ORGANIZERS
Ronald Guillén
Ronald Guillen believes deeply in the inspirational power of dance and is driven by a passion for developing instructors and students through artistry, discipline, and connection.
Originally from Lima, Peru, Ronald grew up immersed in Latin and folkloric dance, forming the foundation of his distinctive style. In 2005, he moved to the United States and joined the Fred Astaire Dance Studios family as an instructor and professional competitor, beginning what is now more than 20 years of dedication to the organization as a leader, mentor, and performer.
Ronald, along with his wife Katie, owns Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Lakewood Ranch and South Tampa, Florida, and opened the first Fred Astaire Dance Studio in South America, located in San Isidro, Lima, Peru. He is a member of the Fred Astaire International Dance Council and an accomplished professional competitor. His competitive achievements include two-time U.S. Mambo Champion, Fred Astaire World Open Rhythm Champion, Fred Astaire World Rising Star Rhythm Champion, and Fred Astaire National Show Dance Champion, as well as finalist placements at the Emerald Ball Open Rhythm, Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Rhythm, and U.S. Rising Star Rhythm.
As a multi-studio owner and Area Director for Peru, Ronald is passionate about cultivating excellence in dance education, supporting instructor development, and creating new opportunities for dancers throughout Peru and beyond-while honoring the cultural roots that first inspired his love of dance.
Katie Guillén
Katie Guillen has dedicated her life to dance, valuing not only the art itself but the people and communities it brings together.
Katie began dancing at the age of three in Bradenton, Florida, training in Ballet, Tap, and Jazz. She continued dancing through her university years as a member of Florida State University’s Golden Girls Dance Team before earning degrees from Florida State University and the University of Florida. While her academic path led her to law, her passion ultimately brought her to Fred Astaire Dance Studios in 2007—first as a student, and shortly thereafter as a professional instructor.
Katie is a member of the Fred Astaire International Dance Council and a National Choreographer for Fred Astaire Dance Studios. As a professional competitor, her accomplishments include being a two-time U.S. Mambo Champion, a Fred Astaire World Open Rhythm Champion, Fred Astaire National Show Dance Champion, U.S. Open Cabaret and Theatrical Vice Champion, Emerald Ball Open Rhythm Finalist, U.S. Rising Star Rhythm Finalist, and an Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Rhythm Finalist.
Alongside her husband and business partner, Katie owns Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Lakewood Ranch, Florida; South Tampa, Florida; and San Isidro, Peru, and proudly serves as Area Director for Peru, working to develop dancers, instructors, and competitive excellence throughout the region.
