Naila is a Cum Laude graduate of Point Park University's Conservatory of Performing Arts program and is a distinguished MFA from the University at Buffalo. Ansari is a SUNY Buffalo State University Assistant Professor in Theater and Africana Studies. Ansari served as the choreographer for BLACK ROOTS SUMMER, named Best Theater by the New York Times. She was also praised by Broadway World for her Directing and Choreography of her adaptation of Shea's Performing Arts Center's first produced show, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, as well as choreography for the THE COLOR PURPLE, produced by Ujima Company Inc., Second Generation, and Shea's Performing Arts Center.