Serena’s teaching philosophy is simple: she provides a space for tap dancers to experience joy! She is passionate about nurturing each dancer’s individuality while honoring the rich history and musicality of the art form. Serena began dancing at age three at Jack Dyville’s Dance Factory in Williston, North Dakota. By fourth grade, she joined the prestigious Kids Company and advanced to A Company by eighth grade, earning numerous awards at competitions such as International Dance Challenge and Spotlight Dance Cup.

She began teaching tap to grades 1–6 at the Dance Factory in 2002 and soon became the studio’s tap specialist. One of her junior groups earned 2nd Overall at the 2003 Dance Challenge Competition. A five-time Miss North Dakota Scholarship Program participant, Serena was recognized with the High Score Preliminary Talent award in 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2012 for her self-choreographed tap solos.

Serena graduated summa cum laude from the University of Jamestown in 2010 with a BA in Business Administration and Communication and a minor in Character in Leadership. She earned her MBA from Grand Canyon University in 2012 and her Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University in 2021. She also holds certifications in Personal Fitness Training (AFAA), Zumba, and Jazz Dance Technique & Syllabus (James Robey). In 2024, Serena completed the 10-week iTap Teacher Certificate Program (Level 1) under the guidance of Hillary-Marie at iTapOnline.com.
In 2011, Serena co-founded Kay Michael Lee Studio in Williston, North Dakota, alongside her sister Sarah Johnson. The dance studio was known for bringing high-quality instruction to Western North Dakota, including Acrobatic Arts-certified programs and a school-sanctioned competitive team, and remained a community cornerstone until its closure in 2024.

Since 2016, Serena has taught advanced tap at Conservatory of Dance, where she also choreographs for the competitive team. Her work as an educator and choreographer has been widely recognized for its strong technique, musicality, and storytelling - garnering top scores, scholarships, and judges’ awards at regional and national levels. She served as adjunct faculty at Arizona State University’s School of Music, Dance, and Theatre in 2018 and has performed with Tap 24.7 and Dance Fusion, including appearances at Phoenix Suns games and full-length tap productions.
In 2023, Serena joined JAM & Company, an all-women tap ensemble led by Jenefer Miller. She is inspired by the group’s intricate choreography and collaborative spirit and is proud to contribute to its vibrant legacy.