Find confirmed 2025 conference presenters and speakers below, alphabetically by last name.
This page will be updated as additional presenters and sessions are confirmed.
This page will be kept as current as possible, but all information is subject to change.
This page will be updated with 2025 presenters shortly.
Interested in presenting? The 2025 RFP is open now.
Dr. Jan Adversario
ESL Instructor
Austin Community College
Dr. Jan Adversario is a per course faculty member at Texas State University and teaches graduate level courses in the Adult, Professional, and Community Education. In addition, he works as an English instructor at Austin Community College.
These teaching experiences combined with his work as a volunteer for several community-based programs inform his academic publications related to civic education, adult literacy development, health literacy, Asian hate crimes, and adult education. His mission is to create more inclusive, equitable, and accessible education for adult learners in different learning environments and the workplace.
Adversario’s scholarly work has been published in prestigious journals such as Adult Learning, New Directions for Adult & Continuing Education, and Dialogues in Social Justice: An Adult Education Journal.
Jacqueline Aguilera
Project Manager – Provider Liaison
Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy – HPL
Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38+ years of service through instruction, program development, adult ed tech innovation, provider liaison work, and community building. She is a dedicated advocate for life literacy, including financial literacy, and is a founding member of Houston Money Week.
As Project Manager/Provider Liaison for the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy in Houston, Texas, she supports the office’s mission to serve adult literacy providers of Houston through advocacy, assessment, partnership development, outreach development, and strategic applications of Houston’s Adult Literacy Blueprint. Her leadership in edtech innovations for adult education promotes empowerment in the evolving digital age, earning her access to pilot program opportunities for providers and their learners.
Her impact in edtech earned her a Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias award for digital education and innovation in 2021. Jacqueline is a breast cancer warrior and agent for change as a speaker, trainer, instructor, planner, and motivator.
Mahalia Baldini
AEL State Director
Texas Workforce Commission
Opening Speaker – Tuesday, August 5:
“The State of the State in Adult Education”
Mahalia Baldini was named the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) State Director in September 2020 after serving as the program’s supervisor for over six years. She earned her B.A in Journalism from the University of Kentucky and her Master’s in Education from Texas State University.
Mrs. Baldini has spent the last fifteen years integrating workforce and economic development with educational solutions that center on outcomes for low and middle skill workers. She believes in and values a system that supports equitable education and learning opportunities that focus on an individual’s academic preparedness and advancement as well as the social and emotional intelligence needed to contribute to a positive work culture aligned to employer needs.
Karin Bates
TESOL Specialist
Intercambio Uniting Communities
Karin has over 30 years of experience teaching English to speakers of other languages of all ages and in multiple settings. Karin joined Intercambio in January 2022 after most recently working for five years at a non-profit teaching English and adult basic education to immigrants and refugees.
As the TESOL Specialist, Karin is responsible for the training and ongoing development of teachers in The Intercambio Way, both locally and nationally, along with supporting the development of curriculum and materials. Karin received her M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) in 1995 from the University of Colorado at Denver.
Paula Bauer
PD Specialist
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Paula holds an MBA in Management Information Systems and a BBA in Personnel Administration of Industrial Relations/Personnel Management of Organizational Behavior. With 25 years of experience in Adult Education, she has served as a Program Director for a Family Literacy Program and a Professional Development Specialist with TCALL. She has also been a member of the TCALL Training of Trainers (TOT) group for the past year.
As the PD specialist for Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Volunteer Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) programs in Texas, Paula addresses the training needs of Volunteer/CBO providers. She facilitates coordination with state and regional literacy coalitions, TWC-funded providers, and capacity-building projects. Paula is the point of contact for professional development expertise and supports local adult education and literacy providers statewide.
Paula manages professional development information and networking, liaising with state and regional literacy coalitions and TWC-funded capacity-building projects. She coordinates and communicates opportunities through the statewide email list for CBOs/VOLs in Texas. Paula participates in regular planning and strategy meetings with PD Center Specialists and leadership, keeping up with trends in the field. She delivers training according to statewide priorities and schedules. Additionally, Paula manages the Resource Collection group within TCALL, overseeing the production, inventory, and distribution of training materials, and supervises student workers in customer service and materials distribution.
Ann Beeson, M. Ed.
Senior Sales Consultant
New Readers Press/ProLiteracy
Ann Beeson has worked with literacy and adult education programs for over 24 years, and currently works in 7 states. As an independent sales consultant, Ann offers resources primarily through New Readers Press, for programs working with adult learners.
In addition, Ann presents on a wide variety of topics relevant to ABE and ELL programs, from the program level, to state and national events.
