In late October, it is easy for students to lose motivation as they await Thanksgiving break, which could be a great reason to join Mark Shevy, professor and head of the communication and media studies department, in his twice-weekly Zumba classes. Shevy’s classes allow students to dance their hearts out to Latin music as they follow his lead. He intends to build connections and improve the well-being of those attending while providing a welcoming environment for all.

During his most recent class, passerby heard Shevy’s music and joined the group to dance unannounced. His powerful presence could allow many to end their night on fulfilling terms. 

“I want students to feel like this is their own time and their own space to do what’s good for them,” Shevy said. “The whole class is about well-being, physically, mentally, socially and otherwise. I try to have some physical activity that affects us mentally, and then I try to make some room for people to get to know each other and be happy.”  

Shevy prioritizes the happiness of his attendees under his instruction. Growing up, he realized that he wanted to make people happy, and found that Zumba is a great way to raise spirits and build confidence. After attending Zumba classes with his wife, he decided to push himself by becoming an instructor. Years later, he was able to watch his students of all skill levels move from the back of the class to the front, just as he did.

“After I started teaching Zumba and I heard people leaving the class saying, ‘I’m so happy,’ or ‘this is my favorite part of the week,’ I knew I was making my dream come true,” Shevy said. 

Students in his current classes can attest to this, because they walk out of the room each evening feeling better than ever. According to first-year student Janelle Harris, the class is a great way for her to stay active and have fun while doing it. When approached after a class, she beamed as she addressed her feelings.

“I’m on a high right now, and I am so energetic. I want to share all the love and self-confidence with everybody,” Harris said. “[It is important to] stay active and to get to know people, this forces you to get to know each other, but in a good way.”

With bright lights and lively moods, Zumba classes with Shevy are open to all rec center members and occur Monday and Thursday evenings at the PEIF. The hour is filled with dance routines and a unique Latin soundtrack.

“Rec sports classes, whether it’s Zumba, yoga or any other drop-in class is really important for well-being, not only physically, but also mentally and socially in other dimensions,” Shevy said. “I encourage as many people as possible to get involved with rec sports, and I encourage the university to support them to help well-being in all those areas.”