Samantha Mercado is a NYC based dancer and teacher. After graduating from Hofstra University with a BA in Dance, she went on to acquire a Masters of Public Health from NYU and currently works full-time as a Senior Public Health Specialist for the COVID-19 pandemic. Samantha is committed to exploring themes such as equity, health and unity through dance. As a first generation American she is always moving from a place of honor and homage to her Caribbean heritage. She has performed at Jamaica Performing Arts Center, the John Cranford Adams Playhouse and the Frederick Lowe Theater at NYU. She joined IDDF in December of 2021 as an apprentice and this will be her first public performance with the company.