Niki Mahon

With a passion for dance, creativity and movement, Niki (Wilk) Mahon turned her zeal into a career.”

A 2008 graduate of Triton College, Mahon credits her time at Triton for giving her the flexibility and freedom to pursue her dance dreams and entrepreneurial endeavors.

“As the owner of Turning Point Dance and the barre ep studio + café, both located in Elmwood Park, I can honestly say that it’s never too late to do what you love,” she said.

As a member of the Triton College Alumni Association, Mahon hopes to give back to the community that helped her get her start.

“Reconnecting with alumni through the Alumni Association is so important to me,” she added.

Growing up in Elmwood Park, Mahon took an interest in dance at a young age. Her parents enrolled her in classes at Turning Point Dance, which gave her the confidence to perform in front of others.

“I realized early on that I was good at dancing and performing,” she said. “Dance allowed me to connect with others as well myself.”

Following years of intense dance training, Mahon decided to pursue a dance career after graduating from Trinity High School. She enrolled in college courses at Columbia College Chicago, while simultaneously auditioning for dancing jobs. Although her studies were important to her, she found it difficult to balance auditions with her class schedule. She decided to take some time off from college but eventually felt the urge to return to the classroom.

“I thought it was too late for me to finish college,” she said. “As I know now, it’s never too late! I enrolled at Triton and started working towards a personal training certification, utilizing my passion for movement and knowledge of exercise.”

After earning her associate degree from Triton in 2008, Mahon went on to Northeastern Illinois University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and theatre and a minor in dance.

She furthered her education by acquiring a master’s degree in physical education and dance from Concordia University in 2011.

“Triton gave me the opportunity to go to school while pursuing my dreams,” she explained.

As the owner of two Elmwood Park fitness and dance establishments, Mahon also juggles life as a wife and mom. Her three children are all involved in dance, especially her daughter, who is a competitive Irish dancer. In addition to her many accomplishments, she serves as a board member of the Grand Chamber by O’Hare.

“It’s so important for the community to know that Triton is a great option,” said Mahon. “I’m looking forward to making a positive contribution to Triton’s Alumni Association team.”