At the Joanne Langione Dance Center (JLDC), our mission extends far beyond perfecting pirouettes and pliés. For decades, we’ve been shaping confident, passionate, and resilient young dancers—individuals who not only master the technique but also embody discipline, artistry, and dedication in all aspects of their lives.
Today, we’re proud to spotlight two remarkable JLDC alumni, Riley Newman, who now dances at Boston College, and Renee Rogers, a current dancer on the Northeastern Dance Team. Their College Dance Journeys reflect the strength, perseverance, and excellence instilled in them during their time at JLDC.
This past year, Renee and her teammates made history, as the Northeastern University Dance Team won the 2025 NDA Division 1 Team Performance National Championship. A true testament to their dedication, teamwork, and passion.
From game day performances to national competitions, they’ve brought their JLDC training with them. Here, they reflect on the transition from JLDC to collegiate dance and the lessons that continue to guide them. Here, they reflect on the transition from JLDC to collegiate dance and the lessons that continue to guide them throughout their College Dance Journeys.
Describing JLDC in a Few Words:
Riley Newman
“Impactful, formative, and so fun!”
Renee Rogers
“Inspiring, driven, and formative—JLDC felt like a second home where I found my passion, built lifelong friendships, and discovered who I am both on and off the stage.”
Skills That Made a Difference:
For both dancers, JLDC wasn’t just a place to dance—it was a training ground for life. They credit their time here for preparing them both technically and mentally for the demands of college-level dance.
Riley:
“Most importantly, I learned self-confidence. Everyone shows up with technical skills at auditions, but it’s your presence, energy, and belief in yourself that truly set you apart.”
Renee:
“JLDC gave me a solid technical foundation and pushed me to become a versatile performer. Learning how to play to my strengths while embracing unfamiliar styles has made all the difference in my college experience.”
Discipline, Teamwork, and Commitment:
College dance demands intense discipline and collaboration—values deeply instilled at JLDC.
Riley:
“From a young age, JLDC held us to a high standard. Being expected to act professionally and take responsibility for our training taught me how to show up for myself. That discipline still grounds me today, even in the chaos of college life.”
Renee:
“I learned to leave distractions at the door and be fully present. JLDC emphasized accountability—not just for your own progress, but for the good of the team. That mindset has stuck with me.”
Adapting to a New Dance Style – Learning Pom:
The biggest stylistic adjustment for both alumni? Pom—a fast-paced, high-energy style central to many college dance teams.
Riley:
“Before college, I had never done pom. It was a challenge at first—the sharpness, the synchronization—but it’s now my favorite style. I love the intensity!”
Renee:
“JLDC teachers tailor choreography to highlight your individuality, but college dance has a signature style that everyone must master. I had to quickly learn pom technique, show up ready with choreography already memorized, and adapt to a faster, more intense rehearsal environment.”
Navigating and Performing Under Pressure:
The ability to perform under pressure is one of the most valuable lessons JLDC alumni carry with them throughout their College Dance Journeys.
Riley:
“JLDC fostered a competitive yet supportive space. There was always pressure to do your best—but it was paired with a deep sense of encouragement. That helped me learn to thrive under pressure rather than fear it.”
Renee:
“At JLDC, I fell in love with dance. That passion still fuels me, especially during long rehearsals or tough weeks. I know the hard work pays off—and I’ve seen it time and time again.”
A “JLDC Prepared Me for This” Moment:
Riley:
“Right before stepping on stage at NDA Nationals my freshman year, the nerves hit hard. But thanks to all the performances and prep at JLDC, I knew exactly how to calm myself and focus. I felt ready.”
Renee:
“My first college dance team audition was intimidating. But I used everything I learned from JLDC—from how to walk into the room confidently to how to perform like the stage was mine. My coach even said my energy is what made me stand out.”
How Their Approach to Dance Has Evolved:
Riley:
“At first, the college season felt like I was just supporting from the sidelines. But I’ve learned the importance of patience, persistence, and trusting the journey. Nationals is where dance takes center stage, and that passion I’ve always had? It never left—it just evolved.”
Renee:
“I now see dance through a dual lens: as both a sport and an art. College dance is about athleticism, endurance, and teamwork. But I still crave the expressive side of dance, which is why I also perform with the Northeastern University Dance Company. It gives me that creative outlet and connection to contemporary and tap.”
Advice for Younger JLDC Dancers:
Riley:
“Keep working hard and trust the process. Push yourself outside your comfort zone—you’ll be amazed at what you can do. And don’t forget to enjoy it!”
Renee:
“Don’t hold back—every class is a chance to grow. Treat rehearsals like performances, and take ballet seriously. It may not feel like the most exciting class, but it will give you control, strength, and awareness that will benefit every style you dance.”
On Balancing It All:
Riley:
“Balancing school, dance, and social life isn’t easy—but JLDC helped me prepare. I used to travel far for class, so I learned early on how to manage my time. Now, I stay organized and give myself grace when things feel overwhelming.”
Renee:
“Being on a college dance team is a major time commitment, but it’s also made me more efficient and focused in other areas of life. JLDC taught me how to stay grounded and intentional with my time, and that foundation has made all the difference.”
JLDC’s Lasting Legacy:
Riley:
“JLDC taught me how to believe in myself, how to lead, and how to build real friendships. Those lessons are still part of who I am today.”
Renee:
“This studio shaped me not just as a dancer, but as a person. It gave me confidence, creative space, and the emotional connection to dance that I’ll carry with me forever.”
From pre-dawn practices to championship performances, JLDC alumni like Riley and Renee are proof that when dancers are equipped with both talent and heart, there’s no limit to what they can achieve. Their College Dance Journeys are a testament to how strong foundations in technique, discipline, and passion can pave the way to success. Whether they’re on the sidelines, in the studio, or facing life’s next big leap, they move forward with the strength of their JLDC training—and the unwavering belief that dance is more than movement. It’s a way of life.
Watch this video of Renee and her teammates leading a workshop for our tween dancers at the beginning of their National Championship season.
