Jessica Jimenez: Co-Owner, Business Operations

Born and raised in San Jose, Jessica Jimenez’s love for dance began in elementary school at The Joy of Dancing. Inspired by her older sister, she dreamed of following in her footsteps. In middle school, she transferred to Capitol Dance Company, where a pivotal moment in the 6th grade changed everything: her hip hop teacher gave her the chance to choreograph four eight-counts for the annual recital. From that moment on, Jessica knew she wanted to one day own a dance studio to teach dance and give others the opportunity to tap into their creative side.

By the time she entered Independence High School, dance had become life. Initially invited to a Marching Band meeting because she played the clarinet, Jessica noticed a sign that read “IHS Marching Band & Color Guard” and asked her mother what Color Guard was. Her mom’s reply—“The dancing girls with flags in parades”—sparked an instant connection. Jessica went on to dance with the IHS Color Guard and Winter Guard for four years, often rehearsing daily until 10 p.m., and was named Sabre Captain by her sophomore year.

Simultaneously, she auditioned for Independence High’s dance company, IndepenDANCE (or "iDance"), and earned the distinction of being the only sophomore accepted that year—making her the youngest and only three-year member in her graduating class. As a senior, she served as one of three Student Directors. Throughout high school, Jessica earned numerous accolades in dance and Color Guard, including “Rookie of the Year,” the “Lyceum Award for Best Choreography,” the “Bank of America Rising Star Award,” and the “Excellence in Performing Arts” award, among others.

After graduation, Jessica continued dancing in college and briefly performed with San Jose’s hip hop group Soul Conspiracy alongside her brother. Ultimately, she chose to pursue a career in business, earning a degree and building a successful career in Human Resources and Operations, where she’s spent over a decade thriving in compliance and business efficiency.

Outside of her professional life, Jessica is a proud mom of two sons and two daughters—both of whom have danced under the guidance of Nicole for more than seven years. Nicole has not only been a talented teacher and dancer but also a meaningful mentor to her children.

Now, Jessica is thrilled to be opening her own dance studio with Nicole. What was once a childhood dream is now becoming a reality—one built on years of passion, hard work, and the joy of sharing dance with the next generation. She couldn’t be more excited to begin this new chapter alongside someone so inspiring and dear to her heart.