Cheryl Todmann has channeled her passion for dance, children, community building, and social justice into The Stars of New York Dance, reaching diverse audiences across New York City. She started her career in media marketing for prominent companies like Essence Magazine, The New York Times, and MTV Networks. However, at age 30, grappling with two bad knees, she felt a deep need for physical fulfillment. This led her to join the dance ministry at St. Paul Community Baptist Church in East New York, a decision that profoundly transformed her life. Through dance, Cheryl gained confidence and creativity, which also led to professional recognition and awards. She realized that if dance could have such a positive impact on her, it could help children achieve their full potential.

Taking a bold step, Cheryl left her corporate job to become a personal trainer, focusing on promoting movement and healing for herself and others. She established the Jewel & Rock Fitness dance program at St. Paul and, in 1999, began working with Creative Outlet Dance Theatre of Brooklyn as the marketing director in exchange for dance lessons.

In 2001, Cheryl made her professional dance debut with Creative Outlet’s “Best of Seven” dance concert at BAM, performed with Tony Award-winning choreographer George Faison in his “Tribute to the Amistad” at Riverbank Park, and danced at Isaac Hayes’ Birthday Bash at the Copacabana. Her Jewel & Rock Fitness dancers also became semifinalists in McDonald’s Gospelfest.

In 2002, Cheryl had the extraordinary opportunity to perform with 20 dancers from Jewel & Rock Fitness at Michael Jackson’s 30 Years of Magic Fan Celebration at Webster Hall. Michael Jackson himself praised the performance, saying, "I like the Jewels!”

In 2006, a single episode of Dancing with the Stars confirmed Cheryl’s calling. By 2010, she had founded The Stars of New York Dance in Brooklyn. Special guests included Rev. Al Sharpton, Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, and Chirlane McCray, who all danced at the event. Cheryl’s mentors, including Susan L. Taylor, Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, and Terrie M. Williams, joined hundreds of other guests in supporting the inaugural group of notable New Yorkers in this unique New York City dance-off.