LSC-Tomball Campus

GRIT Innovation Symposium

Generation NEXT: Unlock Innovation through Intergenerational Synergy

GRIT Innovation Symposium is back and better than ever! This year, GRIT Summit will partner with Innovation Symposium to deliver an experience that will inspire and impact generations! Reserve your seat.

Friday, February 21, 2025, 11:30 am - 3:30 pm

Beckendorf Conference Center

Join our presenters as they share their experiences with you for a day filled with fun, learning, and personal growth! Choose the learning track that interests you.

Interested in being a presenter at the LSC Tomball GRIT Innovation Symposium? As a presenter, take participants on a journey about fostering collaboration and knowledge exchanges between different generations, examining the role of perseverance and resilience, and adapting higher education curricula and teaching methodologies to prepare students for the rapidly changing job market.

Grit Innovation Symposium promo video on YouTube.

Track One: Bridging the Gap
Explore strategies for fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange between different generations in academic and professional settings.

Track Two: Grit in the Digital Age
Examine the role of perseverance and resilience in today's rapidly evolving educational and professional landscapes.

Track Three: Future-Proofing Education
Adapt higher education curricula and teaching methodologies to prepare students for the rapidly changing job market.

Agenda

Time	Session	Presenter	Room
10:45 - 11:25 am	Check -In		Beckendorf Conference Center
11:30 - 12:30 am	Welcome and Keynote Speaker	Dr. Kasonde Musoma	Beckendorf Conference Center
12:45 - 1:45 pm	Lunch Panel Discussion	Moderator: Barry Horn Panelists: Miara Shaw, Kayla Almaguer, Bob Thompson, and Isabella Sanchez	Beckendorf Conference Center
Time	Breakout Session 1	Presenter	Room
1:50 - 2:35 pm	Track One: Bridging the Gap Supporting STEM through Science First Center	Lizbeth B. Gonzalez, and Kristie Bradford	E252
1:50 - 2:35 pm	Track Two: Grit in the Digital Age Belonging work is GRITTY work	Dr. Tristan Fernandez-Cablay, Rene Arnold, and Chris Tkach	S155
1:50 - 2:35 pm	Track Two: Grit in the Digital Age Resilient Learners, Future Leaders: Succeeding in a Digital Age	The Timberwolf Leaders	S157
1:50 - 2:35 pm	Track Three: Future-Proofing Education Future-Proofing Assignments: Chatbots as Educational Tools for Lifelong Learning	Tim Mousel	E205
Time	Breakout Session 2	Presenter	Room
2:45 - 3:30 pm	Track One: Bridging the Gap Innovation in Communication: The Evolution of Language and Communication Through the Changing Cultures	Kenneth Garcia	S155
2:45 - 3:30 pm	Track One: Bridging the Gap Growing in Circles: Using Modified Literature Circles with Adult Learners for Professional Development in Community College	Dr. James Stancil	S157
2:45 - 3:30 pm	Track Two: Grit in the Digital Age Being Ready for the Next Opportunity After Experiencing Rejection	Kelvin L Weathers	E205
2:45 - 3:30 pm	Track Three: Future-Proofing Education Lost In Translation: Reconnecting To Our Mission	Anthony Froelich	E252
3:35 - 3:45 pm	Raffle/Giveaway/Closing Remarks		Beckendorf Conference Center

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Kasonde Musoma

The picture of Dr. Kasonde Musoma. Dr. Kasonde Musoma gained global recognition when a video of him babysitting a student's 10-month-old son while teaching went viral, earning him the title "Professor of Kindness" and an appearance on the Ellen Show. Born in Zambia, where kindness was a core cultural value, Dr. Musoma brought these values to the United States. In 2017, Texas A&M University recognized him as the face of their "Leadership" value for his positive impact on students and society.Dr. Musoma holds a Doctorate in Education, Leadership, and Administration and is an award-winning educator with experience at Texas A&M and Texas Christian University. Currently, he is the Director of Leadership and Character Formation at Tec de Monterrey University in Mexico. He teaches various subjects, including Business Ethics and Ethical Decision Making, and is known for leadership development programs with international immersions.A sought-after international keynote speaker, Dr. Musoma addresses topics like Kindness, Ubuntu (Humanity), Ethics, Conscious Leadership, and Cultural Diversity. He has served on several advisory boards and is currently a board member of the Voom Foundation. A father of four, Dr. Musoma enjoys nature, reading, music, and traveling.

Panelist: Miara Shaw

The picture of Miara Shaw. Meet Miara Shaw, also known as "Maven Miara"—a life and business strategist, leadership facilitator, speaker, podcaster, and author dedicated to empowering leaders and fostering sustainable success. Miara’s journey from a high-stakes role as an energy trader in the oil and gas industry to a sought-after leadership strategist highlights her passion for guiding executive leaders, business founders, and high school and college students toward impactful and balanced leadership.

Through her podcast, Leadership Wellness Circle, Miara shares insights on leadership confidence, work-life integration, wellness refuge, and business growth, helping listeners achieve sustainable success that harmonizes professional ambition with personal well-being. Connecting with Miara offers a transformative experience, equipping individuals and organizations with the tools to lead with intention, resilience, and fulfillment.

