Desiree has loved dancing her whole life. At the age of four, she began learning Irish Dance. Soon after, she was competing around the country and started teaching dance in early middle school. Around 2002, Desiree switched her focus to swing dancing and began studying Lindy Hop, Blues, and Balboa. Desiree continues to travel to swing dance events around the world to learn, teach, and compete. Desiree especially loves balboa because of its circular momentum, close connection, and intricate footwork. She has received balboa awards from events across North America. Desiree has three graduate degrees in education and provides training for teachers in Chicago public schools. She is currently working on her PhD in Instructional Technology. In 2011, Desiree started Chicago Balboa Underground and she remains dedicated to growing the swing dance scene in Chicago and across the globe. As an instructor and swing dance organizer, Desiree values inclusive practices, trauma-informed approaches, and social justice.