LaShawn has served in the education field as a teacher for over 20 years, receiving awards such as the Impact Through Education and Teacher of the Year. She accredits her passion for teaching from a long line of teachers in her family, as well as to the art of dance. Her training in tap, ballet, and jazz began at the age and 3, and continued until she was 16 years old. LaShawn discovered her love of teaching when she became an assistant dance instructor at her dance studio as an 11th grader. Before attending North Carolina A&T State University, LaShawn had already gained years of work experience as a dance instructor for the Durham Parks and Recreation Department. She continued to work for Parks and Recreation through her college years. While in college, she became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc and enjoyed serving as assistant step master. LaShawn performed on the step team for two years, as well as shows with the E. Gwynn Dance Company.
After graduating in 1991, LaShawn relocated to Charlotte and immediately found herself as the new dance team coach at West Charlotte High School. Over the next 7 years, she spent time mentoring young girls in the field of dance while hitting the football field for half-time shows, attending numerous dance camps, and winning several championships. For the past 15 years, LaShawn has served as a cheerleading coach for her current and prior middle schools. Her passion for stepping has led her to creating a step team, comprised of middle school students. In 2011, LaShawn’s step team was awarded first place in the Power 98 Step Off Championships.
All of her accomplishments, in the classroom and on the dance floor, have led her to become the director of Fuzion Force Entertainment Academy.