She has a Master’s degree in Curriculum & Instructional design from the University of Minnesota.
Liz Bohon
Program Coordinator
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Liz Bohon is a dedicated adult education professional with a diverse background spanning education, legal studies, and technology. As a Program Coordinator at the Distance Education Professional Development Center (DEPDC) under Texas A&M’s TCALL, she coordinates initiatives that expand digital literacy, digital access, and innovative learning opportunities for adult learners across Texas.
Passionate about supporting adult learners, Liz collaborates with educators, libraries, and nonprofits to develop sustainable digital upskilling strategies. She is a driving force behind the Digital Navigators Pilot initiative in Texas in collaboration with Literacy Minnesota and AmeriCorps, ensuring that learners receive the support needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Beyond her professional work, Liz enjoys exploring emerging technologies, gaming in expansive open-world RPGs, and homesteading with her goats, chickens, and bees. Her commitment to lifelong learning extends beyond the classroom, shaping both her career and personal pursuits.
HeeJae Chung
Adult, Community, and Professional Education Instructor
Texas State University
Dr. HeeJae Chung is a practitioner-scholar specializing in adult learning, English language-culture literacy, program/curriculum design, and learning/community engagement. She has over 11 years of experience in adult teaching and curriculum design, expanding across different subject areas in various settings (corporate, public libraries, higher education, private).
Previously, Dr. Chung served as the Assistant Director for Education and Engagement at the University of Washington’s Center for an Informed Public, where she played a key role in bridging research and practice for the public. In this role, she developed educational programs and professional development workshops focused on media and information literacy, expanding her interest in addressing the challenges posed by today’s information landscape and empowering adult educators to promote skills and new approaches to (re)build healthy communities together.
Currently, Dr. Chung is an educational content development consultant, a lecturer for the Adult, Professional, and Community Education graduate programs at Texas State University, and an ESL instructor at San Antonio College, continuing her commitment to empowering adult educators and learners with essential literacy and engagement skills to navigate the increasingly complex reality.
David Coles
Adult Education Trainer & Coordinator
Memorial Assistance Ministries
David Coles is the Adult Education and Literacy Trainer for one of the largest community-based programs in Texas, serving several hundred adult ESL, citizenship, and digital literacy learners annually.
With a background in music education and a master’s degree as a literacy specialist, David has trained many volunteer teachers and developed workshops on phonics, classroom management, digital integration, and AI in education. He is passionate about making learning joyful, effective, and accessible for all.
Wayne Crandall
Professional Development Specialist
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Wayne Crandall has been in adult education for more than 20 years. He has taught both ABE/ASE and ESL classes, has been an AEL Program coordinator, and is an AEL Trainer.
He is currently a Field Professional Development Specialist with the TRAIN PD @TCALL, where he develops PD content, trains adult education teachers and assists Texas Adult Education programs with their professional development needs.
Rosa-Maria Crocker
CCALC Vice President; Adult Literacy and Plaza Comunitaria de Plano Programs Coordinator at MAS-Plano ISD
MAS-Plano ISD
Rosa Maria M. Crocker is the Coordinator for Adult Literacy and Plaza Comunitaria de Plano Programs at MAS-Plano ISD, Plano, Texas. She is coordinator and teacher for English as a Second Language for Teens, GED preparation (Spanish), Spanish as Second Language, and the Plaza Comunitaria of Plano (founded by her in 2004, and featured as the North Texas Model Plaza by the Mexican Consulate in Dallas).
She has been teaching and presenting in the US for the last 27+ years. At various times, she has taught classes in Parent Education, and Spanish for Educators. She also serves as official translator (in Spanish, Portuguese, or Italian) for Plano-ISD and teaches GED prep courses in English or Spanish at Collin College.
In addition, Rosa Maria is a rural engineer; she graduated with a BS in the College of Engineering at FIA/UNA, Paraguay, completed a year of master’s on Entomology at Texas A&M University, and currently is pursuing a master’s in education. She is a licensed Fine Arts instructor (Ateneo Arts Academy, Paraguay), certified Parent Educator from PPE, and certified Special Learning Needs Resource Specialist (Texas LEARNS, TAE), among other minor certificates.
Currently, she is VP of the Collin County Adult Literacy Council (CCALC). She has co-authored a technical book published by the UN, scientific articles, editorials, and more.
Alda Dobbs
Writer
Alda P. Dobbs
Alda P. Dobbs’ historical novel, Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna, delves into the mass migration of Mexicans into the U.S. that occurred during the Mexican Revolution (1913). The novel was nominated for the Texas Bluebonnet Master List Award and was named a Notable Book by the American Library Association.
