Ink Faculty
Ink Faculty are required to have the following clearances, It is extremely important to Ink Cares that any staff member or volunteer provide these clearances before date of hire.
Act 151 (Child Abuse Clearance)
Act 34 ( Criminal History)
Act 114 (FBI Fingerprint)
Mandated Reporter Training
Stephanie Masullo
CEO- Chief Executive Officer
Stephanie Masullo is the founder of Dance Ink and Ink Cares, with over 20 years of teaching experience. Certified in Vaganova ballet through the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, she specializes in ballet, pointe, variations, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, and conditioning, with broad expertise across many styles. As a respected educator and adjudicator, she has taught in schools nationwide, with students going on to train at top institutions like the Bolshoi, SAB, The Rock, and ABT. Her dancers have performed for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Dollywood, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and have earned regional and national titles.
Stephanie’s teaching philosophy focuses on proper technique, artistry, and storytelling—while prioritizing kindness, empathy, responsibility, self-discipline, confidence, and pride. She believes in leading by example, helping students become role models and world changers—all through the power of dance.
Her vision for the future of Dance Ink is to build a community of like minded individuals who use their unique talents to bring light to others through dance. She aims to provide a safe, inspiring space to grow, deliver extraordinary opportunities to work with industry legends, offer life skills and leadership development, and make a lasting impact through community service, performances, and giving back—making the city better through the arts.
Alivia Jane
COO- Chief Operations Officer
Competition Director
Alivia Jane is the Chief Operations Officer and Competition Director at Dance Ink in Carnegie, Pennsylvania.
A Pittsburgh native, she began her dance training at the age of three at the renowned Abby Lee Dance Company, where she developed a strong technical foundation across a wide range of disciplines, including Contemporary, Ballet, Pointe, Musical Theatre, Tap, Acrobatics, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, and Jazz.
Throughout her competitive career, Alivia trained with and learned from some of the industry’s most respected choreographers while competing at prestigious events across the United States. In 2015, she launched her professional dance career, booking her first commercial project in singer-songwriter Todrick Hall’s music video Freaks Like Me. She also appeared in pop artist Mack Z’s music video Girl Party and has performed in numerous charitable events, including the Bravery & Beauty Fashion Show benefiting the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh and Happy Heart Day, supporting inner-city schools in downtown Pittsburgh.
Alivia joined the Dance Ink faculty in 2020 and has since become an integral part of the studio’s leadership. She earned her Yoga Teacher Certification in 2022 and became Acrobatic Arts Certified in 2024. In addition to serving as Chief Operations Officer and Competition Director, she is a member of the Board of Trustees for Ink Cares, the nonprofit organization supporting Dance Ink’s community initiatives, and plays a key role in developing and choreographing for the studio’s pre-professional training program.
As an educator and choreographer, Alivia is passionate about helping dancers build strength, flexibility, and confidence through safe, effective training rooted in biomechanics and proper technique. She is committed to fostering both technical excellence and artistic growth, creating an encouraging environment where dancers are empowered to reach their full potential.
Alivia’s choreography has earned recognition at many of the nation’s leading competitions, including Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), Universal Ballet Competition (UBC), Revel Dance Convention & Competition, Sheer Elite, All Out, and numerous regional and national events. Through her leadership, choreography, and mentorship, she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers while helping shape Dance Ink’s reputation for excellence.
Hannah Santoro
Chief People & Experience Officer (CPXO)
Studio Director
Hannah Santoro discovered her passion for dance at just three years old, beginning her training at Darlynn’s School of Dance & Gymnastics and Rostraver Dance Academy before continuing her education for over a decade at Shirley Dean’s School of Dance. There, she developed a strong technical foundation across Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern/Lyrical, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop, while also stepping into leadership roles—choreographing original works, assisting with younger students, and mentoring peers. In her senior year of high school, Hannah co-founded her school’s first-ever dance team, serving as captain and leading performances alongside the marching band.
Alongside her dance training, Hannah cultivated a deep love for music by studying piano for 15 years. Throughout her dance & musical training, she has earned recognition for her dedication, hard work, & artistry through annual performances and multiple awards.
