DEBBIE WESTPHAL (DIRECTOR) is an educator, a choreographer and a businesswoman. In addition to teaching all ages, Debbie conceives, stages and directs our spring performance, choreographing the majority of our dances. Debbie's award-winning choreography and performance training have also enabled her students to win gold medals and first place awards in ballet, tap, jazz, variety, solo and duet competitions throughout the United States. She has trained thousands of dancers, including professional dancers who have performed on Broadway, in Las Vegas, in theme parks and on cruise lines. Debbie has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, a Masters Degree in Business Administration, and she is listed in Who's Who in America. Debbie is the Secretary of Dance Masters of Mid-America, the Gifted Children's Coordinator of Central Iowa Mensa, and the founder of the Gifted Network.

You can email Debbie at: debbie@bettyhilldance.com.

BETTY HILL (FOUNDER) has been a significant figure in Des Moines dance education for forty -five years. She has a rare gift for working with children, and her teaching methods for pre-schoolers and young dancers have set the standard for dance education in Des Moines and Central Iowa. In recognition of her contribution, Betty was one of seven people in the nation to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award in Dance, presented by the Professional Dance Teachers Association. Betty is on the Board of Directors of the National Costumers Association and has led seminars throughout the United States for her creativity and expertise in costuming and business. She is also the treasurer and past president of Dance Masters of Mid-America. A diversified businesswoman, Betty owns The Theatrical Shop, Dressmakers, Rose's Theatrical Supply, and Owens Tiara Company. Betty is Debbie's mother.

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