Owner/Director

With over 18 years of dance experience, Cortney Hickman brings a passion for dance, mentorship, and community to every class she teaches. Born and raised in the Morris Area, Cortney grew up training and competing all around the midwest, earning numerous titles and national accolades. She trained in a wide range of styles, building a strong foundation for her future in the dance world. But it wasn’t the stage alone that sparked her passion—it was the studio. At just 15 years old, Cortney began teaching and quickly realized that her greatest joy came from inspiring and guiding the next generation of dancers.

Cortney’s extensive training spans multiple styles and includes teaching master classes across the Midwest. She has spent the last six years working with Dance Xtreme Events at their Conventions and Competitions as an assistant, emcee, and backstage coordinator—an opportunity that’s allowed her to build strong connections with renowned educators and choreographers from around the world. In 2024, she had the privilege of assisting classes at the prestigious Alvin Ailey Dance Theater and Broadway Dance Center in New York City. Most recently, she choreographed the senior performance at the 2025 DX AmeriCup Dance Competition and is slated to assist on the DX Disney World Tour this fall.

Cortney is a proud graduate of the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Dance with an emphasis in business management and education. While in the program, she trained under renowned faculty in contemporary, ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, while also deepening her understanding of dancer anatomy, nutrition, choreography, and the history of dance. Her choreographic work was featured in multiple departmental showcases throughout her college career. Outside the classroom, Cortney was an active member of the University Dance Collective and continued expanding her training at local studios including Keane Sense of Rhythm and Klass Dance Studio.

Cortney’s teaching experience includes guest choreography, master classes, and several years on faculty at studios throughout the Twin Cities metro area. Most recently, she taught at Platinum Dance Center in Edina, where she worked with both recreational and competitive dancers of all ages. Her tap instruction and choreography were especially recognized, earning multiple awards at regional competitions.

Now back in the Morris area, Cortney is thrilled to bring her experience, energy, and love for dance home. As the Owner and Director of Choose Joy Dance Center, her mission is simple: to create a space where dancers feel seen, supported, and inspired. She hopes every dancer and family who walks through the studio doors leaves with a joyful heart—and a little extra sparkle in their step.