At 11, I attended my very first dance intensive & decided to try competitive dance so I could train at a higher level; that is when my passion for dance really took off. I credit Linda Holland, the owner of Dance Institute, for offering me the opportunity to learn and grow my technique and dance discipline. I’ve been on the Pre-Professional Competition Team with Dance Institute for four years, and I absolutely love my dance family.

I was introduced to Tremaine 3 years ago when our studio attended their regional convention. Our new assistant director, Stephanie Longo, told me, “Whatever you can do to get to Nationals, I promise you will love it!” I can only explain that weekend as feeling “home.” The combination of the faculty, quality of instruction, and community was so life-giving that I wanted Tremaine to be a part of my life! I think the heartbeat of Tremaine is the way they treat every dancer with infinite value. At Nationals, I auditioned for the Tremaine Performance Company; that has been life-changing these past 2 years. To assist the amazing people who dedicate their lives to Tremaine Conventions has been a dream come true, and I have grown as a dancer but also as a leader and person under the TPC program.

After being named a Tremaine Dancer of the Year finalist for the last two years, I KNEW that my #1 goal last year was taking all the feedback they had given me and coming back this past year to try again.This just goes to show that hard work really does pay off! Every wish, prayer, and hope, along with all the training that led up to me being here, was so, SO worth it.

Huge shout-out to my directors, Linda Holland and Stephanie Longo; thank you for your encouragement & instilling work ethic into my dance training. To the Tremaine faculty and staff, it is an honor to be your Dancer of the Year and represent all the work you do for the dance community. To my dance friends, thank you for cheering me on via livestream from your homes & intensives during finals. Lastly, to my parents & brothers who have championed this journey. I owe it all to you for allowing me to pursue my dreams. I am ecstatic for this amazing year ahead!!

2025-26 PRE-TEEN D.O.T.Y.

Hi! My name is Juliana Loor. I am 14 years old. I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to represent Tremaine as the 2025-26 Pre-Teen Dancer of the Year! Dance has always come naturally for me. It was just something my body knew. My dance adventure started as an after-school activity but quickly became my life’s passion and joy. I believe dance has the power to transform lives and connect people: “Your purpose is not the thing you do. It is the thing that happens in others when you do what you do.”

I have trained with many teachers during my dance journey. I have recently moved to Loperfido Dance Academy to pursue new opportunities with Ms. Janeen, Ms. Melissa, Mr. Matt, and Ms. Alex. I want to thank Encore Dance Academy teachers, especially Ms. Erica, Ms. Lisa, and Ms. Jackie, for the training and support over the past years. I wish you all the best, and I will cheer you on wherever I go. I also want to give a shoutout to Ms. Ingrid Yecora from Details Elite Coaching for her guidance and support and North East School of Ballet for my pointe and ballet training.

Tremaine was the first convention I attended at the age of 7. What I love about Tremaine is the feeling of being welcomed. The amazing faculty is very friendly and inspiring. They are all a family that is joined by the shared passion for dance, and you can feel it! The fact the teachers dance in the closing shows is just so special. I am beyond grateful to represent this organization, and I will do my best to make you proud!!!

I would like to thank God for showing me the path of dance. With all the training, I have learned not only how to become a better dancer but also a better human! To my mom, thank you for all that you do for me to help me to pursue my dreams. To my Dad, thank you for always looking after the family at home when Mom and I travel and always watching my dances on the livestream if you can’t be there in person. A very special shoutout to my cousin Marta, who came all the way from Europe to watch me dance live this summer and was with me at the Tremaine Gala. And last but not least, to my older brother Dominik and younger sister Emma, thank you for your constant love and kindness and for coming to support me at dance events. Love you so much!

I look forward to sharing this experience with the other DOTYs who are just insanely talented. I am so lucky to be a part of this group! Let’s have an amazing 45th anniversary season!

2025-26 PRE-TEEN D.O.T.Y.

Hi, my name is Graysen Speer, and I’m incredibly honored to represent Tremaine as one of this year’s Pre-Teen Dancers of the Year.

Dance has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Over the years, dance has not only helped me grow technically and artistically—it’s helped me grow as a person. It’s taught me dedication, confidence, and how to keep pushing forward even when things get tough.

