Ballroom Mississippi DanceSport Academy

About Ballroom Mississipp DanceSport Academy

Ballroom Mississippi DanceSport Academy, Inc. (“the Organization”) is a nonprofit charitable and educational organization dedicated to providing accessible dancesport ballroom training to children throughout the State of Mississippi, with a particular focus on underserved and economically disadvantaged communities. The Organization’s programs are designed to promote youth development, arts education, discipline, confidence, teamwork, and cultural enrichment through structured ballroom dance instruction.

In the Media

Meet the Board

Cassandra Walter: Founder/ Executive Director

Cassandra Burney Walter began her career in dance in the early 1970s with the Mississippi Ballet Theater “MBT”, under the direction of beloved Artistic Director, JoBee Best. As a company member of MBT, Cassandra studied classical ballet, modern dance, and Luigi jazz technique as part of the required curriculum. Cassandra received further ballet training at the Julliard School of American Ballet in the late 70s . After leaving New York City she studied dance at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1981.
Cassandra’s training in Luigi technique made it possible for her to continue dancing after obtaining a law degree from Ole Miss in 1988. She was a member of Simply Jazz and the Keri Amis Dancers who performed for many private fundraising events around the state.

While building a successful career in law , Cassandra’s passion for dance did not diminish. She became a ballroom dancer in 2011, after competing in a local “ Dancing with the Stars” fundraising event in support of the Mississippi Opera. Cassandra was trained in all styles of ballroom dance by the late John T. Murphy, formerly a dance director for the Arthur Murray organization.

In 2026, Cassandra founded Ballroom Mississippi and Ballroom Mississippi Dancesport Academy, Inc., Mississippi’s first non-profit Dancesport ballroom academy, whose mission is to make ballroom dance accessible to children of all ages and in all communities throughout the State of Mississippi regardless of location or socioeconomic status.

The Board of Directors salutes and applauds the enthusiasm and vitality that enables Cassandra to spend countless hours in her efforts to promote the art and life skill of ballroom dancing to the State of Mississippi.

Joseph J. (“Jay”) Stroble: Chief Financial Officer

Joseph J. (“Jay”) Stroble was born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in History in 1993. He received a law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1997, where he was a Chancellor’s Scholar.

Prior to attending law school, Jay worked as a financial analyst for the investment bank of Bowles Hollowell Conner & Co. in Charlotte, NC. For approximately twenty-five years, Jay was blessed with a complex national and international civil litigation practice representing large bioscience and pharmaceutical companies. Jay focused on preparing and representing company executives at trial and during deposition.

In or around 2021, wanting to make a different type of contribution, Jay became a teacher and coach at Madison Ridgeland Academy (“MRA”), where he has served for the past five years. Jay teaches Personal Finance, Legal Studies, and US Government. He also serves as the Head Tennis Coach, leading the MRA Tennis Team to three state championships in the past five years, the only state tennis championships in the school’s history.

In his free time, Jay enjoys spending time with his parents, sister, and nieces Kate and Ellie, and with his three rescue dogs, Ridley, Reese, and Carolina. He also enjoys traveling, exercising, playing tennis, and reading.

Laney McNeer: Board Secretary

Laney McNeer is a governmental affairs and business development consultant and founder of Verve Influence Partners, where she advises businesses, associations, and nonprofits on strategic growth, advocacy, and public policy. A graduate of the University of Mississippi and Mississippi College School of Law, Laney has built a career connecting organizations with the people and partnerships that help them thrive.

A lifelong lover of the arts, Laney grew up singing and dancing and now proudly embraces her role as a dance mom to her daughter, Ava. She believes the arts play a vital role in building confidence, discipline, and lifelong skills, and is honored to support the mission of the Ballroom Mississippi Dancesport Academy as a member of its Board of Directors.

Lafayette Kaspar: Board Member

Lafayette Kaspar is a community advocate, communications strategist, and arts supporter dedicated to strengthening organizations through meaningful community engagement and strategic partnerships. She serves on the Mississippi Museum of Art Family Advisory Board and has supported numerous nonprofit, tourism, and cultural initiatives focused on increasing public participation in the arts and family programming.

