FACULTY

Elise Young

Studio Owner

It is with so much joy and humility that I step into ownership of BUA. I grew up in Evergreen, Colorado, where I began dancing at the age of three. That early spark turned into a lifelong love for dance, leading me to study a variety of styles including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary.

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I danced competitively throughout high school, and went on to study dance at IU Bloomington. AT IU, I had the privilege of working with many world renowned choreographers while earning a BFA in Dance, a minor in Small Business & Entrepreneurship, and an MS in Finance.

Teaching has always been part of my story—I began assisting classes at 13, and I’ve taught in some capacity ever since! In addition to teaching dance, I have taught at Pure Barre Bloomington as a barre instructor since 2018. It wasn’t until I began teaching in a faith-based setting that I truly understood how powerful dance can be. Partnering with City Church, I helped launch a kids theatre group and have choreographed & performed with the women’s dance group. Watching young dancers worship through movement renewed my love for dance and filled me with a new purpose. I realized that what I loved most  but empowering others to express joy and worship through dance.

I feel so blessed to step into ownership of Bloomington United Arts. I believe our Creator made us to be creative, and I want this studio to be a place where students are encouraged to pursue excellence, express themselves boldly, and find joy in movement. My hope is that every student who walks through our doors feels seen, valued, and empowered to use their God-given gifts in a powerful way.