It was such an honor to be nominated and recognized by my students at William Paterson University as an Everyday Hero – an honor created to show appreciation to faculty that went above and beyond to inspire and support students. I would not be where I am without my own teachers and mentors who pushed me to be better when they saw room for growth, who grounded me as I branched into new directions and explorations, and supported me as a whole person. They not only taught me dance, but led by example, cared about me as an individual, and…