Her second novel, The Other Side of the River, depicts the refugee crisis that parallels today’s plight. In both novels, inspired by the author’s great-grandmother, twelve-year-old Petra Luna struggles to survive the wrath of the Mexican Revolution. Her struggle for survival continues even after reaching the safety of the U.S. The books draw on the social divide and ethnic prejudice that ultimately led to the Mexican Revolution. Both works have been translated into Spanish by Penguin Random Books.
Alda lives outside of Houston, Texas with her husband and two children.
Natasha Duncan
Executive Director
East Texas Literacy Council
Natasha Duncan is the Executive Director for the East Texas Literacy Council in Longview Texas. Her background is in early child education from the University of Maryland. She has a passion for Adult Education in her community.
Natasha has 22 years in non-profit management, her extensive background of working in low-income communities helped her to focus her efforts on the lasting effects that education can have on families and the catalyst it can be for future generations. She is a proud wife, and mother of two Longview Lobos.
This year Natasha was featured as a Member in our community that makes a difference with Texas Bank and Trust, active community representation of adult education and nonprofit leadership with her Chamber of Commerce, she has enjoyed collaborating with Longview ISD and her city for speaking engagements, sits on several community boards in her city and has a passion for making a difference in her community.
Ana Frade
Projector Coordinator
Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy – HPL
Ana Frade works at The Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy as a Project Coordinator. She has over ten years of experience with the Houston Public Library (HPL) system, where she started as a technical instructor for the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program, a citywide initiative oriented to provide access to high-quality broadband service and learning and economic opportunities through the City’s Digital Inclusion Initiative Wireless Empowered Community Access Network (WeCAN.)
She is passionate about closing the digital divide to achieve a world in which all individuals have access to digital tools, devices, and skills training for the betterment of themselves and their communities.
In her past role as HPL International Services Engagement and Outreach coordinator, she successfully worked to establish sustained collaborations with community partners to implement programs and services for Houston’s international communities.
Ana was Spotlight Awardee of The Texas Library Association (Fall 2020) and received the Order of Civil Merit by the Government of Spain for her contribution to the community. She holds advanced degrees in Engineering, Business and Education, and is fluent in Spanish, English and Russian.
Heidi Frazier
Library & Community Services Manager
Harrie P. Woodson Memorial Library
Heidi Frazier serves as the Library & Community Services Manager at the Harrie P. Woodson Memorial Library in Caldwell, Texas. Her passion for books and literacy has been life long, studying liberal arts at Dickinson College and earning a master’s degree in Library Science from North Texas State University.
She educated all three of her children throughout high school. Once they were graduated from college, she began working with the City of Caldwell. The same love of books and literacy drove her to establish and develop an adult basic education program at the library. Working in close partnership with agencies, businesses, churches, nonprofits and volunteers, the library offers education opportunities for GED, ESL, Spanish, digital literacy, and citizenship, all at no cost to students.
The library offers the only adult education services in the county. The Harrie P. Woodson Memorial Library Adult Basic Education program is currently focusing on providing education and direction for disconnected youth.
Sarah Glazer
Clear Language Lab Senior Program Manager
Literacy Works
Featured Breakout Session Presenter
Plain Language for the Classroom
Creating Accessible Content for Our Neurodiverse World
Plain Language 101
Co-Designing With Learners
Sarah (she/her) is the Senior Program Manager for the Clear Language Lab at Literacy Works, a Chicago-based non-profit. In her role with Clear Language Lab, Sarah trains hundreds of professionals each year on plain language strategies to create materials their audience can easily use and understand.
Before joining Literacy Works, Sarah taught adult ESL and her experiences with adult learners informed how she thinks about communication. Through this work she hopes to challenge systemic injustice by making information accessible and usable for those who need it.
Robin Graybill
District Account Manager
Cambridge University Press
Robin Graybill has worked in ESL most of her adult life and loves it. She started her career tutoring Vietnamese and Hmong refugees in Sacramento which prompted her to get an MA TESOL from SFSU where she landed her first teaching job at the American Language Institute where she taught for three years.
When she relocated to Austin, TX, she taught ESL for seven years at Austin Community College before transitioning into educational publishing where she has worked as a Teacher Trainer, Market Researcher and Account Manager.
Robin loves working at Cambridge because it combines her loves of ESL, teaching, pedagogy, research and most importantly, helping people.
Jeannie Hale
Southwest Territory Account Representative
Essential Education
Jeannie Hale has over 20 years of experience in Adult Education, spanning classroom instruction to administrative leadership in both public and private sectors. As the former Director of Adult Education at Houston Community College, she managed a $4.2 million grant supporting workforce initiatives.