Professionally, Lafayette specializes in public relations, event hosting, brand strategy, and community outreach, helping organizations build authentic relationships with the audiences they serve. As co-founder of the#KeepinUpWitTheKaspars family platform, she inspires thousands by highlighting travel, arts, education, and cultural experiences that encourage families to explore and connect.

Lafayette is passionate about making the arts accessible to all families and believes creative experiences have the power to build stronger, healthier communities. She looks forward to bringing her experience in communications, partnership development, and community advocacy to support Ballroom Mississippi’s mission and long-term growth.

Brian Wheeland: Board Member

Brian Wheeland brings more than 45 years of experience in the financial services industry and currently serves as a Retail Market Manager in the Retail Banking Division of Trustmark Bank. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to mentoring retail banking associates and preparing them for future leadership and management roles. He also values the opportunity to work directly with customers, including individuals and small business owners, and takes great pride in the high level of customer service delivered by his team.

Mr. Wheeland attended Belhaven College and Binghamton University. His professional background reflects a longstanding dedication to leadership, service, and community-minded engagement.
As a ballroom dancer, Mr. Wheeland recognizes the meaningful impact that Ballroom Mississippi Dancesport Academy will have in the community. He understands that ballroom dance fosters teamwork, discipline, confidence, and stronger social skills. He is especially enthusiastic about sharing his appreciation for the art form with young people and looks forward to the Academy serving as a positive force in shaping and improving the lives of youth in the community.

Ballroom Mississippi DanceSport Academy Programs

Youth Dancesport Ballroom Education Program

The primary activity of the Organization is the Youth Dancesport Ballroom Education
Program. This program provides structured instruction in ballroom dance styles, including
but not limited to Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Rumba, and Swing. Instruction
emphasizes proper technique, musicality, posture, discipline, respect, teamwork, and
artistic expression.

Classes are age-appropriate and skill-level appropriate and incorporate physical
conditioning, movement education, etiquette, and performance skills. The program also
includes opportunities for students to participate in exhibitions, demonstrations, and local
or regional dancesport competitions when appropriate.

Who Benefits

The program serves children and youth throughout Mississippi. Priority is given to children from underserved communities, including low-income families and communities with limited access to arts education programs. The program is open to all eligible participants regardless of race, gender, religion, or background.

Where Services Are Provided:

Instruction is provided at community centers, schools, rented studio spaces, partner
facilities, and other appropriate venues throughout Mississippi. The Organization may also
provide outreach programming at schools, community events, or partner nonprofit
locations.

How Often Programs Occur

Classes are offered on a recurring basis throughout the year. Instruction typically occurs
weekly or multiple times per week depending on location and demand. Special workshops,
intensives, rehearsals, performances, and competition preparation sessions may occur
periodically throughout the year.

Free or Paid Services

The Organization is committed to making services accessible. Programs are offered at low
cost or free of charge whenever possible. Fees may be charged on a sliding scale basis to
cover partial program expenses. Scholarships, fee waivers, and subsidized participation
are provided to ensure that no child is denied participation due to inability to pay.

Who Runs the Program

Programs are conducted by qualified dance instructors, including paid instructors and trained volunteers. Administrative oversight is provided by the Organization’s officers and Board of Directors. Volunteers may assist with instruction, mentoring, supervision, event coordination, and administrative support.

Community Outreach and Access to the Arts Program

The Organization provides community outreach programming designed to introduce
ballroom dance and dancesport to children and families who may not otherwise have
access to formal dance education. These outreach activities include introductory
workshops, demonstrations, school-based programs, and community events.

Who Benefits

Children, families, and community members in underserved areas of Mississippi benefit
from increased exposure to arts education and physical activity. These programs are
designed to spark interest, build confidence, and encourage participation in ongoing
instruction.

Where Services Are Provided:

Outreach activities are conducted in schools, community centers, nonprofit partner
locations, and public event spaces throughout Mississippi.

How Often Programs Occur

Outreach programming occurs periodically throughout the year, often aligned with school
schedules, community events, or special initiatives

Free or Paid Services

Community outreach programs are typically provided free of charge.

