Dance Project’s
Scholarship and Award Recipients
2026
Ms. Cheryl’s ‘Spirt of Dance’ Award
Ms. Pearl’s Wednesday “Ain’t Nobody Here But Us Chickens” Class
Richard DiSarno Scholarship
Gigi Faulise
Sam Fiorello Scholarship
Abby Baetzhold
DCDP 2026 Students of the Year
Nora Buchholtz & Ella Marciano
Class of the Year
Ms. Darlene’s Thursday “Hope”
DCDP 2026 HONOR ROLL
Lydia Altizer
Payton Barnes
Savanna Brackett
Quinn Brandt
Natalie Burke
Quinn Dio
Rhian Dockery
Emma Elnicky
Cecelia Jones
Lauryn Johnson
Payton Klein
Clara Kulczyk
Charlotte Lillis
Paulina Maldonado
Teagan Olson
Estelle Schmitt
Evelyn Silva
Arianna Smith
Mina Southard
Edith Trapp
Nicholas Tucciarone
Zoe Raczka
Ava Rubin
Ana Washington
Ava Washington
Gina Westinfeild
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!
Senoir Spotlight
Haley began dancing at the age of 10 and is now 18 years old. This year, she will graduate from WNY Maritime Charter School.
Throughout high school, she participated in Track and Field as well as Color Guard. As a member of Junior ROTC, she earned the rank of E6, demonstrating leadership, dedication, and discipline.
Following graduation, she will be joining the United States Navy and will leave for boot camp in August. Due to her accomplishments as a Junior ROTC Cadet, she will enter the Navy at the rank of E3.
"I am grateful for the experiences, friendships, and memories I have made through dance and looks forward to beginning this exciting new chapter of her life."Haleyanna Hodges
Cecelia has been dancing for 11 years, 10 of which have been spent at DCDP.
"I am so incredibly grateful for the lasting memories and friendships I've made while growing up at Dance Project."
In the fall, she plans to attend Canisius University, where she will major in Sports & Exercise Healthcare on a Pre-Physical Therapy track.
"I am very thankful for all the love, guidance, and support from the teachers and staff at the studio, and especially for Ms. Darlene, who not only taught me how to dance, but also shared many valuable life lessons and helped me become a better person."
Alyssa Gothgen
Cecelia Jones
Alyssa began dancing at the age of 4 and has been a part of DCDP for 13 years. Throughout her time at the studio, she has also spent many years serving as a class assistant.
Some of Alyssa's favorite memories include spending time with her friends and participating in the large rehearsals that bring the entire studio together.
In the fall, Alyssa will attend Canisius University, where she plans to study Adolescence Education with a concentration in Biology.
To My Graduating Seniors,
As you take your final bow on the Dance Project stage and step into the next chapter of your lives, I want you to know how incredibly proud I am of each and every one of you.
Watching you grow—not only as dancers, but as individuals—has always been one of the greatest privileges. I have seen your dedication, perseverance, kindness, and strength shine both inside and outside the studio. Through long rehearsals, performances, successes, and challenges, you have created memories that will last a lifetime and have left a lasting impact on our dance family.
Thank you for sharing your talents, your laughter, and your hearts with us. You have made our studio a better place simply by being a part of it.
Congratulations, Class of 2026. May you continue to dream big, work hard, and never stop dancing through life.
love you madly,
Ms. Darlene