Panelist: Kayla Almaguer

The picture of Kayla Almaguer. Kayla Almaguer serves in the Department of Development at Lone Star College, using a design-with-people-in-mind approach to create innovative, system-wide solutions. An Assistant Professor and former AI Faculty Fellow, she spearheaded the system’s first Generative AI certification program. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Kayla combines empathy and innovation to encourage authentic learning and meaningful connections.

Panelist: Bob Thompson

Bob Thompson serves as Dean of Student Advancement at Tomball ISD, bringing over three decades in education. Prior to joining TISD in 2017, he held various roles at Spring ISD since 1990, from teaching to administration. At SISD, he developed innovative programs including an early college high school and the nationally recognized Carl Wunsche Sr. High School. As Tomball Connections Academy principal, he managed multiple programs including alternative education. Currently, he focuses on Career and Technical Education initiatives and collaborating with LSC-Tomball in designing a P-TECH program. A Houston resident since 1970, Bob holds degrees from multiple Texas universities and lives with his wife Lauren, also a district administrator, with two children attending high schools within the TISD.

Panelist: Isabella Sanchez

Isabella Sanchez graduated in 2023 from Waller High School. She began her journey with Lone Star College in the fall of 2023. Currently, she is one of the student leaders of the TRIO SSS program at LSC-Tomball. In May, Isabella will be graduating with an Associate's degree in Science. In the fall, she plans to continue her education by pursuing the Nursing program at Lone Star College. During her time at LSC she has hosted leadership sessions for TRIO professional staff, implemented peer mentor activities for other students, and served on a panel for the system-wide Teaching and Learning Conference. Once Isabella completes her educational goals, she plans to be a Registered Nurse at one of the Houston Methodist Hospitals.

Moderator: Barry Horn

The picture of Barry Horn, Jr. Barry Horn, Jr. currently serves as the Manager of Organizational Development at Lone Star College-System Office in The Woodlands. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Texas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Counseling and Development from Lamar University. In his role, Barry strategically fosters a positive learning culture among staff, faculty, and students. His expertise includes CliftonStrengths® facilitation, Emotional Intelligence 2.0 certification, and coordinating impactful programs such as the Mentoring Program at LSC-Houston North and the Academic Success Program for students on academic probation and suspension at LSC-North Harris. Additionally, as an LPC-A, he leverages his counseling expertise to promote well-being and self-care among LSC employees.

Breakout Session Information

Breakout Session 1

Speaker/Bio

Session Information

Lizbeth B. Gonzalez and Kristie Bradford
The pcitures of Kristie Bradford and Lizbeth B. Garza.
Kristie Bradford and Lizbeth B. Garza bring decades of experience as STEM educators dedicated to innovative teaching and fostering science identity. From geoscience to engineering, they empower students with academic support, sustainability practices, and STEM-focused resources at the Sci Fi Center, preparing learners for thriving careers in a rapidly evolving world.

Back to Agenda

1:50pm, E252
Supporting STEM through Science First Center:
The Science First Center will demonstrate how hands-on activities in Biology, Chemistry, and Geology can transform perceptions and support STEM identity, particularly for first-generation students. Through experiential learning, participants will engage in practical activities highlighting the importance of perseverance and resilience in STEM fields, enabling them to connect to career paths.

Tim Mousel
The picture of Tim Mousel.

Having taught in higher education since 1993, Tim Mousel is currently a full-time faculty member in the Kinesiology department at LSC-Online and the Department Chair of Chemistry, Kinesiology, and Physics. Tim's insights on the impact of generative AI in higher education have been featured twice in Forbes magazine. Harvard University has also recognized his innovative approach, publishing his work in the Harvard AI Pedagogy Project.

Back to Agenda

1:50pm, E205
Future-Proofing Assignments: Chatbots as Educational Tools for Lifelong Learning:
This session explores the transformative role of chatbots in modern education and provides ideas for integrating AI-driven tools into assignment development. It will demonstrate how chatbots can enhance student engagement, deliver instant feedback, and support skill-building across various disciplines. Participants will examine real-world examples and discover methods to create assignments that utilize chatbot technology.

Dr. Tristan Fernandez-Cablay
The picture of Dr. Tristan Fernandez-Cablay.

Tristan serves Lone Star College as the Director of Faculty Development for Organizational Development (OD). She works on projects and programs supporting faculty professional learning and skill development. Tristan holds a doctorate in Higher Education. She is passionate about the student experience and developing opportunities to support the underserved.

Rene Arnold
The picture of Rene Arnold.

Rene Arnold, Director of LSC CORE (Commitment to Online Resources and Equity), LSC’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), transitioned into higher education at Lone Star College (LSC) in 2016 as an adjunct faculty, member at LSC-Tomball. Her career spans nonprofit and for-profit sectors including IT, operations, human resources and executive recruitment, and she values organizations that prioritize accessible training, equity, and positive culture.