Now, as the Southwest Territory Representative for Essential Education, she partners with programs across Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, providing customized solutions to maximize student outcomes. Her deep understanding of program administration, budget alignment, and instructional needs allows her to support educators in achieving measurable success using Essential Education’s innovative resources.
Krystal Hills
Creative Genius
The Leadership Academy of Creative Arts
Krystal Hills is a bilingual educator, creative visionary, and lifelong advocate for learning. A proud Oak Cliff native and Skyline High School graduate, she earned a B.A. in Criminology with a minor in Spanish from the University of Texas at Arlington. Her studies took her to Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico, where she refined her Spanish fluency at La Universidad de Veracruzana.
Raised by community-driven parents—her mother, a social worker, and her father, a well-known DART driver—Krystal developed a deep passion for advocacy. While working in the Family Violence Division of the Dallas District Attorney’s Office, she realized her calling was bigger than the courtroom. She found creative fulfillment in fashion photography, with her work featured in Vogue, D Magazine, Observer, and Forbes, but even behind the camera, she was drawn to uplifting others beyond the lens.
Now, as an Instructional Specialist at Dallas College, she empowers adult learners to achieve their High School Equivalency certification. She also co-leads The Leadership Academy of Creative Arts (TLACA), a nonprofit founded by her sister, Dr. Jennifer Hills, that inspires growth through arts, leadership, and education.
Krystal believes exhortation is her superpower—a gift she will continue to share for as long as she walks this earth.
Matthew Johnston
ESL Support Coordinator
Literacy ConneXus
Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas, Texas. He has taught EFL in China and ESOL at colleges in Texas.
Currently, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with a nonprofit in Dallas, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus.
Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development, teaching diverse students, and fostering cross-cultural learning.
Janet Kay
Senior Educational Sales Consultant
National Geographic Learning
Janet Kay received her degree in education with a specialty in reading instruction from the University of Texas in Austin. She began her career as a classroom teacher and a skills specialist in the Aldine School District. She also worked as an independent consultant and created, marketed, and sold her very own educational game, The Math Pack Vocabulary Builder, to Texas school districts.
Janet has worked with schools and educators for over 25 years. She transitioned to the field of publishing in 1998 and her favorite role since is providing workshops, training, and support for ESL programs throughout the state.
Wendy Klatt
Education Specialist
Ellii
Wendy is an accomplished ESL educator with over 25 years of classroom experience. She holds an MA in Teaching from National-Louis University with a Graduate Concentration in ESL/Bilingual Education. In 2024, she also earned a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design from the University of Wisconsin–Stout.
Wendy’s teaching career spans diverse settings, including middle school, high school, community college, and community-based programs. Currently, she serves as Education Specialist at Ellii and as an ESL Content Specialist and Instructor for the District 113 Adult Education Program.
Beyond the classroom, Wendy is deeply committed to professional development and
teacher mentorship. She has worked as an educational consultant for Cambridge University Press and Assessment and now brings her expertise to the Ellii team.
Wendy focuses on building community within her learning environments, creating safe spaces that foster learner success. She is also dedicated to mentoring and training new teachers, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in effective ESL education.
Bhavani Kola
Dept. Chair Mathematics
Tarrant County College
Featured Breakout Session Presenter
AI Unleashed: Adventures for Literacy, Learning, and Life (2-part session)
From Prompts to Possibilities: Unleashing AI for Literacy and Learning
With over 24 years of experience in education and educational technology, Bhavani Kola is a dynamic keynote speaker, AI literacy advocate, and passionate educator. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Technology, Bhavani specializes in making advanced AI concepts, such as prompt engineering, accessible to educators, administrators, and non-technical professionals.
Through engaging presentations and interactive workshops, Bhavani empowers audiences to harness AI’s transformative potential in education and beyond. Known for her storytelling and innovative approaches, she simplifies complex topics to inspire practical application and drive meaningful change. Bhavani is certified in Deep Learning, Machine Learning, and Data Analytics, further demonstrating her commitment to advancing the integration of AI in education.
Clarena Larrotta
Professor
Texas State University
Dr. Clarena Larrotta is a full professor at Texas State University in the Adult, Professional, and Community Education program.
Larrotta seamlessly connects the realms of teaching, research, and service, collaborating with students and colleagues to address pressing social, civic, and ethical issues in the local community. Her goal is to build bridges connecting the university’s vast resources to the needs of adults, children, and families in the community, striving to create, support, and document positive change at both local and national levels.
Larrotta’s impactful work includes a recently published book on English literacy educators working with refugee families: An intercultural approach to adult education.
