Our Story
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Founded in 2008, Developing Connections Northeast Ohio, formerly known as Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio (DCNEO), is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses movement (dance) as a vehicle to change the lives of its student participants.
DCNEO has always been, and will continue to be, about developing connections.
In July 2025, the "D" and the "C" in DCNEO evolved to Developing Connections.
WHY? Like the students we serve, the organization has grown and led us to refine how we present our brand to better reflect and serve our greater mission.
Developing Connections reflects what we truly do: help students connect with themselves, their classmates, and the world around them in a manner that is safe, kind, and helpful.
Dancing Classrooms is our premier program.
Meet Our Team
Mary Capellas
Teaching Artist
Betsie Schaeffer
Teaching Artist
Melaina McConnell
Teaching Artist
Lori Simplican
Teaching Artist
Tori McKinney
Teaching Artist
Jen Wade
Teaching Artist
Board Of Directors
Clint Fowler
Fairmount Minerals (Retired)
Board President
Sarah Gabinet
Kohrman Jackson & Krantz
Board Member
Hayley Weiss
Creative Movement Center
Board Member
Stacia Brooks
Signet Jewelers
Board Member
Sean M. Joyce
inSITE Advisory Group
Board Member
Dr. Lee Buddy, Jr.
Clinton Consulting Group
Board Member
Robert J. Vecchio
Vecchio & Vegh
Board Member