Lacey Larkin Named Head Coach of Graceland University Dance Team

LAMONI, Iowa — Graceland University is proud to announce the hiring of Lacey Larkin as the new Head Coach of the Graceland Dance Team. With a distinguished background in collegiate and professional dance, Larkin brings energy, creativity, and leadership to a program poised for growth and continued success.

Larkin most recently performed professionally with the Kansas City Comets as a cheerleader during the 2023–24 season, representing the team both on the field and in the community. She also served as a judge and tabulator for Starpower Talent, providing professional feedback and scoring at competitions across the United States and internationally, including an event in Scotland.

Raised in New Jersey, Larkin began dancing at a young age under the direction of her mother, Kelley Larkin, owner of several dance studios. Her early training developed into a lifelong passion for the sport, which she has since shared through over a decade of instruction at Studio L Dance Co, where she taught dancers ages 3 to 18 and managed the studio's social media content.

Her collegiate coaching experience includes working with the Marist College Dance Team, where she choreographed select game day routines and helped lead the team to compete at NDA Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida.

"I am absolutely honored to be the new Head Dance Team Coach of the Graceland University Dance Team," said Larkin. "I'm excited to bring my creativity and energy to Lamoni and cannot wait to get to work!"

Larkin earned her Bachelor's degree in Law and Society from Ramapo College, where she was a member of the competitive Ramapo College Dance Team.

"We're excited to welcome Lacey to the Graceland athletics family," said Athletic Director Brady McKillip. "She's a dynamic leader with high-level experience and a genuine passion for student development. We know she'll do a fantastic job growing our dance program and creating meaningful experiences for our student-athletes."

Outside of coaching, Larkin enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants, and spending time with her husband and their 3-year-old daughter, Penelope.

With her enthusiasm and experience, Lacey Larkin is set to lead the Graceland Dance Team into an exciting new era.