Hannah’s professional journey expanded into the hospitality industry after earning her Associate’s Degree in Travel & Hospitality Management. Over five years, she built a strong foundation in customer experience, operations, and leadership—ultimately advancing to Front Office Manager. Her time in hospitality sharpened her ability to lead teams, create meaningful guest experiences, and foster positive workplace culture. She also played an active role in her company’s CARE Committee, focusing on employee engagement, satisfaction, and community involvement.
In March 2022, Hannah returned to her roots in the arts by joining Dance Ink as an instructor and choreographer. Since then, she has played a key role in the organization’s growth and culture. Now serving as Chief People & Executive Officer (CPXO) and Studio Director, Hannah leads with a people-first approach, overseeing staff development, organizational culture, and strategic operations—while continuing to actively teach, choreograph,
and mentor students.
She is also a driving force behind Ink Cares, where she leads impactful community outreach initiatives, builds meaningful partnerships, and creates service opportunities that empower students to grow as both artists and leaders.
Known for her energy, creativity, and strong leadership, Hannah is passionate about creating environments where both students and staff feel inspired, supported, and valued. She continues to blend her background in dance, hospitality, and leadership to elevate the Dance Ink experience—ensuring every interaction leaves a lasting positive impact.
Melanie Frye
Dance Competition Team Assistant Manager
Dance Ink & Ink University Instructor
Melanie Frye recently graduated from Seton Hill University with a degree in both Pre-Dance
Movement Therapy and Dance Choreography. Melanie trained at Seton Hill University Dance
Academy on their competitive team for six years and has been dancing for a total of 19 years.
She has trained in a variety of styles such as ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, musical
theater, hip hop, contemporary, pointe, heels, pom, and acro. She has taught at local dance
studios such as, Seton Hill University Dance Academy, Westmoreland Dance Alliance, and Jean
Cooke Dance Studio, and is excited to be a new member of the Dance Ink faculty. She really
enjoys teaching children the art and discipline of dance while creating a safe and fun
environment for her students to shine and grow as individuals.
Julia Dominiquez
Dance Ink & Ink University Instructor
Julia Dominguez, originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, began dancing at the age of four at Scrivas Dance Studio. By the age of five, she was accepted onto the studio’s Competition Team, where she trained and competed for thirteen years. Throughout her competitive career, Julia danced at the advanced level in a variety of styles, including jazz, lyrical, pointe, contemporary, tap, hip hop, musical theater, and acro.
In addition to performing, Julia has gained valuable experience in teaching and choreographing, and has worked closely with students, parents, and fellow instructors. Her passion for dance continues to grow, leading her to pursue a dual degree in Dance and Education at Point Park University.
Julia’s collegiate performance credits include faculty and student choreographed works at Point Park University. Most notably, she performed in Inevitable as a dancer and flyer, choreographed by Kiki Lucas. She has also been featured in several student works such as Resilience Doesn’t Rest by Mackenzie Brown, It’s Just About Love by Paris Robinson, and His Music, His Soul by Samantha Barboza — just to name a few.
She also trained and performed with FireWall Dance Theater during their Summer Intensive, appearing as a dancer and soloist in works like Seven and Choose Wisely. During this time, she had the opportunity to dance alongside and learn from artists including Elisa-Marie Aliao, Carly Dicola, Jenna Rae Smith, Brandon Coleman, Darren McArthur, Corey Wise, and Hannah Ruben.
In her early years, Julia co-created and performed in various self-choreographed works, including the multi–first place winning duet Rescue You, choreographed with Chloe Sadowski. Her choreographic experience also includes presenting original work at the Pittsburgh Playhouse during the 2024 Remake Learning Assembly, as well as choreographing a variety of recreational and competitive dances through Ink Cares.
Julia is driven by a deep desire to inspire young dancers and make a meaningful impact on their journeys. She is proud to be part of the Dance Ink team and is grateful to contribute to such a creative and supportive community.
Nick D'Angelo
Dance Ink Instructor
Point Park University undergraduate Nick D’Angelo is a Pittsburgh-based dancer, as well as an educator and choreographer at Dance Ink. With 12 years of performance experience, Nick is eager to share his passion and expertise. He aims to inspire and empower students to explore their creativity, develop their skills, and thrive in a supportive learning environment.
Elaine Martinez
Dance Ink Instructor
My name is Elaine María Martínez Coro. I am originally from Cuba, where I began my professional training as a dancer at the Professional School of Arts of Matanzas. I later completed my Master’s degree in Ballet Teaching at the Professional Superior School of Camagüey, with certification in Havana, Cuba.