Chris Tkach
The picture of Chris Tkach.
Born a poor boy in New Jersey, I was blessed to live in a small town with an excellent elementary school that fostered in me a love of learning and investigative discovery. Upon graduating high school, I attended Rutgers as an engineering student because my advisor told me in my 2-minute meeting with him that, “You’re good in math, you should be an engineer." After changing my major several times, I graduated with a degree in Economics. My official education ended years later in California with a PhD in psychology. My research while in graduate school focused on happiness (google Chris Tkach Happiness).

Back to Agenda

1:50pm, S155
Belonging work is GRITTY work:
Student belonging efforts consistently return positive data; proving that engagement increases student success and improves retention rates. This session intends to focus on a framework for higher education practitioners to develop a plan for grit in 1) authentic connection, 2) building relationships (care, connect, and coach), and 3) recognizing growth success(es)/growth mindset opportunities.

The Timberwolf Leaders

Alejandro Camacaro Burguillos, a sophomore focusing on Economics, who is passionate about understanding economic systems and creating sustainable solutions. Daniel Witt, a sophomore specializing in Engineering, dedicated to developing innovative technological solutions. Estrella Hernandez, a freshman in Interior Design, known for her creativity and attention to detail in designing functional spaces. Jairo Garcia, a sophomore with a focus on Marketing, who excels in understanding consumer behavior and crafting effective marketing strategies. Lavar Leonard, a sophomore concentrating on Entrepreneurship, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit to explore innovative business ideas. Peyton Bradley, a sophomore focusing on Health, committed to promoting health and wellness within her community.

Back to Agenda

1:50pm, S157
Resilient Learners, Future Leaders: Succeeding in a Digital Age:
The Timberwolf Leaders, a group of college students, will present on the theme of resilience and leadership in the digital age. They will discuss the challenges they have faced as young professionals entering a highly technological workforce, including adapting to new tools, balancing rapid change, and thriving in a multi-generational environment. The presentation will highlight how perseverance and resilience have helped them overcome these obstacles and grow both personally and professionally.

Breakout Session 2
Speaker/Bio	Session Information
Kenneth Garcia Kenneth has been in higher education for over 20 years. He has worked at 4 different Lone Star Campuses and worked 10 years at The University of Houston in the Cullen College of Engineering. Although he spent most of his time as an academic advisor, he has performed many different roles. These roles include recruiting, advising, teaching classes and coordinating programs. He is currently the Manager for Internal Relations. Back to Agenda	2:45 pm, S155 Innovation in Communication: The Evolution of Language and Communication Through the Changing Cultures: We will explore how communication has changed over the ages and how we have adapted to the change. Communication has been used in nonverbal ways for a lot longer than verbal ways and this impacts how people have developed language. Our languages use innovative features to adapt to human experiences. These changes evolve by cultural and generational innovations, and we will discuss how we experience the changes.
Kelvin L Weathers Kelvin L Weathers is a gifted, devoted, empowering, inspiring, transformational speaker, educational consultant, mentor, minister, and author. He has spoken to youth, adults, & other diverse audiences for the past 17 years and also currently a mentor with the non-profit Chauncey Glover Project which empowers teen boys with success principles for college success and life success. He was featured in the Amazon best-selling anthology Still I Thrive Education: Associate of Arts Houston Community College Bachelor of Arts: Texas Southern University He is the oldest of five children. Back to Agenda	2:45 pm, E205 Being Ready for the Next Opportunity After Experiencing Rejection: Overcoming Rejection Rejection can demoralize and depress even the strongest person When we look at rejections sometimes being for our benefit and we can overcome the sting of it When we look at hearing NO as next opportunity then we can remain confident in dealing with rejection I will share tips and strategies on having a resilient mindset when dealing with rejection
Dr. James Stancil Dr. James Stancil serves as an Academic Strategist in the lifePATH program at Lone Star College-Tomball. He works closely with neurodiverse students, guiding them in building essential social and academic skills that help them transition to independent and meaningful careers. His expertise in addressing executive functioning challenges and creating tailored learning strategies has made a lasting impact on his students. Back to Agenda	2:45 pm, S157 Growing in Circles: Using Modified Literature Circles with Adult Learners for Professional Development in Community College: The academic environment, improving teaching, and providing employee professional development have been continuing goals. Dr. James Stancil (lifePATH) will share information about their efforts using a K-12 reading strategy appropriate for adult learners. The presentation is about increasing interconnectedness and professional development and the crucial task of improving the academic climate to enhance student learning.
Anthony Froelich Anthony Froelich serves the Lone Star College-Tomball community as an Academic & Career Advisor. With over a decade of experience in Student Affairs areas, he leverages his experiences to help students navigate their college experiences and prepare for their transitions to Universities and the Workforce. He is a proud alumnus who earned his B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Houston Christian University and M.A. in Higher Education Administration from Sam Houston State University. Back to Agenda	2:45 pm, E252 Lost In Translation: Reconnecting To Our Mission: This session focuses on creating a shared language to reconnect students to our institutional missions. -Redefining educational outcomes to better align with career and workforce readiness. -Creating a shared language between academic institutions and industry partners. -Integrating technology to crosswalk academic learning to skill development.

Sponsored by the Lone Star College-Tomball Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) Title III Grant Initiative

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