I’m so proud to train at Tribe Seven Dance, where I’m surrounded by teachers, directors, and teammates who constantly inspire and challenge me. My studio is like a second home, and I’m so thankful for every teacher who has believed in me, supported me, and helped me reach this milestone. I wouldn’t be where I am without the guidance and love I’ve received from my Tribe Seven family.

To my family—thank you for your love, your sacrifices, and for always being my biggest supporters. Your encouragement means everything to me.

I attended my first Tremaine convention when I was eight years old, and I’ll never forget the way it made me feel. The energy, the encouragement, and the incredible faculty inspired me from the very beginning. After that first experience, I knew I wanted to keep coming back. Every city since then has left me more motivated, more passionate, and more in love with dance. Tremaine has become such a big part of my journey, and it feels surreal to now represent this amazing organization as Dancer of the Year.

One of my favorite things about Tremaine is how the faculty sees every dancer in the room. Whether it’s a correction, a compliment, or just the way they teach with so much passion, every moment matters. I’ve learned so much from every class, every audition, and every experience on the Tremaine stage.

This opportunity means more than I can put into words. I’m so excited to be part of the Tremaine family and can’t wait to represent this title with gratitude, passion, and heart. I hope to inspire other dancers the same way so many have inspired me—to chase their dreams and never give up, no matter how big those dreams may seem. Can’t wait to dance with everyone this season!

2025-26 JUNIOR D.O.T.Y.

Hi, my name is Aleena Vazquez, and I am so honored and grateful to be Tremaine’s 2025-26 Junior Dancer of the Year!

My dance journey began before I could even walk, crawling around in the back of Tremaine convention ballrooms while my older sister danced. I officially started training and competing at just two years old under the direction of Brooke Bailey Abner and Stephanie Longo at Brooke Bailey Dance Addiction. At first, I just loved being on stage, but rather quickly, that love turned into a passion for the dance itself. Ms. Brooke has played a huge role in shaping the dancer I’ve become today. She saw something in me from the start and has continued to nurture the flame she helped ignite.

For as long as I can remember, being Dancer of the Year has been a dream of mine. Going into this past season as a two-time DOTY finalist pushed me to keep working hard and to continue growing. I knew that if I wanted to take the next step, I had to stay committed both in the studio and in how I carried myself outside of it. Every sacrifice came from that quiet hope of turning my dream into something real, and I’m so grateful for the journey.

Reaching this dream wouldn’t have been possible without the support of so many; thank you all so much! I’d like to give a special thank you to Ms. Brooke, Abby Griffin, Abbey Fincham, my sister Yari, and most importantly my mom for all that you do for me! Lastly, thank you to Mr. Joe Tremaine, Terry Lindholm, and the Tremaine faculty for awarding and trusting me with this title. I cannot wait for this year with you all!

2025-26 JUNIOR D.O.T.Y.

Hi, my name is Emerson Gentry, and I am incredibly honored and grateful to be representing Tremaine as the 2025–26 Junior Dancer of the Year.

I attended my very first Tremaine convention when I was 7 years old, and I instantly fell in love with the energy in the ballrooms and the inspiration I felt from the faculty and Performance Company members. I have admired them for years and dreamed of one day having the chance to inspire others the way I have been inspired throughout my journey.

I want to give a huge thank you to Morgan Crisp and my home studio, Morgan Crisp Dance Company. MCDC has been my dance home since I was 3, and I began competing when I was just 5. There will never be enough thank-yous for Miss Morgan—she has always believed in me and taught me to believe in myself. I am so grateful for the entire MCDC staff and all the incredible teachers and mentors who have supported, challenged, encouraged, and helped me grow both as a dancer and as a person.

To my family—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support and encouragement have given me opportunities beyond my dreams. Some of my favorite memories are traveling to conventions and competitions and dancing with my sisters, Peyton and Harper. Sharing those moments with them has made this journey even more special.

I want to thank Dr. Joe Tremaine for creating such an incredible place at Tremaine Dance Conventions. Because of the amazing teachers, staff, and everyone working behind the scenes, it has become an unforgettable experience for dancers all across the country.

I am beyond excited for the year ahead and can’t wait to represent Tremaine as Junior Dancer of the Year!