IMPACT School of Dance Performance is dedicated to creating accessible dance experiences to help students build confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of self through creative expression.
With a strong emphasis on accessibility and intentional learning, impact focuses on developing skills that extend far beyond DANCE and into everyday life.
DANCE. PERFORM. make an impact.
BRING IMPACT TO YOUr school!
meet The Founder
Summer began her dance training at the age of three at the North Carolina Academy of Dance Arts, where she built a strong classical ballet foundation under internationally recognized ballerina Galina Panova.
She went on to train in pre-professional programs with companies including Carolina Ballet and Joffrey Ballet, and was later selected by Dean Ethan Stiefel to attend the North Carolina School of the Arts, a year-round performing arts boarding school. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance from East Carolina University in 2015.
Summer performed for nearly three decades in lead and featured roles in classical and contemporary works, including Swan Lake, Paquita, and The Nutcracker. Her career included extensive experience in partnering and performing with live orchestras.
After graduation, she served as Assistant Rehearsal Director in the ballet department at East Carolina University, supporting mainstage productions and mentoring dancers across multiple levels.
In 2023, Summer became a certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach, expanding her work into strength training, conditioning, and injury prevention.
Today, she is the founder of IMPACT School of Dance Performance, a school and community-based program that brings dance fitness into educational spaces to help students build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and lifelong skills through movement.
“Since I can remember, Summer has been such an inspiration to me and my dancing. From watching her in her own performances to coaching me for mine; she encouraged me and my classmates every moment she could. Summer's ballet classes were my favorite of all. They worked on basic technique, while also being challenging and fun. I did dance for over 15 years and, to this day, am grateful for the years of mentorship and guidance she provided me in and out of the studio. While I no longer am a "full time ballerina," I would consider myself lucky if I got the chance to take one more class with her today.“
- Isabella Voos, student
“Coming from someone who has known Summer as a role model to an instructor, Summer is truly an outstanding dance instructor and a rare mentor who leaves a lasting impact on every student she teaches. She has an incredible ability to support you for exactly who you are, while also pushing you beyond what you thought you were capable of, always in a way that feels achievable and empowering. Her dedication to excellence is unmatched; she works tirelessly to perfect every piece until it reaches its fullest potential, instilling both discipline and pride in her dancers. What sets Summer apart is not just her attention to detail, but her genuine care for her students. She is always there to guide, encourage, and support you, not only in dance, but in life. She creates an environment that is structured and focused, yet still uplifting and enjoyable. Her balance of high expectations and positive encouragement makes her, without a doubt, one of the best dance instructors anyone could hope to learn from.”
- Riley Byrne, student
“Summer is an exceptional teacher and a truly positive influence on young dancers. My daughter constantly raves about her classes as they are the highlight of her week. You can see the difference when she leaves the studio; she walks out with a new confidence and energy. Summer is not only building strong dancers, but strong, confident young women.”
- Jamie powell, PARENT
DANCE. PERFORM. MAKE AN IMPACT.
DANCE. PERFORM. MAKE AN IMPACT.