Debbe-Ann Medina has taught at Santa Rosa Junior College since 1980, and retired from her full-time position as the Dance Coordinator/dance instructor upon the conclusion of the Spring 2016 semester. She continues to teach now as an adjunct dance instructor in the KAD department. Over the years, Ms. Medina has taught Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop/Funk, Introduction to Movement, Latin Dance, Aerobic Dance, Step Aerobics, Weight Training, Aqua Calisthenics, Body Conditioning and Body Mechanics, along with courses involved with performances and the annual Spring Dance Concert. Debbe-Ann received the honorable State Community College Organization of Physical Educators Dance Educator of the Year award for the 2007-2008 school year. SCOPE presented Ms. Medina with this award based on the demonstrated accomplishments she had achieved in over 27 years of teaching. Debbe-Ann’s educational background began as a student/gymnast at SRJC. Transferring to San Jose State University, she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree and Secondary Teaching Credential in Physical Education. While at SJSU she was a competitive gymnast. Her Master of Arts Degree was received from Sonoma State University in Physical Education (Kinesiology), with special studies in Exercise Physiology. During her studies at SSU, Debbe-Ann served as Assistant Professor in the Physical Education Department while also coaching the gymnastics team. Immediately following her time at SSU, Debbe-Ann was a soloist in the Rec Russel Jazz Dance Company. Shortly after she opened her dance studio, The Dance Place, in Santa Rosa. It was at The Dance Place where dance company, Silverlace, originated and where Debbe-Ann began teaching classes for the Junior College. Debbe-Ann has mentored countless SRJC students, watching their progress evolve from budding novices to confident, accomplished artists. She takes great pride and delight in the success and determination of all her students, regardless of activity and skill level. She is a strong educator with a terrific sense of humor who expects as much from her students in class as she demands of herself.