Get to know the amazing Toastmasters running for District Leadership for the upcoming 2025-2026 term! And don't forget to attend the Candidate Showcase on May 5th from 7pm-9pm, to listen to their pitches and get to ask them questions!
District Director
Wendii Lord
Wendii Lord has been a Toastmaster since 2013 and is a passionate advocate for supportive, purpose-driven leadership. As a strategic thinker, and an experienced communicator and mentor, Wendii brings a wealth of real-world experience to her candidacy for District Director of District 55.
Professionally, Wendii is the Career Tools Manager at Manager Tools, where for over 15 years she has delivered career and hiring advice to a global audience. She has created more than 400 white papers, led the development of online learning programs, and project-managed educational tools used by thousands. Her work in recruitment, learning design, and systems development spans organizations such as IBM UK, local government, and outsourced services.
In Toastmasters, Wendii has served in a wide range of leadership roles, from club officer to Division Director, and has contributed to District efforts in strategic planning, training, and member support. Her professional background in project management, education design, and talent development directly informs her approach to Toastmasters leadership—focused on clarity, structure, and empowerment. Her dedication was born from a difficult first experience in District leadership—and her mission now is to ensure no one else goes through that. She is determined to make every leadership role a growth opportunity, not a source of frustration or burnout.
As District Director, Wendii’s priorities will be to:
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Support all clubs in achieving excellence with clear guidance and meaningful mentorship
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Break the cycle of leadership burnout
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Help members and leaders understand the “why” behind our processes, so everyone feels empowered and valued
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Foster a practice-positive culture—where small steps are celebrated and growth is encouraged
Wendii sums up her leadership philosophy in two phrases:
🌱 “Toastmasters is where we come to practice.”
👏 “Toastmasters—where you learn to clap.”
These principles guide her commitment to creating a District where every club is a safe space to grow, and every member is seen, supported, and inspired.
Program Quality Director
Dawn Trenholm Colvin
Dawn Trenholm Colvin has been a dedicated Toastmaster since 2014, bringing with her a wealth of experience, passion, and proven leadership in service to members across District 55. As a Distinguished Toastmaster and current Club Growth Director, Dawn is ready to continue her journey by stepping into the role of Program Quality Director.
Over the past decade, Dawn has served at every level of club and district leadership, including:
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Finance Manager (2019-2020)
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Area Director of the Year (2021-2022)
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Division H Director of the Year (2022-2023)
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Club Growth Director
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Officer roles in multiple clubs since 2015
Her leadership is hands-on and people-focused. She has chartered new clubs, trained area and division directors, chaired and supported TLIs, led district audit efforts, and supported countless officers and members through mentorship, education, and encouragement.
Professionally, Dawn works in Business Administrative Support, where she facilitates teamwork, manages training programs, handles HR responsibilities, and fills organizational gaps with thoughtful leadership. Her background includes operating budgets, supporting project development, and improving internal processes—skills that translate directly to her success as a District leader.
As Program Quality Director, Dawn will focus on:
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Providing strong, practical training for club and district leaders
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Supporting clubs in achieving excellence and growth
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Championing mentorship, coaching, and collaboration
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Creating systems that help clubs succeed and members thrive
Her leadership style is grounded in collaboration, perseverance, and purpose. Dawn says, “I’ve grown stupendously through Toastmasters. Now I want to give back, use my story to inspire others, and help our District shine.”
When she’s not leading or mentoring, Dawn finds joy in nature, cycling, music, dancing, and making life fun. She brings that same spirit of joy, dedication, and service to everything she does in Toastmasters.
Steve Lockwood
Steve Lockwood has been a Toastmaster since 1995 and brings over three decades of leadership experience to his candidacy for Program Quality Director of District 55. A passionate and persistent leader, Steve has served in nearly every major district role, including District Governor, Lieutenant Governor of Education and Training, Lieutenant Governor of Marketing, Division Governor, and multiple terms as Area Governor or Director.
Steve is a Triple Distinguished Toastmaster and has earned numerous accolades, including:
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District Toastmaster of the Year (2018–2019)
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Division Governor of the Year (District 6, 1999–2000)
He has been a key contributor to district strategic planning efforts for decades, serving as District Alignment Chair over 15 times and helping shape the growth and structure of clubs across both District 6 and District 55. As a former Club Growth Director, he chartered 15 clubs in a single year, and has personally chartered 7 clubs in Texas, helping Toastmasters expand into new communities and industries.
Professionally, Steve has worked in accounting for over 20 years and is known for streamlining procedures and training new employees with clarity and efficiency. He brings that same focus on simplicity and results to his work in Toastmasters—whether planning district events, mentoring leaders, or organizing impactful training sessions.
As Program Quality Director, Steve is focused on:
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Delivering high-quality training that respects members’ time
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Revitalizing under-strength clubs with strategic attention and resources
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Building a strong team culture to help District 55 grow in excellence
Steve is committed to reversing the club losses District 55 has experienced in recent years. He says, “We can’t turn it around overnight—but I know we can be part of the solution.”
