Expressing through the Arts: Ashley Johnson ‘25 Teaches Children Love for Dance and Cheer

by Keah D Moffett ‘09

For many, the arts are a way to express yourself in ways you couldn’t otherwise. Future Alumna Ashley Johnson ‘25 uses cheer and dance not only as an escape for herself but also as a way to connect with young children.

Johnson is a third-year psychology major with a concentration in family and marriage studies from Bear, Delaware. She has been dancing for 17 years and cheering for six years, both in high school and college, and is a proud Blue Thunder cheer team member.

“To me, dance and cheer are an escape from all the world’s chaos. When I dance, I forget about all my problems and become one with the music. Dance and cheer are also a way of fellowship between people, and that’s what I love the most: bonding with people who love the same thing as me.”

Johnson not only dances and cheers at Hampton, but she also teaches local children her moves.

“Teaching dance and cheer specifically to children and children with disabilities has been one of my favorite things to do in life. I want all children to experience the love I have for dance and cheer and reap the benefits from dance and cheer that I have as well, whether that be scholarships, new friends, or even a career out of it. “

This experience has enriched Ashley, and she is very proud of each little dancer’s accomplishments. “Getting to know each little dancer and their story has helped me become the young woman I am today. Kids teach you things you don’t learn from adults or your peers.”

Ashley advises everyone to keep fighting for themselves. “There is literally nothing you can’t do; just put your mind to it and never give up, no matter how hard things get!”