Dance Faculty

Lora Ruttan began her dance training with the Laurel Ballet in Greensburg, PA, and went on to dance professionally with the Charleston Ballet Company in Charleston, WV. Ms. Ruttan graduated magna cum laude from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College (R-MWC) with a B.A. in dance. She student-taught at R–MWC while receiving her K–12 dance education licensure. Ms. Ruttan received an MA in dance from American University, where she also served as an adjunct faculty member and artistin-residence. Ms. Ruttan has studied at Point Park’s Conservatory of Performing Arts, the North Carolina School of the Arts, and the Laban Dance Centre in London, England. She is happy to be teaching at YPAS

Kimberly Mansilla has been teaching modern dance and choreography at YPAS Dance since 2005. Mrs. Mansilla received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Dance Education & Choreography from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. While in North Carolina, Mrs. Mansilla performed regionally with the John Gamble Dance Theatre. She has trained at the American Dance Festival and was an Educator Scholarship recipient at the Bates Dance Festival.  She has also presented her choreography by invitation at the White Mountain Dance Festival and the National High School Dance Festival. Mrs.Mansilla is a National Board Certified Teacher and Competency Based Education certified. Mrs. Mansilla is also a mom and loves to garden & declutter. 

David Cesler is a native of Louisville and a Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) graduate. Mr. Cesler has more than 30 years of professional performing experience. His career spans over ballet companies, Las Vegas production shows, and a cruise ship specialty act. He was also a finalist at the World Ballroom Championships in Blackpool, England. Mr. Cesler received his B.A. from Western Kentucky University and earned his M.F.A. from Hollins University. He enjoys sharing his experiences with students in the hope of inspiring our next generation of young dance artists.