Bringing the Dream Home

Pittsburgh-born and New York-trained, Athletic Arts Center owner Maria Ross Campsey is teaching the arts to all ages, all throughout the community.

Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Al Blanton

Maria Ross Campsey’s life has been full of exciting opportunities. Dancing across the United States, Maria has learned what it takes to be a great dancer and performer. Now, through her studio, Athletic Arts Center, Maria’s goal is to bring these opportunities to people in the Jasper community.

Growing up near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Maria began dancing at a young age. Her parents worked in the mining and reclamation field, and when their work caused the family to move, 15-year-old Maria was faced with a challenge.

“Having my life uprooted felt like the end of the world at the time,” recalls Maria. “I had grown up dancing with the same people my whole life, and I was determined to keep dancing even after I moved.”

After relocating to Jasper, Maria attended Walker High School and began dancing with Marilyn Sanders and Margaret Hudson. She got the chance to perform on stages all around the country, in places like Chicago, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and New York.

“Those opportunities definitely helped shape who I am, because being able to meet people in the dance community at such a young age gave me a wider perspective of the world,” says Maria.

After high school, Maria went on to Birmingham-Southern College to continue her education. After two years, she transferred and completed her undergraduate degree at The University of Alabama. She earned a master’s degree in Dance Education at The University of Northern Colorado and MFA at Wilson College. Maria was excited about what the future held, and soon, opportunities came up in New York. She was able to room with a friend and begin her life in the city.

“I just thrived on the fast-paced energy of the city,” says Maria. “I found a great, close-knit community, and connected with other people in the arts.”

While in New York, Maria worked at Chelsea Piers as a gymnastics and dance instructor. She also interned at the American Ballet Theatre and served as the director of Children’s Physical Education and Gymnastics at the 92nd Street YMCA.

After five years in New York and the birth of her son, Maria decided it was time to move back to Jasper and pursue her dream of owning a studio.

In 2007, the Athletic Arts Center was born. Today, Maria and her instructors offer multiple dance and tumbling classes, as well as musical theatre and voice lessons. She also holds auditions for the Nutcracker ballet each Christmas, and a different musical each spring.

“I always knew I wanted to open a studio. I’m so proud of how far it has come, and I’m excited to provide opportunities for boys and girls of all ages and skill levels,” Maria says.

Through the Athletic Arts Center, Maria Ross fulfills her dream of teaching and bringing the arts to Jasper. At her studio, there is something for boys and girls of all ages, and Maria is determined to show Jasper that the arts are for everyone. 78

For more information on the programs offered at Athletic Arts Center, please contact (205) 387-9337.