Mary Lou was referred to Living Traditions Dance, which later became NW Dance Network, by her daughter who was attending dance classes she thought Mary Lou would enjoy. In 1999, after an initial practice session at Sonny Newman’s Dance Hall, Mary Lou began consistently enrolling in classes being held at the Swedish Club, which she consumed with vigor. She always took two classes a night and at one point was enrolled in eight classes a week! It was an amazing opportunity that provided so much that she enjoyed: social interactions, learning/challenge, and exercise in an uplifting atmosphere. After several years, she wanted to broaden her skills and learned to lead. She believes there is so much to learn through changing roles.

Walter Dill invited Mary Lou to join the transitional Board when Living Traditions Dance morphed into NW Dance Network. He told others invited that Mary Lou was “intelligent, articulate and dedicated.” Mary Lou served for nine years on the Condo Association Board where she lives and is currently on the Advisory Board at the Peter Kirk Community Center in Kirkland.

Mary Lou has taken classes from many dance teachers and has participated in a wide variety of dances, workshops, and other dance events. However, NW Dance Network has always felt like her “home base,” and she wants the organization to thrive!