Our Executive
Director
MsJay
Academic Excellence & Passion for Teaching
A Foundation in Education and Mathematics
Kyra "MsJay" Johnson, a native of Freeport, Long Island, discovered her passion for teaching and mathematics early, graduating Summa Cum Laude from Marymount College of Fordham University with dual degrees, followed by an MSed in Mathematics from Iona College of New Rochelle. After six years as a successful educator, she was irresistibly drawn back to her first love—the performing arts, having trained at elite institutions like The Dance Theatre of Harlem and Alvin Ailey. This transition from classroom to stage cemented her legacy as a trailblazer, bridging education and the arts to leave a lasting impact on both fields.
A Life on Stage: Dance & Theater
A Performer from the Start
MsJay’s elite dance training began at just six years old, honing her craft at renowned institutions like The Dance Theatre of Harlem, Alvin Ailey, Joffrey Ballet, and Steps on Broadway, and by age 10, she was invited to study with the Dance Theatre of Harlem Dance Company as a pre-professional. She further expanded her talents into theater at 13, performing in off-Broadway plays such as The American Dream and Meeting in the Ladies Room. MsJay's artistry transcended borders, with a role in the 2009 film Step Up 3D and international tours to Barbados, Jamaica, Canada, and Trinidad, sharing her passion on stages worldwide.
Founding New Beginnings Center for the Performing Arts
Turning Passion into Legacy
In 2009, MsJay founded New Beginnings Center for the Performing Arts, LLC in New Rochelle, NY, merging her passion for dance and teaching to offer transformative experiences for young performers. The center quickly became a community cornerstone, participating in events like Memorial Day Celebrations, Arts and Dance Festivals, and performances for the mayor and other public officials, while also conducting workshops to raise awareness for causes like breast cancer. Under her leadership, the school expanded across New York City, with residencies in New Rochelle, Queens, Yonkers, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan, impacting countless lives through the performing arts.
Mentorship & Community Impact
Empowering Future Generations
MsJay was honored with the Women of Excellence Award by the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce for her contributions to the community. She developed mentorship programs and work-study partnerships with local colleges, providing hands-on experience for aspiring dancers, while her D.I.P. (Dancing in Pumps) workshops in New York and Atlanta empower women to build confidence in their movement. Through her dedication to addressing societal issues like childhood obesity and mentoring future generations, MsJay has cemented her legacy as a transformative figure in the performing arts and her community.
