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
Alivia Jane is from Pittsburgh, PA, and is the Chief Operations Officer of Dance Ink, located in Carnegie, PA. She began dancing at the age of 3 at the Abby Lee Dance Company in Pittsburgh, PA. She is trained in multiple styles of dance including Contemporary, Ballet, Pointe, Musical Theatre, Tap, Acrobatics, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, and Jazz. Alivia has traveled to multiple cities around the country competing in dance and learning from some of the best choreographers in the world.
Alivia started her professional dancing career in 2015 and booked her first job with Singer/Songwriter Todrick Hall in his music video "FREAKS LIKE ME." You can also find Alivia in Pop Star Mack Z's music video "Girl Party." She has performed at multiple shows, including the "Bravery and Beauty Fashion Show" benefiting the Greater Pittsburgh Women’s Shelter and Crisis Center, which supports victims of domestic violence, and "Happy Heart Day," benefiting inner-city schools in downtown Pittsburgh.
Alivia began her teaching career at Dance Ink in 2021. In 2022, she became a certified Yoga teacher, and in 2024, she became Acrobatic Arts Certified. Alivia is also a member of the Board of Trustees for Ink Cares and choreographs for Dance Ink, including their pre-professional program.
Alivia's passion lies in teaching dancers the intricacies of flexibility and strength. She combines her love for dance with a deep understanding of biomechanics to create tailored training programs. Alivia focuses on nurturing both physical capabilities and artistic expression, emphasizing patience and encouragement throughout the process. Her goal is to empower dancers to achieve greater flexibility, strength, and overall resilience in their craft.
Hannah Santoro
Director of Talent & Culture
Hannah’s passion for dance began at the young age of 3. She began 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 trained extensively in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern/Lyrical, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop, mastering a wide range of styles. During her time at Shirley Dean’s, Hannah choreographed original pieces, volunteered as a teacher for younger students, and developed her leadership skills. In her senior year of high school, she co-founded her school’s first-ever dance team, serving as its captain and leading the group to perform with the marching band.
Beyond dance, Hannah also excelled in music, studying piano for 15 years. She showcased her talent at annual recitals/showcases and earned multiple awards for her dedication and artistry.
Hannah later pursued a career in Hospitality after earning her Associate's Degree in Travel & Hospitality Management. Over the course of five years, she honed valuable skills in customer service, business operations, and leadership, earning recognition and promotions that culminated in her role as Front Office Manager. She was an active member of her company’s CARE committee, focusing on employee/guest satisfaction and community involvement.
In March 2022, Hannah returned to her roots in the arts by joining Dance Ink as an instructor and choreographer. Today, she combines her passion for dance, teaching, and community as the Director of Talent & Culture for Ink Cares. In this role, she creates a supportive and inspiring environment for both students and faculty while leading community outreach initiatives. Hannah’s goal is to make a meaningful impact by blending her love for the arts with her leadership and hospitality experience, ensuring every interaction is a rewarding one.
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.
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.
Annastassia Stewart
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!
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.
Zoie Sabreah
Dance Ink Instructor
Zoie Sabreah is an actor, choreographer, and director studying at Point Park
University in Theatre Arts and Cinema Studies. They grew up in Frederick, Maryland where they
did competitive dancing and professional acting. As an artist, Zoie is passionate about creating
innovative and thought-provoking works that challenge societal norms. Primarily through the
genres of musical theatre, contemporary, and jazz; their artistic style is characterized by a
fearless approach to experimentation, often incorporating elements of surrealism and avant-garde
techniques to craft unique and immersive experiences for their audiences. Zoie takes great joy in
teaching young artists and performers, bringing together diverse perspectives and talents to
create truly original works of art. Whether through performance, direction, or other creative
endeavors, Zoie's art always seeks to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. Zoie hopes
to inspire others to embrace their unique perspectives and voices, and to celebrate the power of
creativity and individuality.
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.
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.”
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.