IGNITE ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

PARKER WIESS

Since graduating from IGNITE, Parker has continued building his career as a dancer and performer, working as a Pro Assistant with Hollywood Connection while taking on professional opportunities in both LA and Seattle. We love watching our alumni take their training beyond the studio—and we’re especially lucky that Parker continues to be such an important part of the IGNITE community!

A few highlights from Parker’s work since graduating:

Hollywood Connection — Pro Assistant
Pokémon World Championships 2025
“Liberation” — Music Video
Can Can — This Is Halloween
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker
Jeremy Hudson — “Vogue” Video
Universal Studios — Minion Dancer

We’re so proud of everything Parker is doing and can’t wait to see what comes next!

SAYA BETZLER

Since graduating from IGNITE and high school in 2021, Saya has accomplished so much both academically and professionally while continuing to pursue her love of dance.

She earned her bachelor's degrees in International Business and Marketing, along with her MBA in Finance, from Gonzaga University. During her time at Gonzaga, she served as President of Gonzaga Women in Business and danced on the Gonzaga Bomb Squad Hip Hop Team all four years.

After graduation, Saya moved to Portland to begin her career with Toyota Motor North America, where she currently manages 11 dealerships throughout Southern Oregon as a District Service & Parts Manager.

And because dance has always been a part of her story, Saya also had the incredible opportunity to continue performing as an NBA Blazer Dancer for the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2025–2026 season.

We are so proud of everything Saya has accomplished and love seeing her thrive in both her professional career and her passion for dance. We can't wait to see where her journey takes her next!

LAUREN DERHEIM

Since graduating from IGNITE, Lauren has continued pursuing her passion for dance while earning her bachelor’s degree from Chapman University in Dance and Strategic & Corporate Communication.

During her time at Chapman, Lauren has continued to grow as a dancer, choreographer, and leader—finding opportunities both on and off the stage. From performing and choreographing to working behind the scenes in the dance industry, she has built an incredible college experience while staying deeply connected to dance.

A few highlights from Parker’s work since graduating:

Performed at the Forever Young Palm Springs New Year’s Eve Event
Choreographed and performed in Authenticity Dance’s 2025 Showcase
Served as a World of Dance Events Intern
Raised over $20,500 for Type 1 Diabetes as a Philanthropy Representative
Served as Student Director of Tap Fest Cali 2026
President of the Chapman University Tap Ensemble (2025–Present)

Beyond dance, Lauren has also made giving back a big part of her college experience. Along with raising more than $20,500 for Type 1 Diabetes, she volunteers with Labrador and Friends Dog Rescue.

We are so proud of Lauren and love watching her continue to grow, lead, and pursue the things she’s passionate about. We can’t wait to see what’s next for her!

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