Staff

Managing Director

Josh directs the Collective, where he co-leads the organization’s growth, programming, and long-term vision. Though relatively new to competitive Country Swing and West Coast Swing, Josh brings more than a decade of dance experience and a deep love for the floor to every class, workshop, and social.
A Marine Corps combat veteran who served multiple tours overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve, Josh faced PTSD and struggles with alcohol after returning home. Through dance and faith, he found a path toward healing and restoration.
That journey ultimately inspired him to start local dance organizations, using dance as a tool to build community and create spaces for connection, recovery, and belonging especially for veterans and others seeking encouragement and support.
Josh is committed to strengthening the local dance community by creating welcoming environments where people can find joy, purpose, and friendship. He teaches classes, organizes events, and partners with local veteran groups to make dance accessible — one step, one night, one community at a time.

Brenda has lived in Bend for the past seven years and recently discovered a love for swing dancing, something she only wishes she had found sooner, as it has already brought so much fun and energy into her life. She is naturally outgoing and is almost always laughing or smiling, even while stepping into something new.

Brenda thrives on exploring hobbies that get her adrenaline going, meeting new people, and diving headfirst into fresh experiences. Outside of swing dancing, she enjoys keeping life exciting whether that means chasing a new adventure, uncovering hidden gems around town, or simply laughing until her cheeks hurt.

She is eager to continue learning and growing, and she loves connecting with people who are passionate, playful, and ready to have a little fun along the way.

Grace has been dancing for as long as she can remember, but in 2023 she stepped into the world of modern country swing and was instantly hooked. Since then, she’s enjoyed traveling to conventions and competitions around the country, meeting new friends and fostering Jesus-centered relationships within the dance community.
Grace hopes her dancing reflects the love of our Lord and brings light to everyone she meets. Outside of dance, Grace is passionate about entrepreneurship. Her brand: Trinity by Grace, is dedicated to creating beauty and sharing the gospel through poetry, luxury picnics, and more. She also enjoys playing sports, learning music, studying holistic health, and surfing whenever possible.

Jyss grew up dancing, never imagining it would become such a defining part of her life. What began as a fun way to move to music evolved into a lifelong passion for Modern Country Swing—a passion that goes far beyond perfecting steps. For her, dance is a way to challenge herself, discover who she is, and build meaningful connections with others.
She is proud to dance with High Desert Swing, a group that continually inspires her with its energy, creativity, and strong sense of community. Every time she steps onto the floor, she experiences the magic of connection—the laughter, the shared moments, and the joy of moving together.
As a teacher, her goal is simple: to create a space where everyone feels welcome, supported, and ready to have fun. She brings positivity, humor, and genuine happiness to each class, believing that the best dancing happens when people feel free to be themselves.
Through her teaching, she hopes to strengthen the dance community one smile, one swing, and one connection at a time. Whether someone is brand new to dancing or already experienced, she believes there is a place for them, and she looks forward to dancing with everyone.

Amelia has been country dancing for four years and has spent the past two years instructing. She learned most of what she knows at Colorado State University’s Ram Country Dance Club—Go Rams!
Dancing is a skill that has not only brought her joy but has also expanded her community. Her goal is to provide that same experience for others.
While she enjoys all kinds of dance, country swing is her main discipline. Her favorite line dances include Fuss and Fight, Honky Tonk Hardwood Floors, and Sounds Like Something I’d Do.

Seth Hoog started dancing about a year ago and quickly fell in love with the creativity, connection, and fun that partner dancing brings. Since then he has competed and won two dance competitions, which has pushed him to keep growing and sharing what he has learned.