The SHINE Scholarship honors Becky Cota’s lifelong love of dance and teaching by being awarded to one dancer who embodies the same heart, passion, and determination that she brings to everything she does.

Becky’s dance journey began at age 23. She never imagined that starting dance later in life would lead to a professional career, but with the encouragement of her teacher, Pat Jackson, everything changed. Pat had a love for all of her students and believed in their potential. Her words stayed with Becky always—reminding her that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. With that belief, Becky took the leap and pursued her dreams, discovering a world she never thought possible.

Through performing, Becky realized her true calling was in teaching. Sharing her passion with others and watching her students SHINE on stage brought her even greater fulfillment than being on stage herself. Teaching became her purpose in life—a purpose that grew even deeper as she began teaching her daughter, Aaliyah, and watched her follow her own dreams.

A+W dedicates this scholarship to Becky Cota because of her unwavering love for dance and her ability to inspire everyone around her. If you’re lucky enough to meet Becky, you instantly understand who she is—she wears her heart on her sleeve and exemplifies every value we hope our dancers carry: passion, integrity, selflessness, and dedication.

For over 39 years, Becky has inspired generations of dancers to find their light and SHINE. To her, dance has always been about more than steps—it’s about community, growth, and being part of something bigger than yourself. She has always strived to create a space where every dancer feels seen, valued, and supported, regardless of their circumstances.

To Becky, “SHINE” means being a part of something greater than yourself. It’s not about one star—it’s about the collective energy, effort, and heart that make the whole space glow. The dancer chosen for this scholarship is someone who contributes their own special light, inspires others to find theirs, and together with those around them creates something truly bright.

The SHINE Scholarship is not about being the best dancer in the room—it’s about having heart. Becky believes that heart will always beat talent, and with the right guidance, work ethic, and training, a dancer with heart can reach their full potential.

The SHINE Scholarship is awarded to one dancer who embodies this spirit—someone with a strong work ethic, a “go for it” attitude, and a deep passion for dance. This dancer uplifts others, gives their all, and inspires those around them to do the same.

In Becky’s honor, the SHINE Scholarship provides free classes for the full dance season to one dancer chosen by the A+W team—someone who truly embodies what it means to SHINE.