Dakota La Penna

Dakota La Penna was born in Arlington, Texas and raised in Burleson. She is currently a fourth-year senior at Texas Tech University and a fourth-year member of the Pom Squad. Growing up, Dakota trained in a variety of dance styles, helping develop her versatility, athleticism, and passion for performing. During her senior year of high school, she was recruited to join the Pom Squad- an opportunity that has become one of the most rewarding experiences of her collegiate career. She graduated from I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA, where she continued to grow both academically and artistically as a dancer and performer. 

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Being a Texas Tech Student has played a major role in shaping Dakota into the dancer, athlete, and person she is today. Through the challenges, memories and opportunities she has experienced as a student, she has learned the importance of hard work, grit, embracing challenges, and staying true to herself. Dakota is proud to represent Texas Tech University and carries the spirt and passion of being a Red Raider into every aspect of her life.