emma volk

MARKETING & MERCHANDISE MANAGER, CO-DIRECTOR & INSTRUCTOR

Emma began her dancing career at the age of 2 and a half. She has been teaching for 8 years and choreographing for 5. Emma grew up in Illinois, studying many styles of dance including lyrical, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, Musical theater, and ballet as well as tumbling. Emma soon realized that she wanted to dance more and joined the world of competitive dance at age 6. After her move to Ankeny, Emma took a year off of dance and quickly realized that her previous hobby was also a huge passion. She jumped back into dance and eventually finished out her last year of competitive dance at Motivate Dance in 2019, becoming our very first alum! Throughout high school Emma also participated in varsity show choir (Ankeny Centennial Spectrum), school musicals (as a choreographer and performer), student council, mayors youth council, and circle of friends. Emma received her Bachelor of Science in apparel, merchandise, and design from Iowa State University, as well as minors in dance and general business in 2023.

Emma is our Co-Director and choreographs/manages MDPT coordination. She has now choreographed around 100 routines for MDPT and has won choreography awards and top placements for them. Getting to bring her visions to life, portraying important topics, and telling stories through her choreography is one of her greatest joys. Emma also manages all of our costuming, shoes, tights, and creates our Motivate Merch. Dance will always have a special place in Emma’s heart and she feels beyond lucky to get to share it with the next generation of dancers. Storytelling and art through movement is her passion. She hopes to live a life constantly finding a reason to dance and instilling the same attitude as well as confidence in her dancers.