Susie Thompson, five-time U.S. Rhythm Champion, has been one of the most successful professional competitors in the United States, and is a highly sought teacher, coach, lecturer and adjudicator. She started dancing on a dance team for the University of Texas, seizing the opportunity to do something she always loved…dancing. In less than 4 months, Susie placed 2nd in the United States Championships in American Rhythm and won the U.S. Rising Star Latin title. Two years later, she won the American Rhythm division. She kept the title for 5 years and within that period, added many other championship titles such as Ohio Star Ball, Texas Challenge, the Canadian Championship, and the Emerald Ball to name a few. Susie and her partner Forrest Vance were also the Fred Astaire Champions for 11 national competitions. During their reign, they traveled to Europe doing shows and lectures. After this run, Susie and Forrest retired undefeated. A few years later, Susie returned to the competition scene with Michael Neil and won many more competitions in American Rhythm throughout North America as well as adding many theatrical and show dance titles. She remained a strong United States finalist in the American Rhythm division for another 5 years and also was a world mambo finalist during those years.

In addition to being a top-flight competitor and quality performer, Susie is a prominent teacher and coach. She has developed students who have won U.S. titles and placed in many major finals. Although now retired from professional competition, Susie continues to teach and offer private coaching, and travels around the country to coach, lecture, and judge.

Susie can break things down for beginners just as well as advanced dancers with her years of learning how to teach essential elements.