She has authored four other books, numerous book chapters, and has published research articles in prestigious journals, including Adult Learning, The Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy, and The International Journal of Literacy, Language, and Numeracy (ALE).
Ryan Lett
Program Coordinator
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Ryan is an enthusiastic and innovative program leader specializing in adult education, digital literacy, and workforce development. She has excelled in roles such as Associate Director of Education and Training, Adult Education Specialist, and now a Program Coordinator with TCALL at Texas A&M.
In her current role, she designs and delivers training programs that empower educators to integrate digital literacy into their instruction while fostering digital resilience among adult learners.
Ryan thrives on creating engaging, technology-driven learning experiences that bridge skill gaps and enhance accessibility. She is dedicated to equipping educators and learners with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly digital world—always with a smile and a can-do attitude.
Martin Loa
Senior Customer Manager
BurlingtonEnglish
Martin Loa is Senior Customer Manager for Burlington English. He has served in that capacity for the past 6 years. He utilizes his 20 plus years of adult education experience to assist programs with implementation of ESL curriculum to better meet the needs of their specific populations. His formal education in curriculum instruction enables him to develop and implement targeted trainings to address best practices.
Martin has served as a consultant delivering evidence-based and research-based training for the state professional development grantee for the last 7 years. His expertise includes ESL, Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, ABE, IETs, and Literacy Organization-specific topics. Martin has over 15 years of experience presenting at local, state, and national conferences.
Heather McKnight
Dean, College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services
Texas A&M University-Texarkana
Dr. Heather McKnight, DNP, RN, NE-BC is the Founding Dean for the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, with responsibility for a variety of academic programs such as nursing, kinesiology, social work, healthcare administration, among others in development. Dr. McKnight also leads program/curriculum development, recruitment/retention, and innovation for the College.
Dr. McKnight has over 20 years of experience in nursing; including education, acute care services, The Joint Commission Stroke program development, and Magnet® program development, among others. Program development, evaluation, and continuous improvement have been major areas of career focus for the last 16 years in both the acute care setting as well as academia.
Dr. McKnight is committed to increasing health literacy to assist with improving health outcomes. She has seen firsthand the importance of health literacy working in both the healthcare practice setting and in academia.
Dr. McKnight is a member of several professional and community organizations including the American Nurses’ Association, Texas Nurses’ Association, CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System Leadership Council, Women for A&M-Texarkana, among others, and has served as the committee member of the ANA Issues panel for #EndNurseAbuse.
Dr. McKnight received her BS in Psychology and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Southern Arkansas University. She also earned her Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Management and her Doctor of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Organizational and Systems Leadership from Walden University. Dr. McKnight is also certified as a Nurse Executive by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Julio Medina
Academic Advisor III
West Texas A&M University
Featured Breakout Session Presenter
Standards in Action: Cultivating a Language and Content Focus for English Learners
From Chalkboards to Chatbots: AI Tools for Adult Literacy Educators
Julio A. Medina is an experienced professional in adult education, workforce development, curriculum development, and instructional design with over a decade of experience. Currently an Academic Advisor III at West Texas A&M University, he specializes in creating accessible learning pathways, aligning education with workforce needs, and fostering student success.
Julio has served in various roles, including Career Pathways Specialist, Career Counseling and Skill Development Manager, where he developed expertise in curriculum development, professional training, and community partnerships. Passionate about supporting diverse populations, he has worked extensively with justice-involved individuals, English language learners, and rural communities.
With a Project Management Certificate from Google and fluency in both English and Spanish, Julio holds a BA in Psychology from Texas Tech University and is pursuing an MBA at West Texas A&M University. A passionate advocate for education, he is actively involved in his community, supporting underserved populations and promoting access to resources that empower individuals.
Lester Meriwether
Executive Director
Literacy ConneXus
Lester Meriwether has served as the Executive Director of Literacy Connexus for the past 21 years. Before that he served with two other nonprofits and directed a literacy center at Baylor University.
Lester and wife Donna live in Fort Worth and enjoy spending time with their three daughters and five grandchildren. They have lived in Fort Worth since 1982. Lester teaches Sunday school at Broadway Baptist Church and would love for you to join him serving at the church’s Agape Meal on Thursday evenings for persons experiencing homelessness.
Serving on the board of Literacy Texas was a delight for Lester who has enjoyed friendships with persons across the State – especially at the annual Literacy Texas Conference.
Lester is retiring at the end of this year. So he’s been thinking a lot about succession planning.
Chris Miller
National Consultant
Aztec
Ms. Miller worked for over 30 years in adult education and managed a comprehensive adult education program serving over 2,000 students annually and served on the state level for a time developing and implementing state-wide professional development programs.
