June 23, 2025

Newton’s Budinich signs with Central College dance team

Cardinal senior chose Lady Dutch over Grand View University

By Troy Hyde
MeLayna Budinich

Newton senior MeLayna Budinich, second from the left, signed with the Central College dance team on Tuesday. She was joined at her signing by (from left) her father Merek Budinich, sister MaKarra Budinich and mother MeLissa Budinich. MeLayna Budinich chose Central over Grand View University. “I liked the smaller community better,” MeLayna Budinich said. “I liked the area it was in better. Both teams were very nice. I just liked the landscape and community better. I’m very lucky to have this opportunity.” MeLayna has been dancing she was 2 years old. “Dancing will always be a part of my life, but it was sad to know that I will never be on stage with my teammates again,” MeLayna Budinich said. “The friends I’ve made is what’s going to stick with me the most. Going on stage with some of your best friends is the most amazing thing in the world.” She plans to major in psychology and will room with Newton alum Paige Benson this upcoming school year. (Troy Hyde/Newton News)

Newton senior MeLayna Budinich signed with the Central College dance team on Tuesday and plans to major in psychology.