Nadine Hassen
Owner & Artistic Director
Nadine Abukhzam Hassen is an exciting educator, choreographer, dancer and motivator, who grew up in Thousand Oaks, CA where her passion for education, leadership, service, and dance was set in motion. Nadine graduated from California Lutheran University in 2019, where she received a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Educational Studies with a minor in Dance and a minor in Psychology, as well as a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in Elementary Education. As Head Coach/Captain of the Dance Team at California Lutheran University, Miss Nadine developed and expanded their dance program. Under her direction and mentorship, the CLU Dance Team received nationally ranked status for three consecutive years and continues to attain national dance recognitions. This incredible educator has taught K-3rd Grade at many schools, including most recently at REACH Leadership STEAM Academy in Riverside, CA.
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She has 13+ years of dance training in all genres including jazz, ballet, contemporary, musical theater, jazz funk, lyrical and hip hop. She trained and competed with the Thousand Oaks High School Varsity Dance Team. Nadine also coached the Redwood Middle School Dance Team for 6 years and has taught at numerous studios and schools throughout Southern California, including RAD (2017-2020). Miss Nadine will continue her love for shaping young minds as the new Owner and Artistic Director of Retters Academy of Dance! Her cutting edge style, energy, enthusiasm and excitement for dance and choreography shine bright! She has been inspired by many teachers and mentors, including Linda and Darryl, and hopes to continue their legacy as a role model for our RAD Dancers. Nadine aspires to continually challenge, inspire and empower others as she expresses her love and passion for dance and mentorship.
Administration Team
Co-OWnER & MARKETING DIRECTOR
Ramsey Hassen has over 15 years of experience as an administrator and educator in K-12 schools worldwide. Ramsey understands the importance of fusing education, empowerment, and leadership together as he works with parents, staff, and youth. He has completed a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and has coached and mentored thousands of individuals on self-empowerment, social-emotional learning strategies, and soft skills.
RAMSEY HASSEN
Administrative Manager
Ashley Alessi graduated with honors from California State University Northridge with a degree in Liberal Studies. Ashley’s talent, enthusiasm, skill and passion made for a favorite and beloved Starlet Teacher at RAD for nearing a decade! Her understanding of the Retter Philosophy (Ashely grew up dancing at Retters), has given her an invaluable and unique perspective that provides excellence with grace. Additionally, she is an invaluable member of RAD’s Administrative Department for five years. Miss Alessi is currently the Administrative Manager at Retters Academy of Dance.
ASHLEY ALESSI
RAD INSTRUCTORS
Our instructors are all professionals with experience, passion, and dedication to the students here at RAD. Click on each photo to take a deeper look into their wonderful backgrounds and accomplishments!