Currently, she works as a national consultant for Aztec providing training workshops, conducting national webinars, and presenting at state and national conferences.
AnneMarie Molinari-Sanders
Manager of Disability Services
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Ms. AnneMarie Molinari-Sanders is the Manager of Disability Services and a Professional Development Specialist for TRAIN PD @TCALL, Texas A&M University.
For twenty-four years, AnneMarie has supported students and instructors within the context of AEL instruction, curriculum development, and professional development training. Nationally, Ms. Molinari-Sanders served on the Learning Disabilities Association of America’s Adult Topics Committee for five years as an advocate for adults with learning disabilities.
AnneMarie is a certified Digital Accessibility Specialist through the Texas Distance Learning Association. Ms. Molinari-Sanders holds a master’s degree in special education and draws on her experience as an adult education and literacy and special education teacher to empower and inspire instructors to support students with special learning needs! She is also driven to educate her colleagues on the importance of creating and using accessible digital content and materials, so all persons can access the material equally.
Rachel Muir
Fundraiser & Thought Leader
RachelMuir.com
Pre-Conference Breakout Session Presenter
Get Your Board on Board: How to Build the Board of Your Dreams (and get them fundraising)
Rachel Muir has worked every side of the Rubik’s cube that is the nonprofit sector. When she was just 26 years old, Rachel launched Girlstart, a non-profit organization to empower girls in math, science, engineering, and technology in the living room of her apartment with $500 and a credit card. Several years later she had raised over 10 million dollars and was featured on Oprah, CNN, and the Today show.
A winner of Oprah Winfrey’s Use Your Life award, Rachel is a three-time finalist for Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, was named “Outstanding Fundraising Executive of the Year” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and one of Fast Company Magazines “Fast 50″ Champions of Innovation. Rachel has been featured in the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Fundraising Success, Fast Company, Glamour, and Texas Monthly. Her career spans leading an online fundraising consulting practice and managing major gift portfolios for some of the country’s largest and most successful nonprofit brands.
Rachel is a sought-after speaker, trainer and internationally recognized nonprofit founder and thought leader.
Sebastian Ramos
Director of Training
National Runaway Safeline
Featured Breakout Session Presenter
Standards in Action: Cultivating a Language and Content Focus for English Learners
From Chalkboards to Chatbots: AI Tools for Adult Literacy Educators
Sebastian Ramos is a dedicated professional with over 17 years of experience in training, program development, and professional growth. He has worked extensively with individuals across diverse backgrounds, focusing on trauma, mental health, and workforce development. As a National Director of Training, Sebastian is passionate about creating impactful programs that empower individuals and organizations. His expertise lies in fostering resilience, enhancing professional competencies, and driving meaningful change through evidence-based practices and innovative approaches.
Rina Renteria
DEPDC Manager
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Rina Renteria is a passionate advocate for bringing technology into adult education. As the Manager at the Distance Education Professional Development Center (DEPSC), Rina helps educators explore new tools to enhance their teaching.
Always eager to learn new things, she enjoys reading and taking long walks when she not at work. Rina is excited to share how generative AI can empower educators and students, helping them navigate the digital world while fostering critical thinking and creativity in the classroom.
Sarah Richardson
Executive Director
Literacy Council of the Ouachitas
Sarah Richardson has served as the executive director of the Literacy Council of the Ouachitas since July 2020. During that time the council has increased its impact over 400%.
Sarah has an undergraduate degree in early childhood and special education, and a master’s degree in educational leadership. She is currently a PhD Candidate in Change Leadership at The University of Central Arkansas. She is passionate about supporting life long learning and collaborative efforts to bring about effective change.
In her free time she enjoys gardening, kayaking, hiking, and traveling with her family.
Karla Rodriguez
Curriculum Coordinator
CONTENTBYK
Karla Rodriguez attended the University of Texas Pan American, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Wanting to make a difference in the field of education and in the community, Karla continued her studies and obtained a Master’s in Business Administration from UTRGV as well as completed her Principalship Certification.
Throughout her 12 years of service in education, Karla has held various leadership roles that
showcase her commitment to student and community success. Karla has served as a Teacher, Instructional Coach, and Assistant Principal. She currently serves as a District Reading Language Arts Curriculum Coordinator.
Her impact in education has been recognized at the District level by receiving the leadership “Building Capacity Award”, highlighting her ability to empower and develop the potential of those around her.
In addition to her professional and community involvement, Karla is a content creator. Through her online platform, CONTENTBYK, she shares insights, experiences, and captivating visuals that provide readers with valuable takeaways. Her content not only reflects her passion for education but also serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to explore the world of learning and personal growth.
