KINGSFORD – Deborah Choszczyk has joined the staff U.P. Dance Academy in Kingsford.

Choszczyk has been teaching ballet, modern/contemporary, ballroom, musical theater and highland dance for more than 40 years in the private and public education sectors including K-12 and higher education.

She works as the assistant professor and dance department director at Lake Superior State University and has been teaching there for seven years. In 2009, Choszczyk designed the very first dance minor program for higher education in the Upper Peninsula.

Besides teaching dance she also produces, directs and choreographs dance productions along with writing her own ballets for the stage. Choszczyk is also currently working towards her yoga certification.

She currently resides in Champion with her husband Dan of 30-plus years.

“U.P. Dance Academy is very excited to have Deborah on board to head the Ballet Program, which will include numerous ballet productions, ballet classes, pre-pointe, pointe, strength and conditioning, yoga, ballroom, dance history, which will prepare dancers for the college level dance majors/minors, at the Kingsford, L’Anse and Ishpeming locations,” a spokesperson said.

Choszczyk will be offering numerous summer programs in all of the above genres.

“Her background and passion for the art will be enjoyed by many at U.P. Dance Academy including students, staff and our community,” academy officials said.