Meet The Team
Owner & Director
Alissa Savoie
Born and raised in the Tri-Cities, Alissa has been dancing since she was just 5 years old. Throughout her years as a dancer, she discovered that her greatest passion extended beyond performing - it was inspiring, mentoring, and guiding the next generation of dancers. Her teaching philosophy takes a holistic approach, focusing not only on technical growth but also on building confidence, encouraging creativity, and fostering a lifelong love for the art of dance.
In 2023, Alissa turned her dream into a reality by opening Creative Minds Dance Studio with her wife, Alyssa. What began as a vision to create a welcoming and inspiring space for dancers quickly became a thriving community centered on growth, self-expression, and belonging.
Through dedication, hard work and a commitment to her students, she has built a studio where dancers are encouraged to embrace their individuality, take creative risks, and develop both inside and outside the classroom.
Alissa believes in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every dancer feels valued and empowered to succeed. Her goal is to help students become not only skilled and confident dancers but also resilient, disciplined, and compassionate individuals who carry the lessons they learn in the studio with them throughout their lives.
Creative Director & Choreographer
Alyssa Savoie
Alyssa is passionate about fostering individuality, creativity, and artistic expression in every dancer she teaches. She believes that no two dancers are alike and that each student has a unique story to tell through movement. Dance has been a defining part of her life, and her desire to share that passion with others is what inspired her to pursue a career in dance education.
Her dance journey began at the age of three and has been shaped by a diverse athletic and artistic background. In addition to dance, Alyssa spent several years as a competitve gymnast and All-Star cheerleader. She has trained extensively in a variety of styles, including contemporary, lyrical, hip-hop, jazz, ballet and breakdancing.
Throughout her years of teaching and choreographing, Alyssa has developed routines that highlight each dancer's unique strengths and abilities. Her choreography has numerous accolades and honors.
Above all, Alyssa is deeply committed to her students and their personal growth. She takes the time to understand each dancer's talents, goals, and potential, creating a supportive environment where they can thrive. Her fun, patient, and compassionate teaching style encourages students to build confidence, develop strong technical skills, and embrace their individuality both on and off the stage.
Instructor
Grace Strycker
Grace is 18 years old and was born and raised in the Tri-Cities. This year she graduated from Pasco High School and finished her last year competing! She has a profound passion for dance that has shaped her life for over seven years. Grace dove into the competitive dance world here at Creative Minds Dance Studio when it opened, where she discovered her intense love for hip-hop. Though hip-hop remains her favorite, she is trained in contemporary and jazz as well.
Grace firmly believes in the power of dance to bring people together and is dedicated to sharing this passion with those around her. As Grace continues teaching, she is committed to creating a safe space where dancers can be themselves, explore their art while also learning and growing not only as dancers but also as individuals.
Instructor
Olivia Owen
Olivia is 17 years old, born and raised in the Tri-Cities. She is a senior at Kamiakin High School and has been dancing for 10 years. At a young age she discovered a true passion for the art of dance. Dance has helped her grow creatively and immensely in her personal life. It continues to be an important part of her and is now turning into her career. She is excited to begin teaching and sharing her love for dance with others!
