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.
Annastassia Stewart
Musical Theatre Director
Dance Ink & Ink University Instructor
Annastassia Stewart (Miss Anna) has been a theater kid all her life! After high school, she pursued a BFA in Musical Theatre with a minor in Dance from SUNY Fredonia. Following graduation, she toured internationally with Missoula Children's Theatre for 15 months before returning home to Pittsburgh. She used her time during the pandemic to teach virtually while also completing a Master of Education degree in Advanced Teaching. She currently works as a full-time nanny and part-time teaching artist. In her free time, she still participates in shows throughout the area. She has worked with Stage Right School for the Performing Arts in Greensburg, The Strand Theatre in Zelienople, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and Split Stage Productions in Irwin. She can't wait to sing, dance, and act with everyone at Dance Ink!
John Pickup
Dance Ink Master Instructor
Mr. John received his early training from Leeanne Rutherford at Ballet Theatre Australia and later with Peter Shortland and Kathryn Hailey at The Studio. As a dancer he performed with The Wiggles, Lithuanian National Ballet, Gelsey Kirkland Studio Company and New York City Children's Theatre. Mr. John began teaching at Essendon Academy of Ballet, Melbourne Australia before teaching at various schools throughout Sydney and Melbourne. During this time he studied the RAD syllabus under Kathryn Hailey.
After relocating to New York, he began training under Gelsey Kirkland and Michael Chernov as both a dancer and teacher. Mr. John was a faculty member of the Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet and taught in the full day, pre professional and after school programs.
As a professional choreographer Mr Pickup has created works for The Wiggles and Circa 21 Dinner Theater.
When not teaching ballet Mr Pickup still performs in Musical Theater and credits include: Lurch in “The Addams Family” (Surflight Theater) Mr Z “An American in Paris” (Surflight) The Wizard of Oz in “Dorothys adventures in Oz” (92nd Street Y) Colonel Mustard in “Clue, The Musical” (Circa 21) to name a few.
Mr Pickup looks forward to sharing his love of classical ballet with the students of Dance Ink!
Hannah Carter
Dance Ink Master Instructor
Hannah Carter of England joined Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in 2013 after dancing as a corps de ballet member of the Estonian National Ballet. She graduated with honors from the Royal Ballet School in London and performed in a number of productions, including a tour to Spain, with The Royal Ballet. Hannah was promoted to PBT soloist in 2015 and to principal in 2016. Her repertoire with PBT includes Twyla Tharp’s In the Upper Room and Nine Sinatra Songs, Jiří Kylián’s Petit Mort and Sinfonietta, and William Forsythe’s In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated as well as classics, including Swan Lake, Don Quixote and The Nutcracker. Hannah has also performed leading roles in Le Corsaire, La Bayadère and Romeo and Juliet, among others.
Ernie Tolentino
Dance Ink Master Instructor
After being an All-City High School football player and a violinist in the El Paso Texas All-City Orchestra, Ernest Tolentino combined his athletic and music abilities in college. Ernie received a B.M. in Music and Ballet Performance from the University of Texas at El Paso, he danced with Milwaukee Ballet and then the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre for fourteen years rising to rank of soloist. Ernie danced numerous major and principal roles in all Pittsburgh Ballet productions and was featured in classical and contemporary works by Marius Petipa, Patrick Fantz, Ohad Naharin, Domy Reitersoffer, Agnes DeMille, Anthony Tudor and George Balanchine, just to name a few. An audience favorite, Ernie's athletic ability, dramatic characterizations, sensitive and skillful partnering have won acclaims from critics all over the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Taiwan. In 1992 Ernie founded The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Dancers' Trust, a career transition fund for retiring PBT dancers and remains the executive director. He is currently on the teaching staff of the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University and Carnegie Mellon University Pre-College Drama. Ernie is married to former Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre principal Tamar Rachelle, and they have two children.
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.
Leah Nimmo
Dance Ink Instructor
Leah Nimmo is a Pittsburgh, PA native who began dancing at the age of 6 at Arena’s Dance Center. She later moved to the South Hills and danced at Kickline Dance Center from the ages of 13-18. She was also a part of the competitive hip hop team at Peters Township High School where they placed 3rd in the nation her senior year.
Majoring in Dance at Slippery Rock University gave her the opportunity to learn from a variety of faculty and guest artists as well as be introduced to a very wide style of dance. She performed in works by peers as well as faculty and pieces set by professional visiting companies.
After graduation, Leah moved to Chicago, Illinois to dance with Jump Rhythm Jazz project where she performed in the Chicagoland area, toured the Midwest, and had the opportunity to perform in Spain as well. Along with spending many years from scholarship student to full company member with Jump Rhythm, she was also a member of Noumenon Dance Ensemble in Chicago.
She has taught in dance studios in Chicago, Illinois Rochester, New York and Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. She also spent a few semesters as adjunct dance faculty in the Musical Theater department at Nazareth University. Her favorite part of teaching dance is sharing her love for dance, rhythm, and movement with students of all ages.
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.
Wallis Lucas
Dance Ink & Ink University Instructor
Wallis Lucas is a dynamic soprano and passionate advocate for new works, having premiered new operatic, theatrical, and orchestral works this season. Currently, she is touring Daniel de Togni’s song cycle “Songs of Becoming” nationwide with pianist Kevin Lee Sun and recording an EP with Navona Records for release next year.
Recent and upcoming credits include workshops at the Banff Centre for Performing Arts, Time to Act (Pittsburgh Opera), The Magic Flute (Stafford Opera Troupe), Sirens vs. Amazons (Thousand Bridges Opera), The Marriage of Figaro (Opera de Metro), Naughty Marietta (Opera Project Columbus), The Last Five Years (Steel City Cabaret), Agnus Teaches Acting (New Hazlett Theatre), La donna del lago (Resonance Works), Alcina (Carnegie Mellon University). Last season, she also received an Encouragement Award at the Minnesota District of the Metropolitan Opera Competition.
Wallis holds a Bachelor of Music from Furman University and a Master's from Carnegie Mellon university. She also completed a performance certificate at CMU, where she developed and premiered new chamber and orchestral pieces alongside student composers. A Georgia native, Wallis was a state champion 2-baton twirler three years in a row.
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!
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.
Isabella Blough
Dance Ink & Ink University Intern
Isabella Blough is a Senior Dance Education major with a minor in Business at Seton Hill University. From Johnstown, PA, she has been training in a variety of dance styles since the age of three, both recreationally and competitively. Her training includes jazz, modern, tap, contemporary, hip-hop, ballet, and Bollywood. She also participated in a dance study away trip to Ireland, further expanding her experience and appreciation of dance. Throughout school Isabella has been an active member and President of the Student Dance Organization for two years. She also was a member of the Seton Hill’s Dance Team for three years and served as one of the choreographers. Isabella has performed in Fall Dance Concert (2022-2025), Student Works in Progress (2023, 2025, 2026), Spring Spectrum (2023-2026), ACDA Mid-Atlantic Conference (2024 and 2026), Allegro Dance Company (2025), and a dance residency/performance opportunity with Elijah Gibson (2026). She has choreographed in the Fall Dance Concert (2024 and 2025), the Student Show (2023, 2025, 2026), The Jazzy Nutcracker for Seton Hill University Dance Academy (2024), and taught at Wolf’s Performing Arts during summer 2026. Upon graduation Isabella plans to pursue a career in both performing and teaching as well as one day own a business.
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.
Gwen Deluca
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.
Marla Pecache
Volunteer/Housekeeper
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!