Park District’s BDC Dance Program Earns National Recognition

Article Summary: The Frankfort Square Park District’s Board of Commissioners celebrated the national success of its BDC dance program, which recently won numerous accolades, including a studio excellence award, at the Applause 2025 Nationals competition in South Carolina.

Frankfort Square Park District Key Points:

• The BDC (dance) program was recognized for its performance at the Applause Nationals in North Charleston, South Carolina.

• The program received the ADCC Studio Excellence Award and dancer Olivia Meister was the Senior Photogenic Winner.

• BDC Co-Director Kari Jensen provided a summary of the program’s successful year, which included performing 82 dances at the national level.

The Frankfort Square Park District Board of Commissioners on Thursday, July 17, 2025, took time to formally recognize the outstanding achievements of its BDC competitive dance program.

Executive Director Audrey Marcquenski introduced BDC Co-Director Kari Jensen, who updated the board on the program’s recent success at the Applause 2025 Nationals held in North Charleston, South Carolina, from June 15-20. Jensen reported that the program performed 82 dances at the competition across novice, middle, ovation, and elite levels. Highlights included the program receiving the prestigious ADCC Studio Excellence Award and dancer Olivia Meister winning the Senior Photogenic category.

Jensen explained the BDC motto, “Protect Your Heart, Find Your Home, and Develop Your Own Voice,” which encourages dancers to explore multiple disciplines.

Commissioners expressed their pride in the program’s accomplishments. Commissioner Phil Cherry praised the BDC teachers for going “well above what is expected,” and Board President Craig Maksymiak noted that the staff’s hard work is appreciated by the board.

The successful program is looking forward to moving into its new, dedicated dance studio space at The Square facility, where construction is ongoing.