Who Runs the Program

Programs are delivered by instructors, staff, and trained volunteers, with oversight by
organizational leadership.

Performance, Competition, and Achievement Pathway Program

The Organization provides pathways for students to participate in performances and
dancesport competitions as a means of goal-setting, discipline, and achievement.
Participation in competitions is educational in nature and emphasizes personal growth,
sportsmanship, and artistic development rather than private benefit.

Who Benefits

Students who demonstrate interest and readiness benefit from expanded opportunities to
showcase skills, gain confidence, and pursue personal excellence.

Where Services Are Provided:

Performances and competitions may occur locally, regionally, or at appropriate venues
consistent with the Organization’s mission.

How Often Programs Occur

These activities occur periodically throughout the year based on readiness, scheduling,
and available resources

Free or Paid Services

Participation fees may apply for competitions; however, the Organization seeks
sponsorships, fundraising, and scholarships to reduce or eliminate costs for students in
need.

Who Runs the Program

Activities are supervised by instructors and volunteers, with oversight from organizational
leadership.

Overall Operations and Public Benefit

All programs are operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. No part of
the Organization’s net earnings inures to the benefit of any private individual. The
Organization’s activities are designed to provide a broad public benefit by expanding
access to arts education, fostering youth development, and strengthening communities
throughout Mississippi.

Scholarships

To apply for any of the scholarships below contact us using the form at the bottom of this page.

"Keri Amis Cosmich Memorial Scholarship

The Keri Amis Cosmich Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the extraordinary life and lasting legacy of Keri Amis Cosmich—a gifted dancer and choreographer, dedicated teacher, devoted mother and grandmother, and a woman whose greatest joy was helping others discover their potential.

Born in Laurel, Mississippi, and raised in Brandon, Keri’s love of dance began at an early age. She trained with Ballet Mississippi, danced as a High Stepper at Hinds Community College, and continued her studies at the School of American Ballet in New York and Philadelphia. After returning home to Mississippi, she devoted herself to sharing her passion by teaching ballet and jazz at Mississippi Ballet Theater and founding two successful jazz companies, Simply Jazz and Keri Amis’s Dancers. Through her instruction, performances, and mentorship, Keri inspired countless young dancers to pursue their dreams with confidence, discipline, and joy.

While dance was one of Keri’s greatest passions, her true gift was making people believe in themselves. She never missed an opportunity to encourage someone, celebrate their accomplishments, or remind them they were capable of more than they imagined. Whether welcoming friends into her warm home, cheering on her children and grandchildren, or mentoring aspiring dancers, Keri led with kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

The Keri Amis Cosmich Memorial Scholarship seeks to continue that legacy by providing financial assistance to deserving students who demonstrate a passion for dance, dedication to their craft, and a spirit of encouragement and service to others. Through this scholarship, Keri’s love of the arts and her belief in the power of mentorship will continue to inspire future generations.

By contributing to this scholarship, you are helping ensure that Keri’s legacy lives on—not only through the memories of those who loved her, but through the dreams of young dancers whose lives will be forever changed by the opportunities your generosity provides.

Together, we can honor Keri’s remarkable life by investing in the next generation of artists, leaders, and compassionate hearts.

John Thomas Murphy Memorial Scholarship

The John Thomas Murphy Memorial Scholarship honors a man whose life was defined by excellence, perseverance, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their best.

John approached every opportunity with enthusiasm and determination. A gifted athlete, he excelled in nearly every sport he pursued. His baseball talent earned him a scholarship offer from Mississippi State University, and he later played semi-professional baseball as a shortstop. He was also an accomplished 5.0-level tennis player, competing well into his sixties and demonstrating that discipline and dedication know no age.

A chance opportunity introduced John to what would become one of the greatest passions of his life—ballroom dancing. After winning a complimentary lesson at Arthur Murray Dance Academy, he immersed himself in the art of international ballroom dance. His love for dance grew into a lifelong pursuit of learning, teaching, and inspiring others. As an accomplished instructor, John shared not only his technical knowledge but also the confidence and joy that dancing brings. His passion carried him to the renowned International Ballroom Dance Championships in Blackpool, England, where he continued to study and celebrate the highest levels of the art form.

