Venetia James found her passion for dance in 1997, while attending California
State University, Sacramento.  It was there that the director of Sacramento/Black Art of Dance (S/BAD), Dr. Linda Goodrich, introduced her to the various styles of Modern, Jazz/Contemporary West-African, Afro-Caribbean, and ballet technique.  For over five years, Venetia dedicated herself to studying with S/BAD and rapidly advanced in skill and theatrical presentation. 

 In 2002, Venetia experienced a life-changing event - the birth of her precious son - and soon thereafter met her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Since then, Venetia has diligently developed her gift/talent within the church and among other Christian dancers from varying congregations.  She danced with inter-congregation ministry G.L.O.W (Godly Ladies of Worship) since its inception in 2003, and founded two dance ministries of her own, S.O.U.L (Sold out unto the Lord) and S.O.U.L.J.A.S.
(Sold Out unto the Lord Justified and Anointed Saints), and currently as a collective in Ascension and Extension dance ministries.  In Ascension, Venetia’s emphasis is on image consulting, apologetics, and theography.

Furthermore, Miss James has been blessed to minister in dance before many local churches in northern California and organizations throughout the nation such as Faith Fellowship, B.O.S.S., New Christian Life, Radiant Life, Calvary Christian Center, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, Antioch Progressive Church, The California State Fair, California State University, Sacramento, The Sacramento Observer, Intel, NAACP, The Gospel Heritage Conference, Black Expo, and more. As well as noted gospel artists, Kirk Franklin, Crystal Aikens, Woods, Donnie McClurkin, Cece Winans, Martha Munizzi, Tye Tribett, Donald Lawrence, Edwin, and Walter Hawkins, Theresa Hairston, Paula White, John P. Kee, Marvin Sapp, Amar Khalil, Da Truth, Bishop Ulmer, Tramaine Hawkins, Myron Butler, Bobby Jones, etc.

 
With over ten years of dance training and 7 years of dance ministry behind her, Venetia is now focused on building a divinely inspired program  she titles "Theography."  A biblically based dance program that combines growth in Christ throughout His Word and proper dance technique,
"Theography" is the study/illustration of God through dance/communication.  Although with over 10 years of experience as a natural hair stylist, the concept of theography prompted Venetia's return to California State University, Sacramento, where she will complete her Bachelor's Degree in Dance with a Minor in Communications.  Upon completion, Ms. James will then pursue a Master's degree in Theology.

Melinda McClain began her dance journey by executing many dance styles throughout her six years of training in dunham, jazz, and modern dance under the direction of Dr. Linda Goodrich of Sacramento Black Art of Dance (SBAD) at California State University Sacramento (CSUS).  In addition, Melinda was one of the founding members of the CSUS Gospel Choir where she served as a secretary, singer, and gospel host throughout all four years of the choir’s concerts for her exuding natural joy for life and motivational demeanor. 

In 2003, after gradating with a degree in Government and a minor in Intercultural Communication, Melinda continued to train with SBAD as an alumnus by providing mentorship to young apprentices, management of administration activities, show production assistant, and choreography assistant.  After performing with SBAD through 10 of their seasonal concerts, Melinda began to make guest appearances with local praise dance company, Sold Out Unto the Lord Jesus Anointed Saints, (S.O.U.L.J.A.S.) and performed as dancer in the gospel play, Hallelujah City. 

 In 2006, Melinda was presented the “30 under 30” award by the Sacramento Observer which recognizes the top 30 young professionals under the age of 30 that have the potential for success.     During that time, Melinda re-dedicated her life to Jesus Christ and found her church home at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Sacramento, California where Dr. Ephraim Williams presides as the pastor.  At St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, Melinda is Chair of the College Student Ministry Committee, which focuses on outreach and retention of college students through intercessory prayer, discipleship, and mentorship.  In addition, Ms. McClain participates in other youth ministries at her church such as the Scholarship Committee and Vacation Bible School.  In 2008, Ms. McClain participated in her church home as a presenter to young adults on stewardship and future planning at their Singles Conference. 

After obtaining her Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco, Ms. McClain began her career as a registered state lobbyist representing several local government clients before the California State Legislature.  Ms. McClain is a proud member of the praise dance group Ascension where she excitedly uses her spiritual gift of administration to coordinate several administrative activities for the ministry such as marketing, booking and stewardship.   To contact Melinda, please email her at Melinda@ascension-pdm.com

Wanel Thomas

After graduation, Thomas continued her road of performing arts appearing in numerous plays and musicals including "Flying West", "Raisin", "Piano Lessons", "Colored Girls", "The Dream Goes On" and "Lost in the Stars".  Additional choreographer credits include multiple projects for California Musical Theater including "Gospel at Colonus", "Lost in the Stars" and the 2003-2005 "And the Dream Goes On" productions.  Her talent has also lead her to appear on TV & radio commercials and a short independent film.  In 2005, Thomas joined a praise dance ministry, G.L.O.W. (Godly Ladies of Worship) who in 2007 was the show opener for Kirk Franklin concert.  She is also the lead choreographer and movement coach for Images Theater Co., the first African-American Professional theater co. in Sacramento directed by Lisa Lacy.  In 2007, she choreographed and danced for Van Goss Ministries who opened for Donnie McClurkin and Cece Winans in Atlanta, Ga.  Currently, as a member of Ascension, she focuses on nutrition and fitness goals for the ministry.  In addition, she is the praise dance leader for Women of Worship (W.O.W.) at Faith Fellowship Community Church in Sacramento, California where she resides as a member. She is the founder of “Fitness for your Temple” which provides fitness instruction for the body and soul and a personal trainer for 24 Hour Fitness.