Inside the Swing Dancing Club
This organization is providing a space for community & preserving a classic style of dance.
One organization on campus is bringing students together by teaching the skill of swing dancing. The Swing Dancing Club, established in 2022, is a hidden gem on Mississippi College’s campus.
Its members participate for a wide range of reasons. Dancing is an effective form of exercise, and many members recognize the physical benefit of participation. “I’m always sore and tired at the end of it, but in the best way possible,” said Hannah Pierce, an active member of the Swing Dancing Club. “It’s so much fun, and also a great cardio workout.”
A highlight of participation in the club is the opportunity to learn new swing dance moves, such as lifts and spins. “I have an adrenaline rush, so [I love] being able to try some of the crazy, fun ones,” said Ella Flynn, another active member of the Swing Dancing Club.
Regardless of skill level, the Swing Dancing Club welcomes all students with the purpose of learning.
For many members, a favorite aspect of participation is the sense of community. The Swing Dancing Club provides the opportunity to connect with a wide range of students apart from classes or tribes. “This is a fun way to meet people outside of your major, outside of your day-to-day life,” Flynn said.
Because of the flexible participation requirements, there is always a steady flow of new faces. “There’s constantly new people coming in,” Flynn said. “Everyone from different parts of campus, just getting together to do one thing.”
The regular attendees are a tight-knit group who have bonded over their shared love of dance. “I’ve been doing it for a year and a half,” said Ella MacGregor, a member of the Swing Dancing Club’s leadership team. “The people I met that first year are the people that I’m still friends with today.” There are approximately 15 to 20 students who regularly attend.
The Swing Dancing Club is also excited to participate in Swerve this year, the annual dance competition between the various organizations of Mississippi College. “We’ve learned the majority of our dance,” MacGregor said. “So, I’m excited to see how it comes together.”
Along with Swerve, the Swing Dancing Club plans several dances throughout the semester, such as the Winter Ball and the upcoming Valentines’ Day Ball. Held in Anderson Hall, these events serve as fundraising events to raise money for Swerve costumes and other resources while also providing an opportunity for students to learn new styles of dance. “They teach ballroom [dancing]… we learned the Viennese Waltz,” MacGregor recalled. “And they teach different dips.”
“Everyone should absolutely give it a try because it’s awesome. It’s a really good way to meet people. And if you’re scared, just come give it a shot,” MacGregor encourages.
The Swing Dancing Club meets every Friday at 8.30 p.m. on the third floor of Alumni Hall. Ellie Acton serves as the president, and Jackson Polk serves as the vice president.
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