Faculty and Staff

Growing up in South Dakota, I explored ballet, tap and acrobatics in private studios, but "It was during one extraordinary semester at South Dakota State University where contemporary dance found me and wouldn't let go!"

I received a Masters Degree in Dance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and went on to form my own dance company Margo Ruark and Dancers and toured regionally. The Capital Times reviewer wrote, "Ruark knows how to set it up, and play it for what it's worth. With her technical prowess she can accomplish virtually anything she imagines, and it's evident she does just that." One of the many highlights of my career was being invited as guest artist to The Black Horse Theater in Copenhagen, Denmark and teaching in Copenhagen's Adult Education system. 

Margo Ruark is a member of the Dance Studio Owner's Association Inner Circle and the National Dance Education Association.

In addition to her dance education, Margo holds an MBA from DePaul University. You can read more about Margo Ruark's contributions to dance at margoruark.com

 We're thrilled to announce that Kate Dylong has joined our faculty as Hip Hop Instructor. Kate began dancing at age four at none other than the Peggy Rose Academy of Dance! Since then, Kate has trained in many dance styles: ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop. Kate captained her high school and college dance teams, winning state and national titles. She has danced professionally with Ballet Legere, performing in various roles in The Nutcracker for over 20 years. Kate majored in dance at Columbia College and was a founding member of Chicago’s BOOM CRACK! Hip Hop Dance Company, performing with them on Oprah’s 25th Anniversary. Kate has danced as a background dancer with The Black Eyed Peas and performed concert pieces with principal members of the Joffrey Ballet. With over 10 years of teaching experience, Kate helps students succeed technically while fostering a love for dance. 

Chloe Hernandez brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for dance to our studio. Beginning Fall 2024, she teaches Ballet III, Ballet IV and pointe on Tuesdays and Contemporary and Broadway Jazz on Wednesdays. 

Chloe holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Columbia College Chicago and an Associates in Dance from Harold Washington College. Chloe has honed her skills under the tutelage of esteemed instructors and participated in prestigious programs, including multiple Ballet Summer Intensives with the Joffrey Ballet and four years in the Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker Children’s Cast.

Robyn Esperanza McMahan is currently on a leave of absence and we look forward to her return. 

 Pamela Compasio began playing piano at the age of 7 and by age 9, had also taken up the violin. Her dedication to music led her to pursue a double major in violin and piano at Western Illinois University, complemented by a minor in the bassoon. She is currently an active member of the West Suburban Symphony Orchestra, the West Suburban Chamber Ensemble, and the Symphony of Oak Park/River Forest.