One of the newest student organizations on the University of the Ozarks campus is making all the right moves.
The Yelé Dance Club was officially founded in September of 2021 as an organization where students could express their passion for dance, explore freedom of movement, and engage in physical and mental exercise. The club was established by alumna Naila Pierre, who served as the first president, along with a small group of executive members.
“Together, they cultivated a community united by a love for dance, which continues to grow today,” said current Yelé Dance Club President Cristhel Mejía, a junior political science, philosophy and sociology major from Nicaragua.
The club currently has approximately 50 members. Joining Mejía on the executive team are Vice President Daniella Ugarte, a sophomore management major from Costa Rica; Secretary Azul Camino, a freshman marketing major from Mexico; Treasurer Jacquelinne Teshe, a sophomore psychology and finance major from El Salvador; and Social Media Manager Maria Cabrera, a sophomore marketing and finance major from Mexico.
Yelé is a term from the Niger-Congo language Yoruba that translates to “One who benefits the family.” The student-led organization is dedicated to sharing diverse dance styles and creating an inclusive space for all, regardless of experience.
The club, whose advisor is Director of Counseling Services Dr. Kaethe Hoehling, offers student-led classes in a variety of styles, including Pop, Bachata, Modern Dance, Reggaeton, Hip-Hop, and Salsa.
In recent months, the club has performed at halftime of basketball games at U of O as well as Clarksville High School. They will also be the closing act at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7, at the International Fest on campus.
“Having the opportunity to perform during halftime at the high school basketball game was an incredible experience,” Cabrera said. “It allowed our club to gain valuable exposure in sports performances while reinforcing our dedication and perseverance in everything we do. I am truly grateful for our amazing team of officers who continuously seek new opportunities and are not afraid to step into the unknown. Overall, I believe Yelé is more than just a club—it’s a place where you create unforgettable experiences, challenge yourself to grow, and work hard for what you want.”
Mejía said the club will continue to look for opportunities to perform in front of audiences.
“Looking ahead, we plan to continue performing at athletic events and expanding our collaborations with various clubs and organizations to bring the joy of dance to students, faculty, and staff alike,” Mejía said. “Organizing events, creating choreographies, and teaching different dance styles are just a few of the ways we connect with our campus and, now, with the Clarksville community. When we first heard about the opportunity to perform at the local high school, we couldn’t have been more excited. My team and I put in the work to make it happen, and we look forward to more performances at various institutions in the future. Being able to share dance as a form of artistic expression is one of the greatest blessings in my life. It fuels my heart, and I hope we can continue bringing joy and passion to others through movement.”
Teshe said, “Being a part of the Yelé Dance Club has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It is an opportunity to be part of a great community and it has become my way of escaping and expressing myself freely.”
For those students who wish to join the Yelé Dance Club, they can contact members through Instagram @yele.dance or email Mejía at cmeja152@ozarks.edu.
“We are always welcoming new members, regardless of experience or background,” Mejía said. “No prior dance knowledge or performance participation is required. If you’re interested, feel free to attend our weekly classes or simply join the community.”
Topics: Campus Life