The Lees-McRae dance team is led by Victoria Bowman, a Florida native and 20-year veteran of the dance industry. Throughout her career, Victoria has led programs across the high school and all-star dance markets and served as Director of Operations for PTC Productions, an affiliate of Broadway Dance Center in New York City.
A former Varsity brand representative and certified competition judge, Victoria brings a broad range of experience in dance, performance, program development and leadership to Lees-McRae. Entering her fifth season as head dance team coach and her second season as Director of Spirit Programs, Victoria oversees the strategic direction and continued elevation of the College’s gameday experience, including cheer, dance, mascot and pep band. Her vision is centered on creating a unified, high-energy spirit experience that enhances the atmosphere at athletic events, strengthens school pride and builds deeper connections across campus and throughout the community.
Under Victoria’s leadership, the dance program has expanded its presence both on campus and throughout the broader community. The team supports multiple Lees-McRae athletics programs, including women’s soccer and volleyball in the fall, as well as men’s and women’s basketball in the winter. Community engagement is a cornerstone of Victoria’s philosophy, and she is continuing to expand the program’s reach through a new partnership with Cranberry Middle School. The team is currently working to build out a new Spirit program at the school, creating opportunities for younger students to experience dance, cheer and the excitement of collegiate athletics while strengthening the connection between Lees-McRae and the next generation of High Country students.
In addition to her work at Lees-McRae, Victoria serves as the Executive Director of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, where she plays a vital role in supporting the growth and success of the local business community and advancing the region’s tourism efforts. Her leadership within the Chamber provides a unique perspective and extensive community network that positions her to serve as a bridge between Lees-McRae College and the High Country community, creating opportunities for meaningful partnerships, engagement and visibility both locally and beyond the region.
Victoria’s community leadership extends throughout the High Country. She serves as Chairwoman of the Woolly Worm Festival, one of the region’s signature annual events, welcoming more than 22,000 visitors to Avery County each year. In this role, she helps lead the planning, coordination and continued growth of a major community and tourism event. Victoria also remains active with the Banner Elk Elementary PTO and serves as a community and brand liaison for Structall Building Systems, her family-owned manufacturing company with locations in Newland and Lenoir.
Victoria and her family are deeply rooted in the High-Country community. Outside of her professional and community commitments, Victoria, her husband, Jon, and their two sons, Hunter and Wyatt, enjoy traveling, Fall in the mountains, middle school basketball and all things App State and University of Florida football. Family, community and a passion for developing young people remain at the heart of Victoria’s work both on and off the field.