I worked in Cuba as both a ballet dancer and instructor for approximately 10 to 15 years, gaining extensive experience and collaborating with renowned Cuban and international ballet professionals.
In January 2015, I moved to the United States and began working in Florida, teaching at studios in St. Petersburg and Tampa. Later, I relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where I continued my career as a ballet instructor at several academies, including Dance by Hillary and Borellis Dance Gallery, among others.
With many years of teaching and performance experience, I bring strong technical knowledge, professional discipline, and a passion for classical ballet instruction. I am currently working with Dance Ink and look forward to continuing to grow and contribute to the studio for many years to come.
Alyson Young
Dance Ink Instructor
Alyson Young is a Pittsburgh native who began her dance training at Rosalene Kenneth’s Dance Studio and continued under the mentorship of Broadway performer Karen Prunzik. She earned her BA in both Dance and English from James Madison University in 2011.
After graduation, Alyson moved to New York City, where she lived for 11 years pursuing dance and working in the fitness industry. She trained clients at corporate sites and boutique studios across the city and holds certifications in Personal Training, Corrective Exercise, 500-Hour Yoga, Mat Pilates, Spin, and most recently, Injury Prevention through Sugarfoot Therapy.
Alyson is a passionate tap dancer who studied extensively in NYC with Ray Hesselink and Rashaan James. She recently completed her Level 1 & 2 Tap Teacher Certifications with Hillary-Marie and brings a rhythm-driven, encouraging, and technically grounded approach to her classes.
Now in her third season at Dance Ink, Alyson is thrilled to be back in Pittsburgh—where she returned two years ago—sharing her love of dance and movement with the next generation.
Alyson Young
Dance Ink Instructor
Alyson Young is a Pittsburgh native who began her dance training at Rosalene Kenneth’s Dance Studio and continued under the mentorship of Broadway performer Karen Prunzik. She earned her BA in both Dance and English from James Madison University in 2011.
After graduation, Alyson moved to New York City, where she lived for 11 years pursuing dance and working in the fitness industry. She trained clients at corporate sites and boutique studios across the city and holds certifications in Personal Training, Corrective Exercise, 500-Hour Yoga, Mat Pilates, Spin, and most recently, Injury Prevention through Sugarfoot Therapy.
Alyson is a passionate tap dancer who studied extensively in NYC with Ray Hesselink and Rashaan James. She recently completed her Level 1 & 2 Tap Teacher Certifications with Hillary-Marie and brings a rhythm-driven, encouraging, and technically grounded approach to her classes.
Now in her third season at Dance Ink, Alyson is thrilled to be back in Pittsburgh—where she returned two years ago—sharing her love of dance and movement with the next generation.
Solomon Onyukwu
Dance Ink Vocal Instructor
Solomon Onyukwu, baritone, is from PG County, Maryland. Solomon has been singing professionally for several years. He has studied gospel, r & b, soul, contemporary and recently Classical music. Solomon is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Vocal Performance from Carnegie Mellon University, where he is a student of Professor Sari Gruber. He has performed at places such as Carnegie Hall, Opera in the Ozarks, Utah Vocal Arts Academy and several churches alike. Most recently he has performed the role of Decio in Vivaldi’s Ottone in Villa with Carnegie Mellon University Opera.
Summer Kaczynski
Ink University Instructor
Summer Kaczynski has been training and performing in dance for around 10 years. Her competitive training started at Abby Lee Dance Company, then she moved to Elite Dance By Damian after 6 years of training at Abby’s. For two years, she has also trained in ballet at Pittsburgh Ballet House which consists of two performances per year. Summer has performed the ballet’s The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty. She has attended Westinghouse Arts Academy for her high school education, four years as a dance major. We have had two or more performances per year at Westinghouse including, the Holiday Spectacular, “All Together Now” Gala, and the Sock Hop Fundraiser Gala. After high school she moved on to continue pursuing her love of dance at Point Park University to complete a BFA in Jazz Dance, and is currently working towards a Masters in Business Administration degree. Her training consists of advanced jazz, ballet, modern, and contemporary, and has learned choreographic skills as well
as methods of teaching dance.
