
KIRSTEN JANSEN

Director
Miss Kirsten began her dance journey at the New Jersey Center of Dance in 1989, where she trained extensively under the direction of Miss Linda Kay Griggs. As a longtime member of the NJCOD resident company, the Special Kays, she performed at prestigious venues including the PNC Bank Arts Center and Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. In addition to her strong foundation in competitive dance, Miss Kirsten was actively involved in musical theatre. She was a featured performer in BREAK THE FLOOR, directed by Gil Stroming at the Kays Theatre, as well as Broadway Dance Center’s PERFORMANCE OUTLET in New York City. She began teaching at just 14 years old, and although performing brought her great joy, her true passion has always been teaching and inspiring young dancers.
Miss Kirsten is a certified and accredited member of Dance Educators of America. Over the years, she has received numerous accolades for Outstanding Choreography and Highest Score at both regional and national dance competitions.
In 2020, following Miss Linda’s decision to step into a new chapter and relocate to Florida, Miss Kirsten was honored to take on the role of Director of NJCOD—a dream come true. She now oversees day-to-day studio operations, teaches evening classes, and choreographs for the NJCOD Dance Company.
Outside of the studio, Miss Kirsten is married to her husband, Casey and is a proud mother to three sons—Chase, Jake, and Luke. Together, they are also the owners and operators of Holland Ridge Farms in Cream Ridge, NJ. Whether on the farm or in the studio, Miss Kirsten brings her passion, dedication, and love of dance to everything she does. Her greatest joy remains watching her students grow into confident, accomplished individuals and beautiful dancers.