Meet the Motivated Team Behind Dominique Dawes Academy in Columbia, MD

If you've ever stepped foot into Dominique Dawes Academy in Columbia, you’ve probably felt it, that buzz of energy, the sounds of little feet running toward the foam pit, the upbeat music, the high-fives, and encouragement floating through the air. There’s something different about this place, and as a local mom and part of this community, I can tell you, it starts with the people.

I wanted to pull back the curtain a bit and introduce you to three of the incredible humans who make the Columbia location such a special place for our kids to grow, move, and thrive. Whether you're considering a class, eyeing an open gym, or scouting the perfect birthday party spot, I hope this little peek behind the scenes helps you feel like part of the Dominique Dawes Academy family too.

Meet Erin – Member Experience Specialist

If you’ve visited the Columbia location since last September, chances are you’ve been greeted with Erin’s kind smile and positive energy. Erin’s background as a lifelong athlete gives her a deep appreciation for the role youth sports play in shaping confidence and character. What drew her to Dominique Dawes Academy? “Dominique’s mission,” she told me. “Developing healthy, active, and strong children is important, and it’s a privilege to be part of that journey.”

When I asked her to describe the vibe at Dominique Dawes Academy to a parent who’s never been, she painted such a beautiful picture: “It’s a welcoming space filled with infectious energy and good music, where safety is our top priority. We encourage curiosity and confidence while helping each child explore their unique talents.”

Erin deeply understands the value of movement, discipline, and progress, not just in gymnastics, but in life. She lights up when she talks about the small wins: a cartwheel nailed for the first time, a shy child gaining confidence week by week. You get the sense that for Erin, this job is part mission, part joy, and completely personal.

Meet Ben – General Manager

Ben is the steady heartbeat of the Columbia location. As General Manager, he's been a guiding force behind the scenes and out on the floor for just over a year. His passion for mentorship started early, he coached football camps and volunteered through high school and college. “Helping shape kids and watching their confidence grow each week, it’s been life-changing.”

What I love most about Ben’s approach is how family-centered he is. “We’re building a family here at Dominique Dawes Academy,” he said. “This is a safe space for kids to be themselves, challenge themselves, and grow with the help of coaches who care.” He’s not just saying that either, Ben’s own son, Silas, recently joined the Seedling class for three-year-olds. Watching Silas complete a class independently? “Truly incredible.”

He doesn’t just talk about creating a safe, welcoming space, he lives it, and it shows in everything from the way the staff is trained to the way birthday parties are run. There’s a sense of intentionality behind it all.

Meet Jermika – Program Manager

Jermika is a powerhouse, and one of the most seasoned members of the team, coming from the Clarksburg location, and seamlessly jumping into her role. She brings a calm confidence and a deep well of experience as an athlete herself: gymnastics, cheerleading, collegiate track, and now hiking, just for fun. But what makes her such a strong presence at Dominique Dawes Academy isn’t just her athletic background, it’s her “why.”

From gymnast to collegiate track athlete to avid hiker, fitness has always been part of Jermika’s DNA. But it was a moment with her niece that lit the spark for youth coaching. “She couldn’t join a sport because there weren’t enough coaches,” Jermika said. “That’s when I knew I had to be part of this world, to give back.”

Her favorite moments? They’re not always the big wins, they’re the quiet ones. The moments when a child realizes they can do the thing they thought they couldn’t. That shift from frustration to belief. It’s powerful. And it’s clear that for Jermika, coaching is about so much more than gymnastics, it’s about helping kids build resilience, self-worth, and strength from the inside out.

Ready to See the Magic in Action at Dominique Dawes Academy in Columbia, MD?

If you're searching for top-rated gymnastics classes in Columbia, MD, a supportive ninja training program, or simply a safe, high-energy space for your kids to grow, Dominique Dawes Academy in Columbia truly stands out, and now you know why. It’s not just the equipment or the curriculum. It’s the people. The heart behind the programs. The coaches who cheer, challenge, and champion every kid who walks through the doors.

Whether you're curious about a drop-in open gym, exploring options for a birthday party your child will never forget, or ready to register for gymnastics or ninja classes, there's no better time to check out Dominique Dawes Academy Columbia. Come meet the team, feel the energy, and see for yourself why this gym is quickly becoming one of the most loved kids’ activity centers in Howard County.

👉 Explore classes, open gym times, and party options here, and tell them The Columbia Mom sent you!