Woman standing on grass in front of a school sign, smiling with arms outstretched. The sign displays the name Shaughnessy P.S., with additional text about local community events and dates.
Orange cartoon-style ticking bomb with a fuse.

From school visits to university lectures and creative conferences, I love sharing what I’ve learned as an author, illustrator, and educator.

Read on to learn more about session formats, topics, and booking a visit.

speaking

Green starburst shape with multiple points.
A large, green, star-shaped badge or graphic.
A green, star-shaped object with multiple points against a dark background.

✸ Guest Speaking ✸

  • Keynotes + Panels

    From industry conferences to creative platforms, I offer keynote talks and panel discussions that dive into the realities of building a sustainable, fulfilling art career.

    I share my journey as an illustrator, author, and content creator, along with insights into the business of creativity, navigating identity in publishing, and making space for inclusive storytelling.

  • University Lectures

    I regularly speak at colleges and universities, offering lectures and discussions tailored to illustration students and emerging creatives.

    These sessions often include Q&As, personal anecdotes, and portfolio reviews; blending inspiration with practical advice on thriving in today’s industry.

  • Literary Events

    At literary events and libraries, I participate in readings, signings, and creative workshops for educators, librarians, children and families.

    These events are a chance to connect with my readers, celebrate stories, and discuss the power of representation in children’s books, whether on a panel or in a cozy library.

Past Speaking Engagements

Golden stars and sparkles on a brown background.
Gold background with hand-drawn yellow star shapes, circles, and asterisk-like symbols scattered randomly.

Organizations

Women in Animation

Procreate (Keynote)

Society of Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators

CTN Animation Expo

Lightbox Expo

Schoolism

Universities

University of Arizona

Butler University

Ringling College

Sheridan College

East Carolina University

University of South Alabama

MTM College of Animation, Art & Design

School Visits

I offer interactive school presentations that are fun, inclusive, and focused on creativity and representation. Each session is tailored to the age group and includes a reading, live drawing demo, behind-the-scenes look at how my books are made, and time for Q&A.

I’m available for in-person and virtual visits. Sessions can be adapted for classroom sizes, assemblies, or library events.

Presentations:

THE LOST STICK ADVENTURE (GR K–3)

Using Lost Stick as inspiration, students will imagine and illustrate their own “lost and found” stories. Together, we’ll dream up wacky adventures ordinary objects might go on when we’re not looking.

SAY MY NAME (Gr K–5)

In this presentation, I share the personal story behind That’s Not My Name! Students will reflect on the power of names, why it matters to pronounce them correctly, and how being proud of your culture and heritage helps you stand tall in every space.

Students will leave with a greater understanding of empathy, representation, and celebrating diversity in their own classrooms and communities.

DRAW YOUR CHARACTER! (Gr 3–5)

With a decade of experience working with studios like Disney and Netflix, students will learn the basics of character design for animation. In this workshop, students use storytelling and design to bring a character’s personality to life. From what a character wears to how they walk, every detail can reveal something about who they are and what kind of story they belong in.

STORYTELLING WITH PICTURES (GR 3–9)

Students will learn how pictures can carry just as much story as words. We’ll do a exercise in visual storytelling (no words allowed!) to show how illustrators communicate through art.

HOW TO START A PICTURE BOOK CAREER (GR 9–12)

A practical and inspiring talk about what it takes to become an illustrator or author, from building a portfolio to pitching work to publishers. In this session, I’ll talk about working as a professional illustrator and author: what it’s really like, how creative careers are built, and the many ways artists can make a living.

✸ Investment ✸

  • Half-Day School Visit

    Two sessions (45–60 minutes each)

    Includes a read-aloud, drawing demonstration, behind-the-scenes stories, and Q&A
    $1,200 (plus travel if outside Dallas/Fort Worth area)

  • Full-Day School Visit

    Three to four sessions (45–60 minutes each) throughout the day

    Perfect for reaching multiple grade levels or full assemblies

    Includes read-alouds, live drawing, and interactive time with students
    $2000 (plus travel if outside Dallas/Fort Worth area)

  • Virtual Visits

    Live, interactive sessions over Zoom (or your preferred platform)

    Includes reading, drawing, and Q&A
    $300

Funding a Visit

I believe every child deserves the chance to meet an author, no matter their school’s budget. If funding is a concern, there are many creative ways to make a visit possible:

  • Partner with your PTA/PTO or school library fund

  • Apply for grants and literacy initiatives (many districts set aside funds for this)

  • Partner with local bookstores, libraries, or community organizations

  • Team up with nearby schools to share travel costs

Here’s a helpful resource with 21 ways schools can fund author visits.

A Note

Rates above are standard. I am happy to tailor programs to your needs, and I offer reduced-rate visits for Title I and underserved schools whenever possible. Please reach out to discuss details; I’d love to help bring stories and art into your community.