About
Hi! I'm Keith and I would love to be your public speaking tutor. But first, let me tell you a little about myself. I was born in Iowa, but currently reside in Texas. I am married to a now retired Pres... byterian minister. She is my heart. And along with her, I am the proud papa of a basenji mix named Ava.
I've been an advocate, a student organizer, an trainer for student organizers, a librarian, a debate coach, a published author (well, one really good short story), and an adjunct instructor of speech. By the way, my speech team students qualified for nationals both years I actively coached. I've had a very round about educational history from struggling at the University of Iowa right after high school to graduating with a 4.0 from Eastern Michigan University and well-deserved Master's degree in communication. I've had the ups and downs so I can relate when you have yours.
My tutoring approach is based on conversation, the base form of public speaking. I want you to be comfortable talking, especially about the things that matter to you.It's a matter of perspective, an I am very good at helping you find yours. My students at Tarrant County College will attest to it.
One of the best things about working with me is that I also have a program, developed with the help of one my students, called 90 Seconds to Make a Point. It is a highly customizable speech prompt generator that can be used to target particular subjects (such as your class assignment). It is a timed exercise that trains you to be concise, be cognizant of your audience, and above all, to clearly make your point. It's fun, shows your creativity, and boosts your confidence. It helps you develop good habits in your communication.
When you work with me, I invest in you. I want you to succeed. Period. So, try me. Let's see just how far I can take you.read more
Education
Eastern Michigan University
Master of Arts, Communication
2016 - 2018
University of Texas at Arlington
Bachelo of Science, University Studies , Concentration in Communication, Sociology, & Political Science
2009 - 2011
Tarrant County College
Associate of Arts, General Studies in Liberal Arts
2007 - 2009
Experience
Adjunct Instructor of Speech
Tarrant County College
Aug 2019 - Jun 2023
Instructor of record for Introduction to Speech Communication and Public Speaking courses; developed... lesson plans and other instructional materials; Provided assessment and support for students in-person and virtually; responsible for grading, attendance taking, and reporting using Blackboard, Web Advisor, and Canvas LMS; Created 90 Seconds To Make A Point speech activity concept.read more
Librarian
St. Philip's School & Community Center
Sep 2018 - Jul 2020
Responsible for library resource services to students and staff; developed The Griot's Garden librar... y newsletter; advocated for revamping library collection to a newer and more culturally relevant collection.read more
Extended Day Academy Assistant
HEBISD/Harrison Lane Elementary School
Sep 2018 - May 2019
Assisted students with homework and structured activities; assisted with preparation of activities.
At-Risk Literacy Specialist/Media Center
Ypsilanti Community Middle School
Sep 2016 - Jun 2018
Responsible for library resource services to students and staff; developed an at-risk reading progra... m; cataloged and sorted curriculum materials; prepared library for transition to smaller space in new location; contributed to district Literacy newsletter, Off-The-Shelf; occasional Media Center representative and photographer for school field trips.read more
Instructional Assistant (Speech)/Debate Coach
Tarrant County College, NE Campus
Aug 2013 - Aug 2016
Provided instruction, coaching, and technical assistance for the competitive forensics program; assi... sted students and faculty with resources in the Communications Lab.read more
Extended Day Academy Assistant
HEBISD/Harrison Lane Elementary School
Nov 2012 - May 2016
Assisted students with homework and structured activities; assisted with preparation of activities.
Driver
Ace Non-Emergency Transport
Nov 2009 - Aug 2012
Provided transportation by van for wheelchair bound persons to and from medical and personal appoint... ments; Hospital discharges; Transfers to rehabilitation facilities.read more
Interim Youth Director
Emmanue. Presbyterian Church, PCUSA
Nov 2007 - Aug 2009
Planned and coordinated activities for Junior and Senior High youth; Coordinated vespers for 2009 mi... ssion trip to Port Arthur, TX.read more