Meet The Owners

Amy Stevens-Kaufmann is the daughter of Dr. Tom and Eleanor Stevens. Amy grew up in her family dance studio, Stevens School of Dance & Gymnastics. Amy took classes in all dance styles as well as gymnastics. Amy competed in gymnastics and baton twirling while growing up.  Over the years, Amy participated in Springfield Muni Musicals, Regional Dance Competitions and Summer Dance Workshops. Amy worked with King's Production as a dance performer while in college. Amy graduated from Butler University in 1986 with a degree in dance. Butler is known for its classical ballet and strong dance technique. Amy returned to Stevens and taught for her family business. Amy has judged Springfield Ballet Company auditions as well as talent shows both locally and at the state level over the years. Amy was a gymnastics judge and also traveled to choreograph floor routines for local teams. Amy is a member of the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters. Amy is also a certified coach in the United States Tumbling Association. She loves her time spent with students of all ages and hopes she can make a positive impact in her students lives. 

Calla Merriman is a Jacksonville native. She quite literally grew up at Stevens School of Dance & Gymnastics. She took dance, tumbling and cheerleading throughout her childhood. Calla trained with various teachers from across the country during the summer through workshops and conventions. Calla also was a regular in the Jacksonville Theatre Guild Musicals growing up. While in high school, Calla was a member of the Jacksonville J'ettes for 4 years and captain her senior year. Calla graduated from Jacksonville High School and attended Southeast Missouri State University to major in Dance. She completed her degree in Communications and Business from Illinois College in 2015. Calla founded the Dance Competition Team at Stevens in 2013. Calla is a member of the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters where she is continuing her dance education. Calla is a certified coach through the United States Tumbling Association. Calla has won numerous national championships and choreography awards over the years with her competition team. She is beyond excited to see where this next chapter will take her!

Claire Kaufmann was born and raised in Jacksonville and took classes at her family's dance studio, Stevens School of Dance & Gymnastics, for over 18 years. Claire was an Advanced Athlete in the United States Tumbling Association for over 8 years. She competed in Tumbling, Trampoline and Double-Mini for 14 years. Claire also did competitive cheerleading for 10 years where her team won multiple State Championships. Claire was a cheerleader at Jacksonville High School and enjoyed her time cheering at games and working at kiddie camps. Claire continued her education at Illinois College and was a collegiate athlete on the IC Cheer Squad for 4 years. Claire has two Bachelor degrees in Communication and Business Management. Claire is a certified coach in the United States Tumbling Association and AAU Cheerleading. Claire enjoys getting to know her students and loves seeing the friendships that are formed in the studio!