Past stars, returning pros, a reunited dancing duo and even a husband-and-wife team will take the stage Thursday, Oct. 15, when the Enterprise State Community College Foundation presents its annual “Dancing for Scholarships” event.

This year’s theme, “One-Hit Wonders,” will have five couples taking inspiration from memorable songs and artists known for that one unforgettable hit as they compete for the People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice trophies.

“Dancing for Scholarships” is an annual fundraiser hosted by the Enterprise State Community College Foundation that showcases the talents of Wiregrass community stars and their dancing partners while raising funds to support ESCC students through Foundation scholarships. Last year, the event raised more than $70,000 for scholarships.

While this year’s theme celebrates artists who made their mark with a single hit, the dancers taking the stage are anything but one-hit wonders when it comes to “Dancing for Scholarships.” This year’s lineup brings back participants from several years of the competition, with some returning in new roles or with new partners.

This year’s dancing couples are:

• Troy Bradley (star) and Teniyah Ginyard (pro) – Bradley is returning to the dance floor after competing in the first ever “Dancing for Scholarships” competition in 2017. Ginyard is also no stranger to “Dancing for Scholarships,” having participated multiple times and served as a judge. She competed in 2019 and returned in 2024, when she and then-dance partner Eddie Byrd received the Judges’ Favorite award.
• Clair Goodson (star) and Brayden Vest (pro) – Both Goodson and Vest return with previous “Dancing for Scholarships” experience. Goodson competed in the 2024 competition, while Vest took the floor as a pro in 2025.
• Brad Johnson (star) and April Martin (pro) – Johnson returns to the “Dancing for Scholarships” stage after previously competing in 2018.
• Mary Merritt (star) and Rodrick Caldwell (pro) – Merritt and Caldwell are reuniting on the dance floor after competing together in 2024, when the pair channeled Tina Turner for their performance of “Proud Mary.”
• Michael Walters (star) and Heather Walters (pro) – Michael Walters returns after competing in 2024, but this time he’ll have a particularly familiar partner by his side — his wife, Heather.

Tickets and sponsorships for “Dancing for Scholarships” are available now. Early-bird tickets are $60 through September 18. Beginning September 19, regular admission is $75 per ticket. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased at escc.edu/dfs2026. For more information, contact Natalie Bradley at nbradley@escc.edu.

Doors will open Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m., and the competition will start at 7 p.m.