My Story

I’ve spent the last two decades helping students discover their voices, sharpen their thinking, and pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. My background spans 20 years as a debate and public speaking educator in Texas and on the national circuit, where I’ve coached students to major titles including the 2025 MBA Champion, the 2024 TFA State IX Champion, the 2019 NSDA Champion, eight UIL State Championships, and finals appearances at Harvard, Berkeley, Yale, UT, Stanford, and dozens of national and state tournaments. Those accomplishments matter, but what really shapes my work is the process behind them - teaching students how to think critically, research deeply, write with intention, and communicate with confidence.

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Alongside competitive coaching, I’ve guided hundreds of students through academic planning, college admissions, scholarship applications, and interview preparation. Years of teaching advanced research, writing, government, and communication courses have given me a clear understanding of what colleges look for and how students can present their best selves. I’ve seen how the skills built through extemporaneous speaking—clarity, adaptability, and informed decision-making—translate directly into every part of life, especially the college process.

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Today, I bring all of that experience into my work with Illuminate Ventures. Whether a student needs strategic coaching, admissions guidance, or help finding the right path, I focus on providing clarity, structure, and genuine support. My goal is simple: help each student step forward with confidence and a strong sense of who they are and what they can achieve.