Dr. Glenda Rose
Director of TCALL
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Dr. Glenda Rose is the Director of the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning, TCALL, at Texas A&M University, which provides professional development for adult educators in the state of Texas.
Driven by a lifelong passion for education, Dr. Rose began her adult education career in 1985 as a volunteer tutor, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of literacy. Her dedication to empowering adult learners has led to significant contributions to the field, including the TESOL publication Teaching Adults English in the Digital World (2015), a reflection on distance education for adult English language learners, and the development of an innovative digital literacy curriculum in 2023, DART: Digital Access and Resilience in Texas, a digital literacy curriculum for English language learners with low levels of English proficiency, with her colleagues Anson Green and Dr. Denise Guckert. She can be reached at Glenda.Rose@tamu.edu.
Michael Saenz
Adult Education Specialist
Education Service Center Region 19
Featured Breakout Session Presenter
Standards in Action: Cultivating a Language and Content Focus for English Learners
From Chalkboards to Chatbots: AI Tools for Adult Literacy Educators
Michael Saenz has been dedicated to Adult Education for nearly 20 years, with experience teaching a variety of subjects, including all levels of ESL, Career and College Exploration, English and Spanish HSE, and Computer Literacy. He has contributed to the Career Pathways Professional Development Center and currently serves as an Adult Education Specialist with Education Service Center Region 19 in El Paso, Texas. His extensive background in adult learning and professional development makes him a valuable resource for both educators and students.
Magda Salazar
Hispanic Communicators DFW
Magda Salazar is a product management, journalism and communications, and event management professional with career experiences working for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Israel Ministry of Tourism, NBA All-Star Jam Session, and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Currently, she is serving as president of Hispanic Communicators DFW, a chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, and on the Literacy Texas Board.
Magda’s passion for literacy efforts is a result of her own experience growing up along the Texas border in El Paso and access to programs that supported reading development. Magda is a product of the Head Start program, and in school, she competed in poetry, prose, and debate.
For Magda, collaborating on literacy efforts is fundamental to improving access and creating opportunities for communities of color and underrepresented communities.
Lara Speights
Vice President for Family Support and Adult Literacy
Neuhaus Education Center
Literacy for All: Structured Reading and Spelling (2-part session)
Lara Speights, M.Ed., LDT, CALT is a dedicated literacy advocate and researcher who is passionate about creating systems that connect individuals and families to evidence-based literacy experiences.
Her expertise lies in dyslexia therapy, with a particular focus on working with emerging bilinguals, adults (16+), and individuals with low literacy. She is also highly knowledgeable in family literacy engagement across generations.
At Neuhaus Education Center, Lara is the Vice President of Family Support and Adult Literacy, where she oversees the Community Programs, which provide free services to the Greater Houston Area. Her role includes leading the Margaret H. Ley Adult Literacy program, which offers virtual and in-person evening literacy classes for adult learners (16+) with dyslexia and related reading difficulties.
Additionally, she directs the Family Support Office, which not only delivers community presentations on reading-related topics but also responds to numerous calls annually from family members seeking information and resources to support their children struggling with reading.
Prior to joining Neuhaus, she brings over a decade of experience as a teacher, dyslexia therapist, EB program coordinator, and instructional coach in public schools across Texas, with specific experience collaborating with families to advocate for students in special populations such as emerging bilinguals and students with learning disabilities.
Speights earned an M.Ed. in Language and Literacy from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education and a B.A. in Spanish and English from Texas A&M University, where she is also currently a doctoral student in Curriculum and Instruction.
Lisa Stewart, MBA, CAE
CEO
Literacy Coalition of Central Texas
Lisa M. Stewart, MBA, CAE, is the Literacy Coalition of Central Texas’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Literacy Coalition provides adult basic education, high school equivalency certification, career readiness, job training, parenting, and school readiness services to adults and families in Central Texas. Stewart grew up in Pasadena, Texas, and moved to Central Texas in 2018 after working thirteen years in Washington, DC. As a lifelong learner and avid reader, Stewart is passionate about literacy and education.
Stewart’s role today elevates her passion for literacy and education by helping the Central Texas community grow, thrive, and achieve livable employment. Since taking her role, Stewart has led the organization through transition and structural changes related to funding and services. Under her leadership, the organization transitioned into a community-based service model, increased funding with state, city, and foundation partners, and remodeled the curriculum to meet the challenges of today’s adult students. Stewart has also implemented an organizational strategic plan and rebranded the Literacy Coalition of Central Texas.
