Chester Valley Dance Academy (CVDA) is renowned for providing its students with top-tier dance education within the studio and extending opportunities for growth through travel, conventions, competitions, and master classes. A highlight of the CVDA year is the annual Senior Showcase, a special event dedicated to celebrating the graduating class. This showcase not only allows seniors to display their honed talents but also serves as a poignant celebration of their journey and achievements at CVDA. The recent Senior Showcase honored the Class of 2021, a group of truly accomplished individuals. The performances were captivating, and the senior speeches delivered heartfelt messages of reflection and inspiration. We are delighted to share the transcripts of these Senior Speeches, offering our studio community a glimpse into the experiences and cherished memories of our graduating seniors, as they encourage younger dancers to fully embrace their time at Chester Valley Dance Academy.
Senior Speech – Madison Gaffney
“Over the past few weeks, I’ve struggled to find the perfect words to encapsulate my time at Chester Valley, and I’ve come to believe that no words truly suffice. There simply aren’t enough expressions to convey the depth of love, gratitude, memories, and friendships I’ve found here. Chester Valley will forever hold a cherished place in my heart. It feels surreal to have reached this milestone, something I once thought was so distant, and yet here I am at my final performance, marking the end of a beautiful chapter in my life. I am profoundly honored to have been a part of this studio and will carry these memories into my future. While I could recount countless favorite moments, achievements, and experiences from my 15 years at this studio, I want to instead express my sincere thanks to every aspect of this special place that has shaped my life and the person I’ve become. For this, I am eternally grateful.
First, I want to thank my parents. Thank you for putting me in that pink leotard at age three and bringing me to Chester Valley Dance Academy. Had you not, I truly believe I wouldn’t be the person I am today and would have missed out on so many incredible memories and accomplishments. And of course, thank you for driving me around and for those tuition checks – which I know you’ll miss!
Secondly, to my second family, my friends, my people: you have given me an incredible sense of belonging and purpose. Many of you have been with me since the very beginning, and it’s been an honor to call you my best friends. You bring me immense happiness, and each of you holds a special place in my heart. Please know that you’ve all impacted not just me but everyone at the studio in ways you can’t imagine. Thank you, I love you all, and I will treasure our friendships forever.”
“Next, I want to thank Miss Cathy. Thank you for directing this studio, our second home, and for creating an environment that consistently cultivates talented young dancers, fosters lifelong friendships, and ensures everyone feels valued and supported in pursuing their dreams. Your leadership at Chester Valley Dance Academy is truly remarkable.
Lastly, to our very own Mary Poppins, Miss Kim. You’ve been our second mom and the most dedicated and incredible dance instructor anyone could ask for. You truly are our Mary Poppins, always providing everything we need and filling our hearts with endless love and support. We all love you deeply, and you are practically perfect in every way. Your expertise in dance education is invaluable to Chester Valley Dance Academy.
To all the underclassmen and future seniors, especially after this past year and the time we missed, please cherish every single moment you have here. We are so fortunate to share something so special and meaningful in our lives. Soak it all in and enjoy every bit of it because one day, you’ll be standing where I am, wondering where the time went. I want to conclude with a quote, perhaps overused, but one that truly reflects my time and all our time at Chester Valley. Winnie the Pooh said, ‘How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.'”
~ Madison Gaffney, CVDA Class of 2021, James Madison University, Marketing Communications and Dance