At the age of 76, John achieved one of his proudest accomplishments when he won Jackson’s Dancing with the Stars competition alongside his dance partner and dear friend, Cassandra Burney Walter. The achievement reflected his belief that growth, excellence, and the courage to embrace new challenges never have an expiration date.

John’s legacy reaches far beyond his athletic and artistic accomplishments. He believed in hard work, lifelong learning, mentorship, and encouraging others to discover their own potential. As his dear friend Ruth Stockett so beautifully expressed, “John was an artist in all he did”—whether competing in sports, dancing with elegance, serving his clients with integrity, or loving his family and friends with unwavering devotion.

The John Thomas Murphy Memorial Scholarship has been established to carry these values forward by investing in students who demonstrate dedication, perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Through the generosity of those who contribute, John’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to pursue their passions with discipline, integrity, and heart.

By supporting this scholarship, you are helping ensure that the qualities John embodied throughout his life continue to open doors of opportunity for others. His example reminds us that true success is measured not only by personal achievement, but by the lives we encourage, the talents we nurture, and the lasting difference we make in our communities.

JoBee Best Memorial Scholarship

JoBee Best Croskery dedicated her life to the pursuit of artistic excellence and the education of generations of young dancers. A gifted teacher, choreographer, and visionary leader, she inspired countless students to achieve their highest potential while helping shape the landscape of dance education in Mississippi and beyond.

As the beloved Artistic Director of Mississippi Ballet Theatre, Inc., and Ballet Mistress of the Mississippi Ballet Theatre School of Dance in Jackson, Mississippi, JoBee established a reputation for exceptional training and uncompromising artistic standards. During the 1970s, she led a distinguished faculty teaching pre-ballet, beginning ballet, jazz, and modern dance, nurturing dancers with both discipline and compassion.

A true pioneer in arts education, JoBee founded and directed the first dance training program in an elementary academic school in the State of Mississippi through the Fine Arts Department at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. Her innovative curriculum introduced dance as an essential component of a well-rounded education, opening new opportunities for young artists across the state.

JoBee’s choreographic talents earned widespread acclaim. Her production of Oklahoma! for St. Andrew’s, performed at Millsaps College, received outstanding reviews for its artistry and professionalism. She also introduced liturgical dance to St. Andrew’s and choreographed performances for her students at St. Richard Catholic Church, demonstrating the power of dance as both an artistic and spiritual expression.

One of JoBee’s most enduring contributions to Mississippi’s cultural community came after two years of determined planning, when she brought the Atlanta Ballet to Jackson to present the city’s first full-length production of The Nutcracker. By including local dancers alongside the professional company, she created an extraordinary opportunity for young performers while giving Mississippi audiences an unforgettable holiday tradition.

Throughout her distinguished career, JoBee’s students went on to perform with professional ballet companies and pursue successful careers in television, film, and musical theatre. She later continued her teaching career in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, where her passion for excellence continued to inspire aspiring dancers.

JoBee’s own professional training included studies with Ballet Theatre in New York, the School of American Ballet, the University of Utah, and the Gladys Hight School of Dance in Chicago. She further studied ballet with Bobby Barnett and jazz with renowned masters Alex Plaschart, Carlton Johnson, and Luigi, continually refining the techniques she so generously shared with her students.

The JoBee Best Memorial Scholarship honors a woman whose life exemplified artistic integrity, dedication to education, and a profound belief in the transformative power of dance. Through this scholarship, her legacy continues by supporting young artists who share her commitment to excellence, creativity, and lifelong learning.

Make a Donation

Every child deserves the opportunity to grow, dream, and succeed. Your generous donation to Ballroom Mississippi DanceSport Academy helps provide ballroom dance training to children across Mississippi, especially those in underserved and economically disadvantaged communities. Through dance, students gain confidence, discipline, teamwork, and valuable life skills that extend far beyond the dance floor. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps open doors and change lives. Thank you for investing in the future of Mississippi’s youth.

Choose a donation package below.