MEET THE FACULTY
Motion Dance Center
GET TO KNOW THE FACULTY
Our studio is home to an extraordinary group of passionate, talented, and dedicated professionals who are committed to nurturing and inspiring dancers of all ages and levels. Each member of our team brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a unique teaching style, creating a vibrant and supportive environment for our students. Get to know the exceptional individuals who make Motion Dance Center a place where creativity, excellence, and a love for dance flourish.
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | OWNER
Karen Deffner
Karen Deffner is the Artistic Director and Founder of Motion Dance Center. An extraordinary figure in the dance world, Karen's career is truly inspirational. From a young age, her passion for dance has driven her to become the accomplished professional she is today. Her journey from dancer to artistic director highlights her dedication and expertise. With extensive training in various dance styles, Karen's versatility is unmatched. She has not only shined on stage but has also consulted numerous schools and dance studios nationwide, sharing her knowledge and passion. Karen has earned national recognition through appearances on TV shows like "DCC Making the Team" and CW30 in Houston, TX, and performances at prestigious events alongside world-class professionals. Her achievements include certifications from respected institutions such as Dance Vision, Dance Educators of America, NDCA, Dance Teacher Web, and Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT). Remarkably, Karen founded the Miracle Dance Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing dance opportunities for children of all ages. Through this foundation, Karen gives back to the community and nurtures the next generation of dancers. Karen Deffner's story is one of persistence, tenacity, and dedication. As a young female entrepreneur, she has shattered stereotypes and blazed a trail in the dance world, inspiring countless others to pursue their passions and dreams.
DANCE DIRECTOR
Skylor Sansing
Skylor Sansing, a versatile and accomplished dancer, began her dance journey at the age of 4, mastering various styles including jazz, contemporary, hip hop, lyrical, and pom. Her unwavering dedication and immense talent have earned her an impressive array of national titles, both as a soloist and as a key member of a top-tier dance team, consistently securing top 3 positions on national and international stages. Originally from Houston, Texas, Skylor's pursuit of excellence led her to the vibrant dance scene of New York City, where she spent the past 6 years refining her skills under the guidance of world-renowned ballroom coaches. Her entry into ballroom dance at 17 marked the beginning of another remarkable chapter, as Skylor quickly rose to prominence as a rising star, claiming numerous titles and cementing her status as a national 9-dance finalist. In addition to her impressive dance career, Skylor Sansing is a respected figure in the dance community. She served as the Dance Director of one of Manhattan's most prestigious studios, where her leadership and artistic direction significantly contributed to the studio's reputation as a hub for excellence in dance education and performance. Skylor Sansing's journey through the world of dance is a testament to her versatility, dedication, and passion for pushing the boundaries of artistic expression in every style she embraces.
DANCE & TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENT
Darian Lopez
Darian Lopez exemplifies the achievements possible when hard work, dedication, and a passion for dance come together. During her time with Motion Dance Center, she has progressed from instructor to Dance & Technique Development Coordinator, making a tremendous impact on our students and the entire MDC family. Over the past six years, Darian has shaped the lives of children through the art of dance. She began dancing at the age of three in Monterrey, Mexico, and has been unstoppable since. Darian is trained in multiple dance styles, including ballet, tap, lyrical, jazz, hip-hop, and many others. After high school, she pursued further dance education and earned a Bachelor's degree in International Commerce with a minor in Dance. She holds dance certifications from prestigious institutions such as PBT (Progressing Ballet Training), DEA (Dance Educators of America), and DTA (Dance Teachers of America) from the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. Miss Darian has won multiple awards and recognitions with her dance team, "The Strutters," and our Motion Company Team. Her journey is a shining example of dedication and excellence in the dance world.
PROFESSIONAL CHOREOGRAPHER
Aldair Rangel "Coach Al"
Aldair started dancing in Monterrey, Mexico, where he was born. Surrounded by art and dance, Aldair quickly fell in love with the craft. Dance became a medium for him to express creativity through body movement, playfulness, and partnered dance. Aldair Rangel has been trained in flamenco and folklorico dancing since the age of seven. In 2010, at the age of 14, he moved to Brownsville, Texas, where he earned a scholarship to Bella's Artes Academy under Juan Jose Burgos. At the academy, he expanded his repertoire to include ballet, ballroom, jazz, flamenco, and more. Aldair was also a member of the Veterans Memorial High School dance team, serving as co-captain in his senior year. In 2014 and 2015, Aldair became a ballroom finalist at the BISD Red Hot Ballroom Dance Competition. In 2019, he moved to Houston, Texas, to further his dance career and growth. Aldair is certified with Dance Teacher University in Las Vegas and has been a proud faculty member at Motion Dance Center since the fall of 2021. Aldair has won multiple awards in ballroom and commercial dance competitions with his students across the country. His passion for dance is evident, and his goal is to continue inspiring his students to reach their full potential.
ADMINISTRATOR
Giselle Pina
Giselle Pina is a motivated and results-driven administrator, dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service and passionate about management and business administration. With a proven track record of achieving company goals through collaborative teamwork, Giselle brings a wealth of experience and commitment to every project she undertakes. Beyond her administrative expertise, Giselle has an extensive background in athletics. She began her journey in various sports at the age of three before fully dedicating herself to soccer. After completing high school in South Texas, Giselle earned the opportunity to pursue higher education at the University of North Texas in Dallas. During her college years, she actively participated in numerous tournaments, games, and outreach activities with her soccer team nationwide. In 2022, Giselle moved to Houston, where she strengthened her project management and business strategy skills at Motion Dance Center. She has played a pivotal role in coordinating recitals and ballroom competitions and has collaborated with Ballroom Dance Company LLC and Miracle Dance Foundation in Brownsville, TX. Giselle is passionate about inspiring younger generations to reach their goals while enjoying their time on the dance floor, making her an invaluable asset to any team or project.