Gabby Andrews signs a dance scholarship to USM

St. Aloysius Flashette Gabby Andrews has signed a scholarship to dance with the Southern Misses Dance Team at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Gabby Andrews: Photo by Keith Phillips

Andrews began dancing at the age of two, beginning with Mrs. Shey and a the age of five she started the Debra Franco School of Dance.

Debra Franco and Gabby Andrews: Photo by Keith Phillips

“Dancing allows me to be able to express myself because I’m not much of a talker so I love to express myself through dance,” Andrews said.

In high school, Andrews joined the Flashette Dance Team where they won the state championship every year and made a deep run in Nationals in 2023 under the leadership of Coach Chesley Lambiotte.

Chesley Lambiotte and Gabby Andrews: Photo by Keith Phillips

“Going to Disney World for Nationals this year has to be my favorite memory and getting eighth in the nation,” Andrews said. “It was extraordinary and pretty cool because we worked really hard so it was a big accomplishment.”

The Flashettes: Photo by Keith Phillips

Andrews was named as a team captain heading into her senior year after much hard work over the years.

“It was scary at first but its been the best experience getting to see everyone look up to you as a role model,” Andrews added.

Karly Henderson, Gabby Andrews and Ally Doiron: Photo by Keith Phillips

All of Andrews’ hard work has now paid off and she thanked her support system for everything over the years.

“I want to thank Mrs. Debra Franco because she taught me the most of my dance experience,” Andrews said. “I also want to thank my friends, family, and coaches for sticking with me.”

Gabby is the daughter of Brandon and Tiffany Andrews and she will be majoring in forensic science.