Academic and Athletic Commitment
In addition to her academic responsibilities, Taite is a Division I student-athlete on the Wake Forest University Dance Team Balancing a rigorous course load with the demands of collegiate athletics has strengthened her discipline, leadership skills, and ability to manage competing priorities. Her commitment to excellence was recognized during the 2025-2026 season when she received the team’s MVP Award for dedication and performance
For the past three years, she has trained and performed for more than 15 hours each week while maintaining a full academic schedule Her role on the dance team extends beyond performances; she actively engages with fans during athletic events and helps create an energetic game-day atmosphere She also participates in junior spirit programs that provide mentorship and encouragement to young dancers within the community Additionally, Heller represents the university, athletic department, and dance team at alumni and donor events throughout the year
Her competitive experience includes annual participation in the Universal Dance Association National Championship in Division IA Considered one of the nation's premier collegiate dance competitions, the championship brings together top programs from across the country. During the 2025-2026 season, her team achieved a historic feat by winning the DIA Gameday Live national championship, earning the program's first national title
Leadership and Student Representation
Leadership has become an important part of her university experience. Taite serves as a representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, an organization composed of student-athletes from various sports teams The committee helps strengthen communication between athletes and the athletic department while encouraging leadership development and campus involvement
Through this role, she helps represent student-athlete perspectives, supports university initiatives, and promotes engagement within the campus community In 2025, she was selected to serve as the student-athlete voice at the Faculty Advisory Committee meeting for Wake Forest Athletics This recognition was significant because it marked the first time a member of the Spirit Program had been chosen for the responsibility
Heller was also selected to represent Wake Forest Athletics at an event hosted through the Leadership & Character Development Program During the event, she discussed topics including values, team culture, identity, positivity, and mindset. The opportunity allowed her to contribute to conversations focused on leadership and the development of strong team environments.
Research and Clinical Experience
Her interest in healthcare has led her to pursue opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. As a Research Assistant for IGROOVE-POWER, she worked in a geriatric movement laboratory alongside graduate students Her responsibilities included assisting with the collection and organization of muscle power measurements at the knee and ankle joints using standardized testing procedures
Through this experience, Taite gained exposure to geriatric research, functional movement assessment, and studies involving cognitive aging She also developed a deeper understanding of research methodologies and the role of non-pharmacological approaches in supporting health and wellness
During the Spring 2026 semester, she served as a clinical research intern for The Osteoarthritis Prevention Study at Wake Forest University This large multi-site clinical trial examines whether diet, exercise, and weight-loss maintenance can help prevent knee osteoarthritis in women at risk of developing the condition. Her involvement provided valuable experience within a clinical research setting and strengthened her understanding of evidence-based healthcare practices
Educational Outreach and Community Service
In 2024, Heller served as a virtual tutor through Wake Forest University. She conducted weekly one-on-one sessions with a sixth-grade student in Forsyth County, creating personalized lesson plans and interactive learning activities tailored to the student’s needs Through consistent communication and support, she encouraged academic growth and fostered confidence in a virtual learning environment
Community service remains a meaningful part of her college journey. She volunteers at Junior Spirit Clinics, where she mentors young girls from the community and performs with them during football events. Through these experiences, she helps encourage teamwork, confidence, and personal development
Taite also participates in Victory Day, an annual event hosted by Wake Forest Football in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Winston-Salem The event provides individuals with Down syndrome the opportunity to participate in football drills and experience a full game-day atmosphere.
During the Spring 2026 semester, she founded “Dancing With the Deacs,” a dance program developed in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Winston-Salem. Through this initiative, she teaches dance classes for children and adults with Down syndrome, encouraging movement, creativity, confidence, and self-expression. The program focuses on exploring the connection between physical activity and personal growth
Heller also volunteers as a dance instructor at GiGi’s Playhouse, where she works with children and adults in educational, therapeutic, and developmental programs that support individuals with Down syndrome and their families
Future Goals
Taite Heller has been selected to serve as a Teaching Assistant in Human Gross Anatomy. In this role, she will assist faculty members in preparing and dissecting human cadavers, help lead weekly laboratory sessions, and mentor fellow students She is also working toward obtaining her Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification while seeking opportunities to gain direct patient care experience before applying to PA school
Through her dedication to academics, athletics, research, leadership, and community engagement, she continues to build the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to make a positive impact in healthcare and serve future patients with compassion and professionalism
