Patti Jewell
King Centre alumna · AYDC · Seton Hall University
A King Centre alumna and longtime educator who returned to the studio where she grew up, now teaching and performing with the New Jersey Foundation for Dance and Theatre Arts.
In the studio
Patti grew up training at the King Centre from the age of 7. She joined the American Youth Dance Company at the age of 9 and continued her training for the next 10 years. She studied under the direction of Nancy King, Natalie King Smith, and Karyn Collins, all of whom enriched Patti's technical and artistry skills.
Following her time at the King Centre, Patti went on to study at Seton Hall University where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Special Education and was part of the dance team there for 3 years.
Following graduation Patti has taught students for the past 13 years ranging from PreK to eighth grade.
She has since had 3 children and when it was time for her two daughters to start dance, there was no question. Patti enrolled them at the King Centre to study under the direction of the same teachers with whom she once trained and more!
Patti now enjoys performing in the New Jersey Foundation for Dance and Theatre Arts' performance of The Nutcracker every year along with teaching her classes. She strives to create a learning environment that allows all students, regardless of skill or learning ability, an opportunity to grow, perform, and love dance.