OWNER / DIRECTOR

TMCRN

Since I was five years old, Irish dance has been part of who I am—honestly, it’s never been a “hobby”… it’s just life at this point. And yes, I still love it just as much (maybe more) now as I did back then.

I started teaching at 18 after finishing my competitive career at the championship level, and I quickly realized I loved being in the studio just as much as being on stage. Back then, most dancers wrapped up around that age—but now? We’re all about dancing as long as you love it. That’s something I really believe in, and it’s the mindset we bring into our studio every day.

In 1999, I opened McGovern Irish Dance, and what started as a small dream has grown into something really special. We’ve built an incredible community of dancers and families across our locations, and that’s truly what I’m most proud of. This studio isn’t just about steps—it’s about confidence, friendships, and giving dancers a place where they feel like they belong.

Around here, we work hard, we laugh a lot, and we celebrate every win—big or small. I care deeply about each dancer who walks through our doors, and I want every family to feel supported, informed, and part of what we’re building.

I’m always here—whether you have a question, need guidance, or just want to chat about your dancer’s progress. (Or, let’s be honest, compare notes on busy schedules!)

At the end of the day, I still get the same feeling watching my dancers perform as I did when I was young—it’s exciting, a little emotional, and incredibly rewarding. Getting to pass that love of Irish dance on to the next generation? That’s the best part.

Associate Dance Instructor

Hello! I’m Susan Millsaps, Associate Dance Instructor with Shelagh McGovern at McGovern Irish Dance. I’m so thrilled to share a bit about my journey and passion for Irish Dance with you.

My love for Irish dancing began back in January of 1991, and from the moment I stepped onto the dance floor, I felt at home. This art form, with its rhythm, grace, and incredible tradition, quickly became a central part of my life.  I began competing in 2005, dedicating myself to growing as a dancer and challenging myself to progress through each level.  Now, with 17 competitions under my belt and the achievement of Mean Grad level, I feel fortunate to have experienced so much joy, growth, and camaraderie in the Irish dance community.

In 2019, I took on the role of assistant teacher, allowing me to share this passion with our dancers. Teaching alongside Shelagh has been a joy, and helping students of all ages grow in their dance journey is immensely fulfilling. Although I’m currently on hiatus from competition due to arthritis, one of my greatest highlights will always be sharing the podium with my daughter at the 2018 CRN Regionals. We tied for third place in the single jig, a moment of pure pride and connection that I’ll always cherish.

Irish dance has given me a lifetime of memories, and I can’t wait to create even more with the wonderful students and families here at McGovern Irish Dance. Thank you for being part of this journey with me!

Creative Director/Associate Dance Instructor

Hello! I’m Karen McCulloch Stockinger, and my journey in dance began in Paisley, Scotland. When my family made the move to St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, I had no idea how much this new chapter would shape my life. It all started when my parents joined a local Irish Club, and I discovered the magic of Irish dance at The Bryan School of Irish Dance. From there, I dove right in and loved every moment!

As I progressed through the levels, I found myself in the highly competitive Open/Champion Levels, where I had the privilege of winning numerous awards over the years. While Irish dance has always been my primary passion, I've also dabbled in Highland dancing. Spending time with Pat McMaster at the McMaster School of Highland Dance gave me a wonderful foundation in those traditional steps, even though I never formally took classes.

In 2005, I took a big leap and founded the McCulloch School of Irish Dance in Hudson, Ohio. Since then, I’ve had the joy of teaching dancers at all levels, from beginners just finding their feet to those striving for World Championship titles. Each dancer has a special place in my heart, and I cherish the growth and achievements we’ve celebrated together!

My teaching philosophy centers on creating a relaxed, supportive, and fun atmosphere where everyone feels encouraged to express themselves and enjoy the art of dance. Now, I’m absolutely thrilled to bring my knowledge and experience to McGovern Irish Dance as their Creative Director. I can’t wait to share this beautiful tradition with our dancers and help them shine in their own unique ways!

Associate Dance Instructor

Hi! I’m Judi Risler, and I’m so excited to be a part of the McGovern Irish Dance here in Indiana. My Irish dance journey started with a love of music and family tradition—growing up between California and Hawaii, my family would throw the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parties. As long as the music played, I’d be the last one dancing, and those early memories sparked a passion that has only grown over the years.

I got my start by finding an Irish dance DVD online, and from the very first step, I was hooked. When Nine Irish Brothers opened and offered free dance lessons, I jumped at the chance. Then, while dancing at the pub a couple of years later, I met a McGovern student who told me about the local branch in West Lafayette. By mid-fall of 2013, I was officially part of McGovern Irish Dance, training with Shelagh McGovern and Tam Deford, and I entered my first competition the following spring.

Since then, I’ve competed in several regional and national championships, earning medals along the way, including two national titles! One of my favorite moments was participating in Fusion Fighters’ “Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day” video workshop—it was a blast to be part of such a big project.

Alongside Irish dance, I’m also an accomplished Judo athlete. Training in Judo has taught me discipline, strength, and focus, which I bring into my dance and teaching as well. Now, as an Assistant Instructor at McGovern, I’m thrilled to share my love of Irish dance with students of all ages.

Now, seven years later, I’m thrilled to serve as an Associate Dance Instructor at McGovern Irish Dance. Sharing this art form with students of all ages is truly rewarding. Whether you’re brand new to Irish dance or coming back for another season, I can’t wait to welcome you into our McGovern family and share the joy of Irish dance with you!

Associate Dance Instructor Preschool Irish Dance

Hi, I’m Jessica, and I’ve been dancing with McGovern Irish Dance for 25 years! My journey with Irish dance began when I was a teenager. I’ll never forget watching Lord of the Dance with Michael Flatley—right then, I knew I needed to dance like that! At 15, I started lessons with Shelagh McGovern herself, who was just starting her school. It was an incredible opportunity, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

Over the years, I’ve embraced every part of Irish dance, from competing in solos and team events to performing on festival stages and helping my teammates improve. I’ve even reached the champion level, winning 9 Regional Championship titles, including 4 wins, and 5 North American National Championship titles, with 2 wins! This school has become my second family, and each experience we share, both in and out of class, has deepened my love for it.

Alongside dance, I’ve always had a passion for working with young children. I graduated with a degree in early childhood education and became a preschool teacher before finding my way into the creative field of hairstyling, where I work today. But I never lost that love for teaching little ones! Getting to teach toddler and preschool dance classes now allows me to combine my passions for both dance and early childhood education.

I want to give these little dancers not just the skills of Irish dance but also the joy it brings. To me, there’s nothing more rewarding than sharing that love and fun with the next generation!