MEET THE TEAM
Nicole"Nicki"Tripp
Founder/Owner
With over 18 years of dance training and more than a decade of teaching experience, Nicole is the proud owner and visionary behind The Dugout Dance Company. An award-winning choreographer,Nicole has been recognized as Best Choreographer by Starquest Dance Competition and has led students to top placements in national competitions including Monster’s Hip-Hop, Starquest Dance, Nexstar Dance, Dance Machine, and the Words of Essence Gospel Dance Showcase.
A graduate of North Carolina Central University with a bachelor's degree in education, Nicole seamlessly blends pedagogic methods with the art of dance—creating a learning environment that is structured, nurturing, and impactful. Her classes go beyond choreography, teaching students responsibility, accountability, and life skills that shape them into well-rounded individuals.
Driven by her faith and purpose, Nicole views dance as a God-given gift to inspire and uplift the next generation. She is deeply committed to mentoring youth, fostering sisterhood, and instilling a strong work ethic that carries beyond the studio and into every area of life.
At The Dugout Dance Company, the mission is clear: to empower young dancers through discipline, community, and creativity—preparing them not just for the stage, but for life.
Jasmine Knight
Production Manager/Coach
Jasmine B Knight , a native of Raleigh, NC, began dancing in 7th grade. She obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Physical Education with a concentration in Dance Education at the Illustrious, North Carolina Central University. She is currently teaching in Durham, NC to share her passion and love for dance with whomever wants to learn. Jasmine's natural and most comfortable movement style is sassy, intricate lyrical with a mix of street jazz, hip-hop and ballet.
Chalyn Kimble
Ensemble Coach
Chalyn is a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University. He has trained in majorette and hip-hop dance for over 10 years. His background in early childhood development has contributed to his pedagogic teaching style. He has become a vital piece to the Dugout family.
Kierstyn "Kay" March
Parent Liaison/Executive Assistant
Kierstyn, affectionately known as Coach Kay, began her dance journey at the age of 10. She has background in lyrical, hip-hop and competitive cheer. Kay graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Relations, then shortly after Kay obtained a Master of Science in Human Development and Family Studies in 2017 from the illustrious North Carolina Central University. Today, Kay serves as the administrative assistant as well as one of the assistant coaches. She is thrilled to be able to still utilize both, her early childhood education background as well as her years of dance training to be able to contribute to the continued growth and success of the dancers of NC Dugout.