Before becoming CEO of the Literacy Coalition, Stewart served as its Chief Financial Officer. Her professional experience in nonprofits spans over twenty years, during which she served in leadership roles improving organizations’ financial and operational viability. In Central Texas, she held leadership positions at Connections Family and Individual Services and Providence Place, leading to financial management improvements and healthier cash flows. Stewart was also the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer for the Institute for Higher Education Policy in Washington, DC. In her career, Lisa M. Stewart earned recognition as a Non-Profit Finance Leader and was awarded CFO of the Year Rising Star for the Greater Washington, DC Area.
Stewart is a member of the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE), the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), and the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE), and she sits on the board of Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA).
In addition to being a CEO, Stewart is also a Concierge Captain at the Brauntex Performing Arts Theater in New Braunfels. She is a member of the Writers’ League of Texas and the International Thriller Writers Association, and she loves traveling and spending time with her dog, Toby.
Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker
Executive Director
Literacy Texas
Pre-Conference Breakout Session Presenter
Guests of Honor: Putting Students at the Very Heart of Your Programs
Keighty Ward
Community Literacy Program Director
Literacy Works
Featured Breakout Session Presenter
Building a Reflective Teaching Practice
Welcoming Emergent Literacy Learners to Your Program
Co-Designing With Learners
Keighty (they/them) began their work as an educational ASL interpreter and quickly became interested in the teaching they were interpreting. They taught English as a Second Language for three years, while pursuing their M.A in Applied Linguistics. Their thesis focused on d/Deaf adult English learners, which led them to become interested in adult education specifically.
They spent many years teaching ESL and Citizenship before transitioning to Literacy Works where they support community literacy educators. They have presented at several conferences on various topics including, adult education, inclusive teaching and learning, and popular education. Through their work they hope to help make education accessible and equal for all who seek it.
In their spare time, Keighty loves to grow vegetables, practice art making, or watch their cats run around in the yard.
Katie Welch
Director of English Language Institute
University of Texas at Arlington
Katie Welch, Ph.D., is a university instructor, program director, teacher trainer, and active volunteer in adult education classrooms. She currently serves as the Interim Director of the English Language Institute and as a professor of TESOL at the University of Texas at Arlington.
Katie provides professional development for ESL teachers through partnerships with Cambridge University Press, Literacy ConneXus, and the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (T-CALL). She has also made significant contributions to the DFW-area TESOL community, having served as both President and Treasurer of TexTESOLV.
Recently, Katie was named TexTESOLer of the Year for 2024.
Dr. Harry Wilson
Executive Director
HOPE Literacy
Harry Wilson is the cofounder and Executive Director of HOPE Literacy, a nonprofit which “Helps Other People Excel in life by sharing the gospel through English language and literacy instruction.”
He began teaching ESL for a class of Sudanese refugees in 1995. HOPE Literacy was founded in 1997 and is now a family of 20 HOPE programs, mostly in the DFW area.
For the past 25 years Harry has helped churches start, maintain and grow ESL ministries. Harry is married to Cyndi and is the father of 7 children. He has a Masters and PhD from Southwestern Seminary.
Gareth Wingfield
Project Coordinator
Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
Gareth Wingfield has worked in adult education almost his entire life, starting first as a volunteer before entering the field professionally in 2007. He has more than 18 years of experience as a HSE and ESOL instructor, with special interest in math instruction.
He served as the Distance Learning Coordinator for the Literacy Council of Tyler, and now serves as a project coordinator for the Distance Education Professional Development Center.
Ashly Winkle
Manager of Distance Education PD Center
TCALL
Ashly Winkle is the Associate Director of TCALL’s Distance Education PD Center and LINCS Technology Moderator. With a passion for adult education, she’s a tech-savvy Journeyman 2 Technology Coach and HSE Teacher.
Ashly has excelled in roles such as the Distance Learning Director, Professional Development Coordinator, Trainer, and Project Manager. In 2021, she managed the groundbreaking Distance Education Call Center, offering tech support for Texas adult educators and students.
Her dual M.S. degrees in Teaching & Learning (Teaching Leadership) and Business Management (Online Education) reflect her dedication to enhancing adult education through technology.
Chasity Wright
Assessment Solutions Representative
DRC
Chasity Wright is a native of Ohio with a background in special education. Chasity has worked in many capacities including reporting, sales, leadership, and program management prior to joining Data Recognition Corporation in 2013.
She holds a degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the State University of New York at New Paltz. As an Assessment Solutions Consultant, Chasity works with Adult Education programs across the country to develop assessment plans for adult learners as well as trains educators on assessment best practices.
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