History

National League of Junior Cotillions®

From Lincolnton, North Carolina, to communities across the United States, the National League of Junior Cotillions® (NLJC®) helps young people build confidence, character, and social ease. Through courtesy and modern manners, character education, and ballroom dance, students learn skills that strengthen relationships for a lifetime in a structured, encouraging environment.

Mission Statement

To act and learn to treat others with honor, dignity, and respect for better relationships with our family, friends, and business associates later in life, and to learn and practice ballroom dance.

The Beginnings

NLJC’s story begins in Lincolnton, North Carolina. In 1978, Anne Colvin Winters began teaching etiquette and confidence-building classes to children in her hometown with a purpose that has never changed: helping young people develop confidence, courtesy, and the social skills that support success in school, relationships, and community life.

In 1979, the first chapter of what is now NLJC was established in North Carolina. Even in the earliest days, the heart of the experience was clear: a welcoming environment where students could learn, practice, and grow.

Building a National Organization

In 1981, Anne met Charles Anthony Winters. They soon married, and Charles joined her in building the program from the ground up. Their early classes reflected humble beginnings and a steady commitment to making students feel comfortable, capable, and included.

As the Lincolnton program expanded, Anne envisioned training others who shared her passion so local communities could offer the same high-quality experience. While social dance programs were common, her approach was distinctive. She believed courtesy, etiquette, and life skills should be central, supported by balanced classes, clear expectations, and a structured learning environment designed so every child could feel safe and successful.

In 1989, Anne and Charles established the National League of Junior Cotillions®, expanding the program by training and supporting directors in local communities. NLJC was incorporated in 1993, strengthening the organization’s structure and supporting continued growth. They traveled nationwide to train and encourage directors, and detailed manuals were developed early on to clearly outline how to build and operate a strong program. That commitment to clarity and encouragement helped create a consistent, high-quality experience for students and families.

Impact at a Glance

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Active Directors Nationwide
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New Directors Started in 2025
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Chapters Across 16 States
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Students Nationwide

Milestones

1978

Anne Colvin Winters begins teaching etiquette and confidence-building classes in Lincolnton, North Carolina.

1979

The first chapter of what is now NLJC is established in North Carolina.

1981

Anne and Charles Anthony Winters begin building the program together.

1989

NLJC® is established and director training expands nationally.

2009

Anne Colvin Winters passes away, and her legacy continues through every chapter and every student served.

Today

NLJC® continues nationwide through licensed directors, local chapters, and families committed to honor, dignity, and respect.

Charles Anthony Winters

President

Carrying the Legacy Forward

NLJC® was built on a foundation of respect, courtesy, and faith. Anne Colvin Winters passed away in 2009, but her influence continues in every student who learns to treat others with kindness, carry themselves with confidence, and step into new situations with poise.

Today, Charles Anthony Winters leads the organization with purpose and care. His son, Charles Winters II, and his wife, Jenna Winters, work closely with him, alongside a nationwide network of directors, to carry the mission forward and strengthen local communities through programs that families return to year after year.

Charles Winters II & Jenna Winters

Join NLJC®

We invite you to join the NLJC® community, whether as a parent, a student, or a new director.