Cory Hammond is a 15-year-old dancer from Newark, Ohio. He dances at Patty’s Dance Center.

 “I want to always do well for my teachers and be a positive role model for younger dancers, especially the male dancers.”

How does dance have a positive impact on your life?

Dance keeps me focused on my goals. It provides a structure that allows me to keep up on my education and stay organized and focused. I want to always do well for my teachers and be a positive role model for younger dancers, especially the male dancers.

How do you want to use dance to be a positive influence on your community?

I want to be a positive role model for younger male dancers. As a demonstrator, I get to assist teachers at my studio with the younger dancers. I hope they see how exciting dancing can be and don’t let the negative stereotypes people give male dancers affect their love of dance.