Maria Albaugh has spent more than 25 years teaching, choreographing, directing, and inspiring dancers around the world. Her journey began with formal dance training in Vancouver, Washington, and continued through advanced study and artistic experiences in Las Vegas, New York, Guatemala, and beyond. Over the years, Maria’s teaching has taken her from the Portland area to Las Vegas, Alaska, and Guatemala, where she has shared her passion for dance with students and artists from diverse communities. Maria has served as director of Extreme Dance Company, a student-based company and training program, and as artistic director of Pivot Dance Company. These leadership roles have provided opportunities to perform and create work internationally, including in Spain, Scotland, Alaska, Guatemala, New York, and Las Vegas. She has also choreographed for Ballet Moderno in Guatemala City, further expanding her creative reach and commitment to the art form. For Maria, passion and commitment to the arts are a way of life, strengthened by the love and support of her children, grandchildren, and wonderfully supportive husband. Dance has opened countless opportunities for creativity, connection, and growth, and Maria is dedicated to inspiring artists to recognize their gifts and use them with confidence and purpose. After seven years directing the Multnomah Athletic Club dance company, Maria has retired from that position and now brings her experience, artistry, and passion to her current work teaching for Dance Fusion Northwest and creating independent choreography in the Pacific Northwest area. Above all, Maria hopes her work encourages artists and students alike to live with purpose, courage, generosity, and a deep belief in their own potential. Her guiding inspiration is captured in this simple quote: “At the end of my days, I hope to have not a single bit of talent left. Then I can say, ‘I used everything you gave me.’”