Erin Hartnett

Erin Hartnett has enjoyed dance for nearly her entire life, but her true passion is helping others experience the joy of dance.

Erin Hartnett graduated from Nansemond River High School in 2018 . She is the coordinator of, and a teacher for, Mixed Abilities in Motion ( or “MixMo”) at TR Dance in Norfolk. The program started out as an adaptive dance class for children and adults with Down syndrome. It has expanded to include Movin’ and Groovin’, for those on the autism spectrum, and the Wholly Rollers, a new program for dancers in wheelchairs, with any diagnosis.

“I’ve watched several kids go through it for six years,” Erin said about the programs. “Seeing the development that they’ve had in their relationships with other students — some of them even learning how to talk throughout the six years — they are so excited to be there, and that’s what made it all worth it.”

Erin recently earned her associate degree from Tidewater Community College and is attending Old Dominion University, pursuing a degree in exercise science on a pre-physical therapy track. She also works part-time as a physical therapy technician at Bon Secours InMotion physical therapy.

“I go around to all the different clinics when they need me and make sure everything is clean,” she said. “That has taught me a lot about what my future career is going to look like and seeing the daily life of a physical therapist.”

Erin said she wants to get her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree through ODU .

“In 10 years, I would like to be a physical therapist working in the pediatric side of sports medicine,” she said. “I also want to continue to volunteer with Down Syndrome Association of Hampton Roads or MixMo. I do really enjoy working with these kids and adults that come through.”

— Tracy Agnew

What is your favorite vegetable? Grilled zucchini

What is your favorite fruit? Blueberries