Shelly Smith is originally from Joplin, MO.  She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.F.A. in Dance Performance and a minor in Business Management from Missouri State University in 2004.  While attending MSU, Shelly had the pleasure of working with choreographers such as Lon Gordon, Rhythm McCarthy, and Sara Brummel.  Shelly was also a member of the Inertia Dance Company.  The company toured local elementary schools emphasizing the importance of reading through the interaction of creative movement.  Shelly was also selected to perform at the American College Dance Festival in Boulder, CO.  While attending MSU, shelly received multiple scholarships and the Dance Achievement Award for most improved in technical achievement.  In October 2005, Shelly moved to New York to peruse a career in dance.  She joined Push Factor Dance Company, as an apprentice member, in November 2007.