TESSTalk Series
In May 2020 the ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ Office of Alumni Engagement launched the TESSTalk Series, a speaker series featuring ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ 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 ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ 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
Founder and Head Creative Chef, Soulgood
Cynthia Nevels ’96, owner of the Dallas-based organic vegan fast-food company Soulgood, discussed her journey at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ and as an entrepreneur.
Retired NASA engineer, American Redcross volunteer
Dr. Anngienetta Johnson ’71 discussed her time at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ, career with NASA and volunteer work with the American Red Cross.
Nutrition and Performance Research Manager, GU Energy Labs
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ alumna Roxanne Gonzales-Vogel '17 shared how non-conventional choices led to her dream job and summiting the world's highest mountains.
Scenic Painter
Christina Williams ’06, ’08 shared how ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ impacted her professional journey and the "mental tool kit" that helped her to persevere.
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 ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ.
Psynet Group
Drs. David and Jody Popple discussed organizational development trends and structures for positive results in any economic climate.
President, Mott Community College
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ alumna Beverly Walker-Griffea, PhD ’04 shared her truths and the stories that defined her professional journey in higher education.
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ alumni Shakar Soltani ’17 and Quitney Pryor ’14 discussed the importance of diversity and representation in the workplace.
Chancellor & President
Texas Woman's Univeristy
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ's Chancellor Carine M. Feyten, PhD, discussed the "State of the University" and changes made to enhance safety during the pandemic.
Founder & CEO,
BuzzBallz/Southern Champion
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ alumna and entrepreneur Merrilee Kick ’09 shared how she built her company from scratch and gave a master class in building your brand.
RN Service Manager, Emergency Department
Parkland Memorial Hospital
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ alumnus Henry Biddle ’80 discussed his time at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ and his time in the USAF Nurse Corps, the DEA and as an emergency medical worker.
Nutrition Communications Consultant in Dallas, TX
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ alumna and registered dietitian Neva Cochran ’78 shared her advice on nutritious eating during the pandemic.
Page last updated 3:59 PM, October 21, 2025