Highlighted Keynote Speakers
Opening Keynote | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Welcome Home: Where Your First Hello Grows the TSHA Constellation
Say goodbye to stiff handshakes and awkward silences! This transformative keynote welcomes you home to the TSHA constellation—a community of stars whose connections illuminate and strengthen our field. Guided by Judy Rich and Nathalie Lebrun, this lively, interactive session blends storytelling, science, movement, and hands-on practice to show how one “first hello” can grow your professional constellation and contribute to the brilliance of the TSHA community.
You’ll learn how to craft memorable introductions, navigate small talk with confidence, and step boldly into new professional spaces—no matter your personality type. Along the way, you’ll hear real TSHA spark stories, experience guided networking moments, and walk away with practical strategies to build authentic, lasting relationships throughout the convention and your career. Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned professional, come ready to connect, laugh, reflect, and shine.
Where your network grows—and the TSHA community shines bright.
Presented by:
Judy Rich, EdD, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL
Judy Rich, EdD, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL is Professor of Practice in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Texas at Dallas, and an educational consultant specializing in school related issues for quality speech-language pathology services. She is a Board-Certified Specialist in Child Language. Judy has written and presented workshops on a variety of topics for school-based SLPs and is co-host of the LeadSpeak podcast. She served in school districts in Texas as an SLP, special education director, and assistant superintendent. She has also served as President of the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association and President of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Nathalie Lebrun, MA, CCC-SLP
Nathalie Lebrun is a Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of LifeSpeak LLC, a private practice that supports individuals with communication differences in building skills for employment, independent living, and meaningful connections. She partners with families to provide outcome-driven, personalized support and also offers corporate communication coaching to professionals seeking clarity, confidence, and stronger workplace interactions. Nathalie is a frequent speaker at state and national conferences, presenting on post-secondary transition, special education assessment, and functional communication therapy. Nathalie is a LoneStar LEND (Leadership Education in Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders) fellow. In 2024, she was recognized by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association as an Innovator for Texas for her contributions to public school special education services. Nathalie co-hosts the LeadSpeak podcast for school-based SLP leaders, serves as adjunct faculty at the University of Houston, and chairs the Communication Advocacy Committee for the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She previously led the Speech-Language Pathology Department in Humble ISD and supported the district’s MOSAIC post-secondary program for young adults with disabilities.