About Maria Ford
After dancing competitively throughout my childhood and youth, I began dancing West Coast Swing in 2004, began competing in 2006, and began teaching in 2007. I won (and often did not win) in top divisions of WCS (All-Star) and Hustle (Professional/Open); I co-choreographed and performed winning West Coast Swing routines, including team and Rising Star divisions. In 2019, I retired from competition and from judging in 2023.
Teaching and community development have always been a focus of my dance-life, including developing students and teachers. This continues today through active social dancing and teaching private lessons, specialty group workshops, and providing teacher training.
Skilled in both roles, I give equal attention and support to leads and follows. I am known for building strong technical foundations, quality of movement, troubleshooting, and excellence in teaching. I most value the opportunity to be a mentor, coach, and be a friend in dance.
I received Master-level WCS instructor certification and WCS judge certification from the Global Professional Dance Instructors Association (GPDIA). I am grateful to have been trained and coached by some of the best Champions, teachers, and innovators in my chosen dance styles. These have shaped me the most: Angel Figueroa, Arjay Centeno, Robert Royston, Brandi Guild, Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Jennifer Deluca, Mario Robau Jr., Fred Price, Tina Price, and Stephanie Risser.
Other influences include:
- My work as a strategic communications professional
- Certification and experience in change management
- Long-time experience teaching adults, including as a college professor, presentation coach, dance instructor, and teacher-trainer