CEO/ FOUNDER
Loniece Edwards
“My name is Loniece Edwards, and I am the Founder and Director of Exquisite Academy of Arts. As a woman of diverse cultural backgrounds, I embrace my heritage and allow it to shape my leadership. The arts, in every form, have always been my passion. Throughout my childhood and into adulthood, I have danced, sung, modeled, and performed. I lead with love, compassion, accountability, and trust. I firmly believe that our words have power and that we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Our actions should always align with what we speak. I want every dancer to know that, regardless of your weight or size, you should never let anything stop you from stepping onto the dance floor. One thing is certain: once Exquisite, always Exquisite. We are more than just a dance studio—we are family. When you leave Exquisite, you will feel more confident, loved, empowered, and capable.”
CEO/ FOUNDER
Arleth Ruiz Clark
“I’m Arleth Ruiz Clark, Head Coach and Assistant Director of Exquisite Force, and I truly love what I do. Being a coach is more than just teaching routines; I love watching my dancers grow, gain confidence, and come out of their shells. I’m proudly Garifuna, and I carry my love for culture, family, and community into everything I do. As Head Coach, I can be tough, and I’ll always push my dancers, but it’s because I see their potential and want them to see it too. I’ve built such a special bond with my dancers, and being someone they can trust, laugh with, learn from, and look up to means so much to me. At the end of the day, I want every dancer who comes through Exquisite Force to leave knowing they are capable, confident, and loved.”
Meet the Coaches
Byanca Avila
“My name is Byanca Avila, and I am 21 years old with over 13 years of dance experience. I began dancing at the age of eight when I joined the high school after-school dance program, which was led by my aunt, Loniece Edwards. Later, at the same high school, Gorton High School in Yonkers, New York, I became the first-ever captain of the official dance team and proudly held that position for all four years while also playing basketball. I’m known for my high energy on the Dance floor, expressive facials, versatility across dance styles, confidence, and big-hearted personality off the dance floor. I currently attend Lehman College, where I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Dance, and I continue to participate in various dance programs and performances. Dance has always been a major part of my life, and I am incredibly grateful to my aunt(Loniece Edwards), Arleth Ruiz Clark, and my older sister ( Chasity Avila) for inspiring me to carry on their legacy and pursue my dream of creating my dance team someday.”
Mya “Moonshine” Major
“Hey everyone! My name is Mya, aka Coach Moon! I’ve been with Exquisite Force since my sophomore year in high school in 2021! I am currently obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in social work at The College of Westchester by May 2027!. Believe it or not, I was one of those people who had two left feet, and look at me now! My advice for the people out there wanting to get into dance would be, “ Don’t let the experience discourage you !“ I am beyond grateful to be a part of this team, not only for the opportunities given but for the love and family that comes with it ! I hope the newer generation falls in love with this team as much as I did !”
Armani Chavis
“Hi, my name is Armani-Rae Chavis, also known as Coach Maní. I am the wardrobe coach of Exquisite Force. I enjoy customizing and ensuring that our exquisite dancers look good. Not only do I customize, but I also help clean up the girls while preparing for a show. I enjoy dancing as well, and it’s truly a pleasure seeing the dancers evolve into their own personalities. Coming from a dancing background myself, dancing has always been an outlet for me where I’m able to express myself and have fun. Seeing our dancers enjoy and come out of their dancing shells is our goal and makes our work memorable. As being one of the coaches my goal is to make sure each dancer is heard and is appreciated, and welcomed, and look there best on the stage. Coach Mani can be fun and playful, but when a show is approaching, I let it be known what’s expected of them as dancers. Cleaning their moves up and making sure they understand the importance of making sure each move is executed properly. Speaking life into them and letting them know that their confidence and dedication, and discipline are what make them the best dancer.”
