May 2016 Honoree
Jayme Smith
Studio J, Owner
Web Site: www.studiojbuffalo.com
Studio J was founded by Jayme Smith who was born into dance by her mother, Barbara Glover, owner of Miss Barbara’s School of Dance, the longest running African American dance school in Buffalo. Jayme wanted to open a business that would encompass many of her creative talents including dance, fitness and event planning. A place that was fun, affordable and more than just dance! Studio J offers a nurturing environment for youth to build character and self-esteem. Jayme enjoys inspiring adults become healthy and fit by teaching and offering various fitness classes.
Community service is another important part of Studio J. Students have performed at Niagara Hospice, HighPointe on Michigan and the Jefferson Arts Festival. Each year the studio offers free summer classes and tuition-free scholarships. At the very core of Studio J is family. The “blue house” that the business is located in makes everyone feel right at home. Each December the students and staff put on a holiday dinner show – bringing all of the studio families together. In April 2016, the studio hosted its first father-daughter dance that will become an annual event.
Jayme has been the chairperson for the WNY Black Film Festival for 13 years (since its inception). Organized in 2002, the film festival addresses vital issues and supports independent filmmakers. Various community organizations partner with Delta to support the event.