Meet our instruction team:
Ann Johnston Sullivan, TCRG ADCRG
Ann Johnston-Sullivan is the founder of the Johnston School of Irish Dance, where she has dedicated her life to sharing the art, discipline, and joy of Irish dance with generations of students.
Born to Irish immigrants Gus and Alice Johnston, Ann grew up deeply connected to her heritage. After having two sons, Gus and Alice were thrilled to welcome a daughter and hoped she would one day become an Irish dancer. That dream began early— Ann started dancing at just four years old under Syracuse’s only teacher at the time, Chuck Courtney. After his retirement, she continued her training with Patrick Butler, and Irish dance went from being a fun afternoon activity to a highly competitive sport.
Ann quickly rose through the ranks, attending her first Oireachtas at age 10 and qualifying for the World Championships every year thereafter. She was a consistent presence on the podium at regional and national competitions, excelling in solos, céilí, and choreography events. She later stepped away from competition to earn her T.C.R.G. certification and went on to achieve her A.D.C.R.G., allowing her to adjudicate competitions worldwide. Since 1999, Ann has judged extensively, including regional championships and the North American Irish Dance Championships.
As a teacher, Ann takes great pride in her students’ success, including multiple top-10 finishes at the World Championships across solo, céilí, and choreography categories. However, she believes Irish dance is about more than competition—it is a meaningful way to celebrate heritage, build community, and give back. Her school regularly performs at nursing homes, community festivals, and local events, and hosts annual “hooleys” that bring dancers and families together.
Beyond dance, Ann is a graduate of Le Moyne College with a B.A. in Accounting. She applies that expertise in co-running her family business, Johnston Tax Service—often joking that her first words were “W-2,” as she has been involved in tax preparation since childhood.
When she’s not teaching or judging, Ann enjoys traveling with her husband, Eric, and their two children, Fiona and Declan. Through Irish dance, she has built lifelong friendships—from fellow dancers to students and families—and continues to inspire a love of tradition, excellence, and community in all she does.
Patty Wilsch, TCRG
Patty also began dancing at 4 years old. She met Ann and formed a lifelong friendship while dancing for Patrick Butler. She joined Ann’s school in 1997 and earned her TCRG in 2001.
Abby Cook, TCRG
I began Irish dancing at age 5 under the guidance of Ann and Patty at the Johnston School, where I instantly fell in love with the art and energy of Irish dance. Over the years, I competed in both ceili and solo dancing, earning top 10 placements regionally and internationally, and proudly becoming a World Medal Holder. One of my most memorable experiences was being part of a two-time Regional Champion 16-Hand Choreography team.
After retiring from competition, I turned my passion into a profession. I graduated from SUNY Brockport in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology, along with a minor in Biology. In 2015, I became a certified TCRG and opened our Vestal location through Clann Na Cara. Most recently, in February 2024, I expanded into Scranton, proudly continuing the legacy of the Gallagher School of Irish Dance following Fedelmia Gallagher’s retirement.
My mission is to share the joy, tradition, and spirit of Irish dance with the next generation—just as it was shared with me.
Brittany O’Reilly, TCRG
Brittany is thrilled to be a part of the Johnston team! Brittany grew up dancing in the Rochester area for the Drumcliffe School of Irish Dance and competed at the World Championships for the first time at just 11 years old, returning many years until her final Worlds in 2010 where she placed 20th in her age group. Receiving her TCRG in 2015, Brittany has special interests in engaging all ages in Irish Dancing, from the youngest beginners to the seasoned competitor to adults. Brittany holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Music Education and teaches PreK-5th Grade Music and Chorus in addition to her dance career.
Johnston School of Irish Dance 