Jamie Vallejo (she/hers)

Dancer, Educator and Community Leader, Ensemble Member

Training and Background
A native of Houston, Texas, Jamie Vallejo has dedicated over 25 years to studying and performing a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and Latin rhythms. Growing up as a competitive performer, she honed her skills across these disciplines, building a strong foundation in both technique and artistry.

Ms. Vallejo was first introduced to West African dance in 2000 by Suzannah Kincannon, co-founder of Lannaya, while studying at the University of Texas. This experience sparked a lifelong passion for the art form, leading her to join Lannaya in 2013. She continues to deepen her connection to West African dance and hopes to travel to Africa in the near future to further her knowledge and understanding of its rich traditions.

Professional Roles
Ms. Vallejo currently directs the dance program at KIPP Austin Collegiate, part of the nationally recognized “Knowledge Is Power Program” (KIPP) network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory public schools. As the Founding Dance Director for KIPP Texas – Austin, she has steadfastly promoted Lannaya’s programs and events to her students and educational contacts, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural dance traditions within her community.

In addition to her work in education, Ms. Vallejo serves as a choreographer and contest judge for the American Dance/Drill Team School, where she shares her expertise and passion for dance with the next generation of performers.

Key Achievements

• Longstanding member of Lannaya since 2013, actively contributing to the ensemble’s mission and performances.
• Founding Dance Director at KIPP Texas – Austin, where she integrates cultural dance education into her curriculum.
• Promotes Lannaya’s events and programs to students and educational networks, expanding the ensemble’s reach and impact.

Personal Note
As a dedicated educator, performer, and community leader, she is committed to using dance as a tool for cultural preservation, education, and empowerment. Her journey with Lannaya reflects her deep respect for the transformative power of West African dance and her desire to inspire others through movement and storytelling.