Originally from Minnesota, Steve now lives in Kyle with his two cats. He enjoys hiking, fantasy football, and college football, and brings energy, experience, and heart to everything he does.
Club Growth Director
Tracey James
Tracey James has been a passionate Toastmaster since 2010, known for her integrity, leadership, and dedication to personal and professional development. With a strong background in human resources, adult education, and public service, she brings a unique blend of expertise to her candidacy for Club Growth Director of District 55.
Tracey has held numerous club officer roles over the years, including President, Vice President of Education, and Secretary in multiple clubs such as Future Speakers on the Horizon, Talk of the Tower, and most recently, President of Alamo Heights Toastmasters in 2024. She is a collaborative and dependable team player who values clear communication and purposeful leadership.
Professionally, Tracey holds:
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A Master’s in Adult Education (Curriculum & Instructional Design)
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A Master’s in Human Resources Management
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A Bachelor’s in Business Administration
She has served as an HR generalist and analyst, developed training programs, written policies and procedures, and managed large-scale operational planning for military and civilian organizations. Her financial leadership includes serving as Treasurer for both the SMA Leon L. Van Autreve Sergeants Major Association and the San Antonio Chapter of Blacks in Government.
Tracey believes leadership is about honesty, respect, and lifelong learning. Her goal as Club Growth Director is to:
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Support the growth and sustainability of new and existing clubs
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Build strong, motivated teams
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Inspire excellence by modeling Toastmasters values: Integrity, Respect, Service, and Excellence
Currently a member of the Association for Talent Development (ATD), Tracey continues to invest in her growth and the development of those around her. She says: “I always gain something from every speech and every person I come in contact with.”
Her dedication to empowering others makes her a thoughtful and capable leader for District 55.
Reed Stoddard
Reed Stoddard has been a dedicated Toastmaster since 1997 and brings a lifetime of leadership, service, and mentoring experience to his candidacy for Club Growth Director of District 55.
With over 43 years of experience in government, higher education, and nonprofit leadership, Reed has built and led teams across a wide range of roles—including college administrator, director of procurement and materials management, and adult education facilitator. He is known for his ability to guide others in setting clear goals and achieving measurable success through collaboration, strategic planning, and mentorship.
Within Toastmasters, Reed has served in numerous leadership roles (detailed in his attached service record), and is deeply committed to supporting members at every level. He believes in growing leaders by empowering others, listening with empathy, and encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and confidence.
As a strategic planner, Reed has led teams in defining mission statements, setting priorities, and outlining tactical plans. His budget-building and program management experience equip him to lead club growth efforts with clarity and fiscal responsibility.
Reed is passionate about the District’s mission and plans to focus on:
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Improving access and awareness of Toastmasters for visitors and prospective members
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Promoting relevant community programs
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Helping corporations integrate Pathways for employee development and engagement
A retired military veteran and Texas teacher retirement system retiree, Reed is a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who lives in Round Rock. He has completed the UniverCity Round Rock program and the Round Rock Citizens Police Academy (Cohort #47).
Reed’s leadership philosophy is simple and powerful: “I find joy in seeing others strive and succeed.” His dedication to building others up makes him a strong and compassionate choice for Club Growth Director.
Division G
Frank Salazar
Frank Salazar joined Toastmasters in 2022 and has quickly established himself as a dynamic and committed leader within the organization. He currently serves as Club President of HUB City Toastmasters and Area Director for F23 (2024–2025).
Francisco’s Toastmasters journey has already been full of growth. He has held several officer roles and was awarded 2nd Place in the 2024 Area Humorous Speech Contest. His leadership has included organizing club-level events like speechathons and workshops, including a Speechcraft program and an Elevator Pitch contest for a local business community.
Beyond Toastmasters, Francisco volunteers with the Choose To Change Foundation, where he facilitates Thursday meetings and inspires others through personal development.
A passionate advocate for leadership through service, Francisco is excited to help clubs grow and thrive. His goals as Division Director include:
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Promoting Toastmasters in the community
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Empowering leaders through encouragement and opportunity
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Supporting club growth and member engagement
Francisco enjoys the creative arts, tabletop role-playing games, and public speaking. His energy, dedication, and grassroots impact make him a strong voice for District 55.
Division H
Cheryn L. Fasano
Cheryn L. Fasano brings an exceptional blend of experience, service, and heart to her candidacy for Division Director. A Toastmaster since 2000 and a proud Distinguished Toastmaster, Cheryn has spent over two decades helping others grow as communicators and leaders.
Cheryn’s leadership journey includes a rich history of service:
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Area Director (2015–2016)
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Multiple terms as Club President, VP Education, Sergeant at Arms, Treasurer, Secretary, and VP Public Relations
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Current Club President (2024–2025)
Outside Toastmasters, Cheryn is a retired Army Reserve Major General with 38 years of leadership and public speaking experience. She has led diverse teams, developed leaders, and driven mission success at the highest levels. Her background in strategic planning, operations, and mentorship uniquely positions her to support and empower clubs across the Division.
Cheryn also brings strong financial acumen from running two home-based businesses and holds an MBA, giving her the tools to help clubs manage resources wisely. Her military service also honed her skills in developing clear, effective procedures and fostering strong organizational culture.
