About Us
Directors
Margaret Vermillion
Teaching is my PASSION! It is my goal to reach each and every child who enrolls in our Program. I want them to understand the importance of knowing proper etiquette and manners and the positive impact these skills can have on their lives. I became a director of Durham Junior Cotillion in 2012. I graduated from Converse College in Spartanburg, SC. I am a Durham native. I am married to Drew and we have three daughters. Two who graduated from the Program and one who is currently enrolled. I took some of the first Cotillion classes under the guidance of Mr. Barnes and look back on those times fondly. It is an honor and a privilege to be able to teach your children Cotillion. I am so appreciative of these precious relationships each season!
Mary Lloyd Preble
I am thrilled to join Margaret as co-director of the Durham Junior Cotillion. I attended Durham Junior Cotillion as a middle schooler and still use the lessons Mrs. Rouse and Mrs. Brame taught me daily. I firmly believe manners and etiquette are life skills that, when learned and practiced, enable us to be more prepared and at ease in social situations big and small. My older children, Jack and Allison grew in confidence through Cotillion and I can’t wait to watch my youngest son, Wright, tackle the box step, a firm hand shake, table manners and much more as he begins the program. I am so excited for Cotillion to return in the fall and can’t wait to meet and work with your children.
Our Program
Our program approaches etiquette and manners as important life skills. We believe that understanding the mechanics of social etiquette builds confidence and gives an edge in interpersonal interactions. Our program is based on exposure and practice. Each year skill work builds in complexity. We cover topics from greetings and handshakes, conversation cues and starters, table settings and mechanics, note writing, cell phone etiquette, dancing, and much more. Our teaching style is laid back, inclusive, and fun. We want students to remember Durham Junior Cotillion as a positive part of their middle school years.