Vice-President Candidates
Natalie Abundiz
My entire career since graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 2009 has been in the wonderful field of Education. I started as an Academic Advisor for the School of Engineering (2009-2012) and member of NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising. In 2012, I decided to move back home to Houston, Tx, where I served in the role of Advisor and Coordinator at Our Lady of the Lake University’s Weekend College (2012-2016) and earned my Master of Arts Degree in Human Sciences with a concentration in Sociology and Education. My journey in adult education officially started in 2016 when I accepted the role as Program Manager for Adult Education & Literacy at Lone Star College. Since then, I have held various positions within the field including Director of Adult Education (2019-2021), Coastal Texas Association for Literacy and Adult Education Representative (2022-2024) and Director of Continuing Education and Adult Education & Literacy (2021-Present). These experiences have equipped me with the skills and insights to develop a deeper understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by adult learners while identifying ways to bridge the gap in today’s workforce through continuing education programs. Each day, I strive to create inclusive learning environments where adult learners can acquire new skills, pursue their passions, and facilitate pathways to meaningful employment and career advancement. I truly love the work that I do. It is both powerful and meaningful. I have the power to help transform lives, instill confidence, self-esteem and offer an environment where learners feel supported through their mission to break down barriers to build a better life. I have enjoyed attending conferences as a member of the Texas Association of Literacy and Adult Education and the Coalition on Adult Basic Education. It’s through these memberships that I’ve had the space to exchange ideas and collaborate with other programs and organizations to promote the professional growth of teachers, administrators, and adult learners in my program.
Elizabeth Moya
With over 25 years devoted to adult education, Elizabeth “Liz” Moya has served in multiple capacities allowing her to develop a broad and deep understanding for adult learners and those who serve them. As Vice President, Liz can leverage this experience and the professional networks she has cultivated to contribute to TALAE’s vision. From classroom instructor to national trainer and long-standing TALAE member, Liz prides herself on not losing sight of the most vulnerable student populations, ensuring their needs and interests are part of TALAE’s fabric. Elected three consecutive terms to represent the Far West, she contributed to the TALAE organization in many facets, including securing online presenters and assisting with technology support during the pandemic’s transition to an online conference. Most notably, her advocacy to bring statewide professional development to faculty and staff with travel restrictions led to the establishment of TALAE regional events. The most rewarding aspect of serving for the TALAE Board has been the collegial engagement in the all-volunteer team and showcasing student success stories during the TALAE Awards. In the spirit of continuing to professionalize adult education, she is committed to supporting the president elect and president as part of the TALAE Executive Board. Liz is counting on your vote to elect the best candidate for the vice presidency position.
Dr. Irene Ramos
Irene Ramos brings 34 years of dedicated experience in adult education and workforce training to her multifaceted career. Throughout her journey, she has assumed various pivotal roles in both Adult Education and Workforce including instructor, coordinator, adjunct faculty, staff development trainer, and Workforce Center Manager, among others. Ms. Ramos's rich tapestry of expertise encompasses not only the workforce and adult education program realms but also extends into civic leadership, affording her a holistic perspective on educational and community dynamics. Her academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence, with a Bachelor's degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio and a Doctorate of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s School of Law, also in San Antonio. Currently serving as the Program Manager for Crossroads Adult Education at the ESC Region 2 in Corpus Christi, Ms. Ramos has been instrumental in establishing and nurturing this thriving program from its inception. Her visionary leadership has been pivotal in rebranding adult education in the Coastal Bend region, fostering vital connections with partners and stakeholders.
A proud lifelong resident of Poteet, Texas, Ms. Ramos finds joy in her 35-year marriage to her husband, Ed, and takes immense pride in the achievements of her three successful children. Her aspirations extend beyond her remarkable career; she envisions a future where educational systems undergo radical transformation to effectively serve diverse populations, fostering authentic learning experiences that empower individuals to thrive. In summary, Irene Ramos exemplifies unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a profound commitment to shaping the future of education and community empowerment.
A proud lifelong resident of Poteet, Texas, Ms. Ramos finds joy in her 35-year marriage to her husband, Ed, and takes immense pride in the achievements of her three successful children. Her aspirations extend beyond her remarkable career; she envisions a future where educational systems undergo radical transformation to effectively serve diverse populations, fostering authentic learning experiences that empower individuals to thrive. In summary, Irene Ramos exemplifies unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a profound commitment to shaping the future of education and community empowerment.
Delia Watley
Delia Watley, Program Manager for the Adult Education and Literacy programs in the Irving ISD, began her career in education in 2002 managing the Irving.Net CTC program, a collaborative effort of the City of Irving, the Irving/Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, North Lake College and the Irving Independent School District. Ms. Watley has served on various educational committees over the years including the Dallas County Coalition as well as Collaborator to the Texas Adult Education & Literacy Internationally Trained Professionals Workgroup. Ms. Watley is currently serving as VP on the executive board of TALAE (Texas Association of Literacy and Adult Education), the Parkland Irving Community Advisory Board and the Educational Committee for the Irving Carrollton Branch of the NAACP. She has received numerous awards such as the NAACP Educator of the Year Award, Workforce Solutions Trailblazer Award, the Irving ISD Heartcore Award, the Barbara Bush Dyer Pearl Literacy Award, the NAACP President’s Award, the Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Partnership Award, the 4H Dallas County Partnership Award and the recent 2023 Pillar Award from Workforce Solutions.
Delia Watley is a graduate of Grambling State University and holds a master’s in Educational Technology and Leadership from Lamar University. She also holds the Administrator’s Credential for the state adult education programs, the Career Pathways Leadership certification and is a graduate of the ESL Teaching Academy of Eastfield College.
Delia Watley is a graduate of Grambling State University and holds a master’s in Educational Technology and Leadership from Lamar University. She also holds the Administrator’s Credential for the state adult education programs, the Career Pathways Leadership certification and is a graduate of the ESL Teaching Academy of Eastfield College.