CPAC is the most special place. It has given me memories that will last a lifetime, lessons I will carry forever, and my best friends who mean the world to me. I can’t think of a time in my life when CPAC wasn’t a part of who I am. To think that at this time next year I won’t be spending every night here feels unreal and bittersweet. I am beyond grateful to call this incredible place my home and the people in it my family. I remember being three years old, walking into Ms. Candace’s class, so excited to step on stage in my pretty costume, show everyone my moves and do it with the biggest smile on my face. All these years later, as a senior, that same excitement and joy still fill my heart every time I perform; a feeling I know I will carry with me forever.  Kristen, you have impacted my dancing in more ways than you will ever know. Not only have you helped strengthen my technique, but you’ve also allowed me to grow and mature as a dancer, reminding me that it doesn’t always have to be so serious. Your patience and belief in me has shaped the dancer I am today, and I will always be grateful for everything you have taught me. Jordan, you are so talented. Your vision is unlike any other. Thank you for challenging me with new styles and difficult dances that I’m not comfortable with. You encourage me to go beyond my limits, and because of you, I’ve grown not just as a dancer, but as a person. I’m so grateful for the inspiration and guidance you give every day. Tessa, thank you for being with me through it all. From choreographing my dances on Troupe to helping me get back to dancing after surgery, you have always been there supporting and believing in me. I always feel like I can come to you with any problem and you’d know exactly what to do. You are an incredible role model, and I am so grateful for the faith you have in me and for pushing me to reach my fullest potential. Jen Lee, I can’t put into words how much you’ve done for me. My life would not be the same without you. You believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself, and that is something I will forever be grateful for. Thank you for being the comfort, the joy, and the constant light that everyone needs. Your guidance, kindness, and unwavering support have shaped me into the person I am today, and I will carry everything you’ve taught me with me forever. CPAC simply wouldn’t be what it is without you. Costume Shop, your vision, talent, and creativity is out of this world, thank you all for making our dances come to life. Christy, Zack, and Katie thank you for continuing my love for dancing, always pushing me and keeping my passion strong. Nancy, I’m so grateful to have grown up in such a beautiful studio. The opportunities you’ve given us are endless, and thank you for letting us live out our passion every day. To my teammates, it truly is the people who make the place. Thank you for inspiring me and pushing me to be better every single day. Thank you for the laughs, the long weekend rehearsals, the late nights running around hotels, and every moment in between. You made even the hardest days joyful and fun. One of the most special things about CPAC is that we weren’t just teammates who danced together and only saw each other at the studio. These are the people I chose to spend my time with, my best friends. That is something truly rare, and something I will always be grateful for. I love you guys endlessly.  Lastly, Mom and Dad, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for being my biggest fans and for standing by me through every high and low. Thank you for the countless hours spent driving and the flights taken across the country, all so I could do what I love and live my dream. Your sacrifices, love, and constant support mean more to me than I could ever put into words. You are truly the best parents I could ever ask for, and I love you both so much. CHAKA OUT!