Heartland SwingOut Instructors
Meet the talented instructors of Heartland SwingOut! With years of experience in swing dancing and teaching, our instructors are here to help you improve your skills, have fun, and make the most of your weekend. Get to know the experts guiding you through the event!
Vince Valeriano
he/him
Vince failed at every sport imaginable until discovering Lindy Hop in 2016, then he was hooked. He taught in his college scene (Ames, IA) before moving to Minneapolis, MN, in 2023. These days, Vince trains and competes in both roles because he loves dancing with everyone. On the dance floor, Vince values connection, musicality, and a little bit of attitude, and is always excited to share his love of Lindy Hop with his students.
Nicole Bramow
(she/they)
Nicole began her dance journey in fall 2013 at Iowa State University (ISU) with their ballroom dance club, adding swing dance in spring 2014. She quickly progressed to teaching both ballroom and swing classes after her first year at ISU, and later competed and performed with the ballroom club’s adult group. Post-college, she continued teaching ballroom and joined Des Moines Ballroom’s performance team, later contributing to Step Into Swing’s swing dance performances. Following Step Into Swing’s closure in 2022, Nicole co-founded Heartland Swing and now serves as its President and a head instructor, dedicated to expanding lessons and establishing a performance group as the organization grows.
Raven Wells
(she/her)
Raven Wells was introduced to Lindy Hop in 2013 and instantly fell in love. She loves all things Lindy, Solo Jazz, Blues and various other styles of dance. Her goal is to always bring passion, creativity and musicality to her dancing and wants to encourage all dancers to do the same! She’s a follow and an aspiring lead so ask her to dance!