15 Questions with Allison Belton

What initially drew you to competitive ballroom dancing, and how long have you been involved?

I took my first dance steps January 31, 2024, looking for a joyful way to navigate the heartbreak of losing my mom. What started as a fun social escape quickly turned into something much bigger. I entered my first competition on a whim, and that is when the magic hit. I fell head over heels for not just the rhythm and movement, but the thrill of competing! Now, I am completely hooked – dancing and competing have become my passion. 

What are some of the key elements that judges typically look for in competitive ballroom dancing?

Since we compete in 17 different dances across three different divisions, we always have eyes on us. The judges are carefully watching our technique, partnership, and expressions. 

Technique is the foundation of everything. Judges are looking for clean, precise execution of steps, proper posture, frame, footwork, and timing. Whether it’s the Waltz or Rumba, demonstrating control, balance, and understanding of dance fundamentals shows your mastery of form. 

If technique is the foundation, then partnership is the core of ballroom dancing. Judges want to see a genuine connection, trust, and responsiveness between partners. That means clear leading and following, synchronized movement, and an overall sense of two dancers are working as one. Chemistry, communication through movement, and mutual awareness are key.

Expression is where the magic happens. Judges are drawn to dancers who tell a story through their performance. Facial expression, musicality, emotional engagement, and style all come into play. It’s not just about hitting the steps, it’s about making the audience feel something and drawing them into the experience. 

At the heart of it all, it’s about showing your passion for dance, your partner, and leaving it all on the floor.

How do you typically select your music and develop choreography for your routines?

When we step on the dance floor for solo and multi-dance championships, it’s a total wild card – we don’t get to choose the music, and there is no set choreography. AJ, my dance partner, listens to the music and off we go dancing. I have to read his movement and trust both him and the rhythm we are creating together, in real time. It’s thrilling and a little terrifying, but that is what makes it both special and magical – connected, alive, and completely present with each other in that moment. 

Showcases are a whole different vibe (think Dancing with the Stars format). We get to choose our music and perform choreography that my partner and I, or sometimes even another dancer from a different studio, have put together. It’s such a blast finding the perfect song that speaks to us and pushes me creatively. I love the challenge of bringing emotion, movement, and artistry together in a way that really tells a story. It’s where the magic of performance meets personal expression, and I can’t get enough of it. 

Can you share a particularly memorable or challenging experience you’ve had during a competition?

Most challenging? Honestly, does stepping onto the dance floor for the first time at any competition count? Because that is completely outside my comfort zone and takes a lot of trust in yourself and your partner. 

The most unforgettable part of this journey has been creating incredible memories with an amazing dance partner, getting to travel, and doing something that lights me up inside. 

Achievement wise, it’s been a wild ride! Within just 8 months of dancing, I took home the Top Student, Newcomer at Regional, Inter-regional, and National events. And 2025 kicked off with a bang – I earned Top Student, Bronze Female at my first Inter-regional competition of the year. It’s been such an amazing whirlwind, and I am loving every second of it. 

If someone wanted to try ballroom dancing, what advice would you give them?

They can start like I did… come with me to a Fred Astaire guest party! They happen once a month and are such a fun, low-pressure way to see what the world of dance is all about. You’ll get a chance to watch, try a few steps, and soak in the energy. If it sparks your interest (and I have a feeling it might), you can grab a package of three mini-sessions to dip your toes in and see if it is your thing. No pressure, just good vibes, great music, and a chance to discover something new. No time for the guest party, just drop in the studio and tell them that I sent you!

You can check out some of my dance videos on my Instagram page @sophie.mainecoon (yes, it is a cat account – my other hobby is Instagram advertising for pets). 

How long have you worked at WFU? 

I have worked in the Wake Forest family since 1999. I started off with a small hospital leased by the hospital, moved over to the Medical School, and now I have been on the University side for approximately 22 years. 

In layman’s terms, what’s your job here at WFU? 

I oversee Payment Services, which means I ensure everything is being processed and paid in accordance with tax regulations, as well as accurately and on time. Additionally, I oversee the data, technology, supplier administration, and card service functions of the P2P process. 

What do you like best about working at WFU? 

The people. There is a sense of community here that you don’t find at many other places. 

What’s your favorite place on campus? 

The Quad in the spring. There is something about the smell of freshly cut grass, the burst of color from blooming flowers, and the buzz of students hurrying to class that brings the entire campus to life. It’s the perfect blend of energy and beauty. It feels like the heart of everything. 

What is your favorite WFU tradition or activity? 

There are so many! I am going to have to think more about this one. 

How would you describe your music taste? 

Eclectic. I like anything from classical to Pitbull. 

What book, TV show, or podcast would you recommend to our readers?

With all the dancing, I don’t have a lot of time for reading right now, but one of my favorite books is The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. This is a great read and lots of good lessons in it.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? 

Don’t take yourself too seriously. Learn to laugh at and love yourself. Remember you are enough. 

What is your hidden talent? 

I can make up song lyrics to fit situations and often my friends get these as gifts. Just ask Natalie Hill about the song I did for her! 

What brings you joy? 

My cats, their Instagram page, dancing, dancing with my dance partner, and just life in general – those are the things that light me up. We only get one shot at this, and I believe in making the most of every moment, filling it with joy, connection, and the things that make us feel alive.

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Do you or a colleague have an interesting hobby or achievement and would like to be featured in an upcoming 15 Questions? Email Elizabeth Dam-Regier (damregej@wfu.edu), Senior Director of Strategic Communications (F&A).