Bonnie Clifton
Peak Pilates · Mat · Reformer 1&2 · Jump Board · Cadillac
Our Team
The People Behind Every Transformation.
Meet the passionate instructors who make Ascendance feel like home. With decades of combined experience, our team is here to support, encourage, and guide you every step of your wellness journey.
Founder · Est. 2023
Donna Scott
NASM-CPT · Reformer 1&2 · Tower · Chair · Mat · Yoga · Barre
My name is Donna, and I am the founder of this special place. I have been a passionate fitness professional since 2010. I managed several high-end studios since 2015 and also owned my own boutique fitness studio, “IFoundFitness” in Deep River, CT from 2011–2014. I brought my expertise to Amelia Island in 2019 and knew this beautiful place needed a special fitness community to gather. I founded Ascendance Pilates Yoga & Barre the summer of 2023 and we first opened our doors in October of 2023.
I am committed to uniting movement and community. Ascendance aims to cater to diverse age groups and fitness levels. Beyond the studio, I cherish moments with my life partner Roger, three daughters, granddaughter, three dogs, and three cats. In my spare time, the creative side of me loves to paint abstract paintings.
With a multitude of certifications — including Barre, Yoga, Pilates Mat, Balanced Body Reformer 1&2, Cadillac/Tower, and Pilates Chair — I am a certified personal trainer (NASM) and I’m dedicated to making Ascendance the premier fitness destination on Amelia Island. Welcome to your new fitness home!
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Co-Founder · 20+ years teaching
Diane Cowan
Comprehensive cert · Core Dynamics · PT Assistant background
My name is Diane. I have been practicing and teaching Pilates Mat, Reformer, and mixed equipment for over 20 years. My comprehensive certification is through “Core Dynamics” taught by Michelle Larson. In addition, I have completed several continuing education trainings — including work with Madeline Black (Pilates for Scoliosis), Kevin Bowan, and Rebecca Leone.
My formal education includes an Associate's in Applied Science as a Physical Therapy Assistant, with experience in orthopedic, pain management, and nursing home settings. I enjoy putting my Pilates training to good use working with clients who may have physical issues or injuries, as well as clients that are in perfect shape.
In my spare time, I love to walk on the beach, bike on our beautiful island, and practice Pilates!
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The roster, continued
The Faces of Ascendance
Yin Yogis, Barre dancers, NASM-trainers, ballet specialists, MD’s and so much more.
Angela Brown
Yoga · Reiki · Nursing background
Jen Brazinsky
Pilates Tower · Reformer · TRX · Pre/postpartum
Whitney
Body Balance · ACE-CPT · 200hr Yoga (in training)
Dr. Mark Nelson
Retired cardiologist · NASM-CPT
Nicole M
Nataliia S
Kyiv Ballet Academy · Professional Ballet · Barre
Mikaela S
Certified Barre Instructor · Theatre Arts & Education
Welcome Home
More than a studio. A community you’ll love being part of.
From your first visit, you’ll be welcomed by expert instructors who genuinely care about your progress. Here, you’re more than a name on the schedule — you become part of a supportive community that’s cheering you on every step of the way.