“Dance is the hidden language of the soul,” says the quote by dance pioneer Martha Graham.

This holds true for members of the Wilkes University Dance Team, a group of students who put their heart and soul into every crowd-energizing performance.

The team, established in fall 2010 by former member Jaclyn Palummo, gives students a fun way to explore their dance talents while meeting new people and supporting the university.

Jenna Vislosky, a senior nursing major from Peckville, Pa., has been elected this year’s president of the dance team. She previously served as the team’s secretary for three years.

Vislosky’s position as president also gives her the role of team captain. Her responsibility is to keep the team’s performance up to par and make sure things are running smoothly.

Usually, the captain and co-captain would create the team’s dance steps. But this year, choreography is a combined team effort. Vislosky says this has been working very well and has helped the team bond.

The choreography is mainly hip-hop and jazz, and is the kind of dance that will entertain and excite an audience. The team performs during halftime at all Wilkes men’s basketball home games.

Anyone with experience and an interest in dance, as well as school spirit, is welcome to join the team. Being a dance minor is not a requirement.

“I think it’s great having members as dance minors and non dance minors because it creates a more diverse and well-rounded team,” Vislosky said.

“With such a variety of dancers, the team is able to collaborate and use their dance and choreography skills from Wilkes and other dance facilities.”

Those interested in joining the dance team can contact Vislosky at [email protected], or Kendra Radle, the upcoming president for fall 2015-spring 2016, at [email protected].

Rehearsal times are scheduled every Sunday and Wednesday, and all members are expected to attend.