ABOUT US
The Inaugural Class June 10, 2026 - JCAL, Jamaica Queens
The Steppers Society of New York exists to Preserve, Promote, and Grow the culture of Chicago Steppin' through education, community, and social dance.
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We provide structured learning, curated events, and tailored experiences encouraging individuals to feel welcomed in the community while honoring its history, traditions, and legacy.
MEET THE TEAM
Sharii Brown
Founder | The Steppers Society of NY
For Sharii, dance has always been more than movement—it has been a ministry, a community, and something that feels as natural as breathing.
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Long before discovering Chicago Steppin', Sharii spent years teaching Praise Dance to children, youth, and adults through her church. Eventually founding the NOW Praise Dance Academy, helping others to further and deepen their faith via expression through dance.
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Her Chicago Steppin' journey began in October 2023, when she discovered a workshop on Youtube led by Shaun Ballentine. Having learned the foundational 8 Count, she practiced daily. Inspired to continue learning, she began formal Chicago Style Steppin' instruction taking classes in Brooklyn, New York, in April 2024.
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In September 2025, Sharii competed in the World's Largest Steppers Competition (WLSC) Beginners Category, further strengthening her commitment to mastering the art form.
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Believing New York deserved a place where dancers gather monthly, she launched SOO Fab 1st Saturdays in January 2026, New York's Monthly Steppers Day Set.
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Her vision continued to expand with the founding of The Steppers Society of NY. In June 2026, the Society's inaugural Beginners Workshop was launched at the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning (JCAL). Just two months later, the program expanded to a second location at the John J. Byrne Community Center in Uniondale. Bringing structured Chicago Steppin' instruction to even more dancers across Long Island.
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Today, Sharii's mission extends beyond teaching dance steps. Through every workshop, social event, and community partnership, she is committed to preserving the traditions of Chicago Steppin' while creating opportunities for the culture to flourish in New York.
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She believes the greatest success isn't measured by how many patterns someone knows, but by building confident dancers, lifelong friendships, and a community where everyone feels welcome.
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Preserve. Promote. Grow.
Affectionately known throughout the Steppin' community as "Moni-Moni" or "New York Everywhere," Monica brings warmth, organization, and a genuine love for people to The Steppers Society of New York.
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Monica began her Chicago Style Steppin' journey in October 2023 and quickly embraced not only the dance, but also the incredible community that surrounds it. Her passion for the culture has taken her across the country as she pursues an ambitious personal goal—to Step in all 50 states. To date, she has already danced in 18 states, building friendships and representing New York wherever she goes.
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As Planning & Hospitality Director, Monica helps create the welcoming atmosphere that defines The Steppers Society of New York. From coordinating guest experiences to assisting with event planning and ensuring every participant feels at home, she believes hospitality is just as important as the dance itself.
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Whether she's greeting first-time dancers, supporting instructors, or traveling to the next Steppin' event, Monica is committed to helping Preserve, Promote and Grow the culture—and like the song says, "I Won't Back Down."
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