Encouraging Spiritual Enrichment Through Dance Since 1997
Higher Praise Dance Academy
Higher Praise Dance Academy of Detroit, Michigan, is a 501© 3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing spiritual education and praise dance training. Our mission is to offer a diverse range of dance styles to both youth and adults, encouraging personal and spiritual growth, self-development, community service, and outreach opportunities.
We have been in operation since January 1997, hosting annual recitals starting in 1998. Our dance academy is located within the historic First United Methodist Church in Ferndale, Michigan. Since our inception in 1997, Higher Praise Dance Academy has been instrumental in laying a strong foundation for dancers of all levels, cultivating spiritual growth and enrichment.
Why We Stand Out:
Faith-Centered Approach
We integrate faith into our dance education, allowing students to explore the connection between dance and their spiritual journey. Our faith-centered approach provides a unique and meaningful dance experience.
Welcoming Environment
At Higher Praise Dance Academy, our mission is to cultivate a warm and accepting community for dancers of all backgrounds. Embracing diversity, we strive to create an atmosphere where every individual is respected and encouraged.
Experienced Instructors
Our team of experienced instructors brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every class and workshop. With their guidance, you'll receive personalized attention and support to help you reach your dance goals.
Susan Alexander - Director
Susan Alexander is the Executive & Artistic Director of Higher Praise Dance Academy. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Davenport University with extensive outside training in Ballet & Modern Dance from Marygrove College.
Mrs. Alexander has 21 years experience ministering and training youth and adults in Praise Dance. She has organized concerts since 1998, allowing her students to perform and receive awards, trophies, and certificates of completion. Her classes have been highlighted on UPN Channel 50 News, and the Mind, Body, and Soul Section of the Free Press Newspaper. She has received numerous Community Awards, such as the Spirit of Detroit Award, Christian Arts Award, and Testimonial Resolutions from the County of Wayne and the City of Detroit. She is currently directing a new organization called the National Association of Ladies Active in Dance (NALAD), which is an affiliate of Higher Praise Dance Academy.
Mrs. Alexander is the author of two books. One entitled, “How to Develop a Powerful Dance Ministry,” is a Student Training Manual accompanied by a Teacher's Edition. The other is a Christian etiquette book for young girls. She is married, with 3 children, and continues to minister in dance and manage her school full-time.
Sandria Rush - Co-Director
Sandria Rush is the Co-Director of Higher Praise Dance Academy. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Bowling Green State University with a Minor in Dance.
Dria has been dancing since the age of 6. She choreographed her first dance at the age of 10, and started teaching praise dance for churches at the age of 12. She is currently a member of Redeem Church of God in Christ, where she serves as the Dance Ministry Leader. God is using her mightily in choreography as she works on performing arts productions, numerous requests to assist other dance ministries, as well as teach dance to youth and adults in workshops throughout the metro Detroit area.
Testimonials
"Higher Praise Dance Academy has truly transformed my dance journey. The instructors are incredibly talented and inspiring, and the classes have helped me grow both as a dancer and in my faith. I'm so grateful to be part of this amazing community!"
"Higher Praise Dance Academy is an excellent school for Praise Dancers. The teachers train children as well as adults. They love God and pray for and with their students. Ms. Susan is a worshipper herself, and it is reflected in her teaching. I have been with her for well over 10 years. There is a reason I keep coming back and you will too."
"Ms. Susan Alexander is great with the children! Her love for God, children, and dance is very evident. My daughter enjoys the ballet and praise dance classes and I love that she is being positively influenced to love God and be pure!"