Cassidy Banwart will graduate with highest distinction in May 2025 with a BFA in Dance and a BA in Interdepartmental Business Studies with an Arts Management emphasis from the University of Iowa. Originally from Waukee, Iowa, she trained at the School of Classical Ballet and Dance under the direction of Lori Grooters and Serkan Usta. Throughout high school, Cassidy danced with Ballet Des Moines Second Company. She later joined Ballet Des Moines as a Trainee, performing across the state of Iowa in the company's Dance Into Spring Tour. Cassidy has furthered her training with intensives at Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, FLOCK, DanceWorks Chicago, Complexions Contemporary Ballet and BalletX.

Cassidy is truly grateful to the University of Iowa Department of Dance, as well as the faculty, graduate students, and fellow undergraduates, for their support and inspiration over the past four years.