TESSTalk Series

In May 2020 the TWU Office of Alumni Engagement launched the TESSTalk Series, a speaker series featuring TWU alumni, faculty and staff who will share their perspective on leadership, professional journeys and personal adventures. This program is named in honor of the former nickname of TWU students—Tessie.

Interested in being considered as a speaker for one of our future TESSTalks?

Upcoming

Elisa De La Rosa
Feb. 28, 2023, at 6 p.m. CT

Save the date for our next TESSTalk with Elisa De La Rosa ’06.

Details and registration coming soon.

Past Speakers

Cynthia Nevels ’96

Founder and Head Creative Chef, Soulgood

Cynthia Nevels ’96, owner of the Dallas-based organic vegan fast-food company Soulgood, discussed her journey at TWU and as an entrepreneur.

Anngienetta Johnson, DSc, ’71

Retired NASA engineer, American Redcross volunteer

Dr. Anngienetta Johnson ’71 discussed her time at TWU, career with NASA and volunteer work with the American Red Cross.

Roxanne Gonzales-Vogel ’17

Nutrition and Performance Research Manager, GU Energy Labs

TWU alumna Roxanne Gonzales-Vogel '17 shared how non-conventional choices led to her dream job and summiting the world's highest mountains.

Christina Williams ’16

Scenic Painter

Christina Williams ’06, ’08 shared how TWU impacted her professional journey and the "mental tool kit" that helped her to persevere.

Luis G. Rendon ’10

New York Post

Luis Rendon ’10 shared his journey into the professional world of media and journalism and reflects on his time as a male student at TWU.

Drs. David Popple ’01, ’04 and Jody Popple ’01, ’03

Psynet Group

Drs. David and Jody Popple discussed organizational development trends and structures for positive results in any economic climate.

Beverly Walker-Griffea ’04

President, Mott Community College

TWU alumna Beverly Walker-Griffea, PhD ’04 shared her truths and the stories that defined her professional journey in higher education.

Shakar Soltani ’17 & Quitney Pryor ’14

TWU alumni Shakar Soltani ’17 and Quitney Pryor ’14 discussed the importance of diversity and representation in the workplace.

Carine M. Feyten, PhD

Chancellor & President Texas Woman's Univeristy

TWU's Chancellor Carine M. Feyten, PhD, discussed the "State of the University" and changes made to enhance safety during the pandemic.

Merrilee Kick

Founder & CEO, BuzzBallz/Southern Champion

TWU alumna and entrepreneur Merrilee Kick ’09 shared how she built her company from scratch and gave a master class in building your brand.

Henry Biddle, RN

RN Service Manager, Emergency Department Parkland Memorial Hospital

TWU alumnus Henry Biddle ’80 discussed his time at TWU and his time in the USAF Nurse Corps, the DEA and as an emergency medical worker.

Neva Cochran, MS, RDN, LD, FAND

Nutrition Communications Consultant in Dallas, TX

TWU alumna and registered dietitian Neva Cochran ’78 shared her advice on nutritious eating during the pandemic.

Page last updated 4:59 PM, December 14, 2022