Ella Flores
Ink University Instructor
Ella Flores is a sophomore at Point Park University, pursuing her degree in Dance. She received her dance training at The Colony and Expressions Dance Center, where she developed her passion for movement and performance. Her expertise spans in Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, and Musical Theatre, and she loves helping students discover confidence and creativity through dance. Having grown up in a collaborative, team-oriented studio environment, Ella values teamwork, positivity, and dedication—qualities she brings to every class she teaches. She's thrilled to share her love for performing arts with the students at Ink University and can't wait to watch them learn, grow, and have fun!
Mary Ferro
Dance Ink Piano Instructor
Mary Ferro was born and raised in Carnegie, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Carlynton High School and Duquesne University’s School of Music, she began her piano studies at age 7. She has studied with Jane Ferro, (mother,) Patricia Jaynes, (formerly from Carnegie Mellon University and Chatham College,) and Beverly Nero from Duquesne University. Ms. Ferro had also studied under the internationally known vocal coach, Professor Lorenzo Malfatti, (Two of his famous pupils included Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli.)
Her genuine love for the piano became quite evident when at age 12, she began performing as keyboardist with her guitarist twin brother Vince. Mary has served as a professional pianist in various capacities from accompanist to Keyboard I in High School Musicals, Keyboardist in Classic Rock Bands and as a church musician. Ms. Ferro had also been the musical director of the international performing folk group, “I Campagnoli.” This troupe had successfully performed extensively throughout the United States and Europe.
Mary is a former Music Educator from the Carlynton School District and was employed as Choral Director and General Music Instructor. Outside of the music world, Ms. Ferro had been a broadcaster for WDUQ 90.5 FM for two years as the host of the radio show,” Rock Before Your Ears.”
Her love of music and the piano in particular, does not exclude a sense of humor. Some of her Comedienne appearances: The Howie Mandel Talk Show, America’s Funniest People, WOR Radio N.Y.C., Rutube, London England, Y97 with Jimmy and Steve etc. She is author of the newly published book, “From Calabria to Carnegie.”
Alivia Kirk
Ink University Instructor
Alivia Kirk is a freshman at Butler County Community College where she is studying early childhood education. She began dancing at the age of 3 where she studied ballet and tap. At the age of 13 she began dancing competitively, expanding her training by performing even more styles such as lyrical, contemporary, modern, jazz and hip hop. The following year she began student teaching at 14, teaching her own competition and recreational classes. In July of 2022 she received a 3rd place national title soloist as well as several special judges awards for her stage presence and passion. Her love for teaching dance fueled her decision to study early childhood education. She hopes to continue to combine her love for dance and teaching to change the lives of her students and help shape the next generation of performers.
Marla Pecache
Volunteer/Dance Ink Receptionist
Marla Pecache is a proud dance mom of two talented daughters who attend the refined studio of Dance Ink. From a young age, she was passionate about dance, competing in various regional and national competitions for her high school dance team at Montour. This experience not only ignited her love for dance but also instilled in her a deep understanding of the dedication and hard work required to excel in this art form.
Now, as a parent and volunteer at the dance studio, who also serves in a board advisory role at Ink Cares (a nonprofit private foundation), she has the unique privilege of combining her professional skills with her lifelong passion. She is dedicated to supporting our dance families by ensuring smooth communication, organizing events, and fostering a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
She believes in the transformative power of dance and is committed to helping your children discover their potential, build their confidence, and create lasting friendships. She looks forward to welcoming you to our dance family and sharing this incredible journey together!
Gwen Deluca
Volunteer/Dance Ink Receptionist
Gwen Deluca grew up in Beaver County and has lived in the area most of her life. Growing up Gwen danced for nearly 12 years for Christine's School of Dance in Beaver Falls. She was an active athlete in her youth playing team sports like softball and volleyball.
Gwen attended Robert Morris College graduating with a BSBA in Human Resources Management as the first graduating class of the University. She then continued her education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania receiving a 4.0 Master of Arts degree in Industrial and Labor Relations.
However, Gwen's greatest accomplishment are her two children, both dancers at Dance Ink by Louise and Dance Ink Pittsburgh.
Gwen believes in supporting her youth grow in their passions with respect, class, service, and love.
Gwen must mention that all of her accomplishments and drive would not be possible without a lifetime of family support b y her parents and her husband Anthony.