A lifelong learner and servant leader, Cheryn is passionate about the Toastmasters mission and is especially focused on:
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Strengthening club growth and engagement
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Mentoring Area Directors
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Encouraging members to embrace the Pathways program
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Fostering outreach and continuous learning
Cheryn’s leadership is rooted in empathy and adaptability. One of her most memorable leadership lessons came from a Toastmasters Leadership Institute, where she learned that truly effective leaders tailor their communication to support and uplift others.
With her blend of wisdom, warmth, and drive, Cheryn is committed to helping District 55 clubs thrive and members grow to their full potential.
Angie Collier
Angie Collier has been a Toastmaster since 2020 and brings a wealth of experience in education, communication, and service leadership.
She holds degrees in Mid-Management, Education, and a Master’s in Literacy, and has spent her professional life empowering others through teaching and mentoring.
She currently serves as VP Membership for Sunday Speakers and North San Antonio Toastmasters, and is the Area 41 Director (2023-2024).
Throughout her Toastmasters journey, Angie has helped clubs grow and thrive, including leading mock meetings, supporting contests, and mentoring members. She has also served in leadership positions with NAMI, her PTA, and her church, managing budgets, planning events, and developing meaningful procedures and training.
Angie believes strongly in the Toastmasters mission to build clubs and develop leaders. As President, she plans to:
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Empower club officers and members
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Encourage outreach through open houses and guest speakers
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Help Toastmasters continue to grow and shine
She brings warmth, experience, and a passion for community—both inside and outside of Toastmasters.
Division I
Manuel Gutierrez
Manuel Gutierrez has been a committed Toastmaster since 2014, bringing a passion for leadership, communication, and community building to every role he takes on.
Manuel has served as Area Director for Area I-54, where he stepped in to support clubs that previously lacked leadership, helping them regain momentum through open houses, contests, and strong collaboration with fellow Area Directors. He is also the current President of Ericsson Austin Toastmasters, a club he proudly chartered at his workplace. His earlier experience as a club officer at Intel gives him deep insight into the unique needs of corporate and technology-focused Toastmasters clubs.
A Level 3 achiever in Persuasive Influence, Manuel also placed 2nd in his Division contest in Mexico (District 34) in 2019, showcasing his own growth as a speaker and leader.
Professionally, he is an Electronics Engineer working in the technology industry. His experience includes developing technical guidelines, standardizing emergency response roles through Incident Command Systems, and leading volunteer teams. He brings strong skills in strategic planning, resource coordination, and team communication—skills he’s eager to apply in service to Division I.
Manuel believes that leadership means setting the example, supporting others, and fostering clear and caring communication. His vision for Division I centers on club growth, member development, and strong support for Area Directors through training and active engagement.
Originally from Mexico, Manuel now lives in Kyle with his family. Outside of Toastmasters, he enjoys playing music, cycling, board games, and learning something new every day.
Division J
Irina Nizhnik
Irina Nizhnik has been a Toastmaster since 2018 and brings a unique blend of academic excellence, professional leadership, and deep Toastmasters experience to her candidacy for Division Director.
She holds an MBA, MA, and BA, as well as certifications in computer science, and has already completed four Toastmasters Pathways—including Leadership Development, Innovative Planning, Persuasive Influence, and the Pathways Mentor Program. She is currently working on the Visionary Communication path as she pursues her Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation.
Irina has held several impactful roles in Toastmasters, including:
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Area Director for J63 (2023–2024) and J64 (2024–present)
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Club President of HHS Toastmasters in Chicago (2020–2022)
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VP of Education at Aim High Toastmasters in Austin (2024–2025)
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Club Treasurer, Immediate Past President, and SpeechCraft participant and organizer
Her clubs have earned President’s Distinguished Club status for consecutive years under her leadership.
Professionally, Irina brings extensive experience in project management, analytics, grant writing, and strategic planning—skills that directly align with the needs of Toastmasters leadership. She’s well-versed in creating processes, facilitating area and club contests, conducting training, and leading with strategic insight.
Irina believes in the Toastmasters mission to build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence. Her approach includes increasing outreach, training leaders, leveraging marketing tools, and maintaining meaningful connections with clubs across the District.
Now seeking a new leadership challenge, Irina is ready to apply her energy, experience, and passion to help District 55 thrive.
Division K
Satish Shenoy
Satish Shenoy has been a Toastmaster since 2013 and is a Distinguished Toastmaster who brings over a decade of leadership, mentoring, and public speaking experience to his candidacy for Division Director.
Satish has served in a wide range of club and district leadership roles, including Club President, Area Director, and most recently, Club Secretary at Leadership 101, an advanced Toastmasters club. He was recognized as Best Area Director in District 101 for 2017–2018, a testament to his impact and dedication.
Professionally, Satish is the Global Vice President of Technology Alliances at SS&C Blue Prism and has held executive roles at both startups and Fortune 500 companies. With deep experience in strategic planning, finance, and global team leadership, Satish brings a collaborative, results-oriented approach grounded in servant leadership.
He believes the heart of Toastmasters is the club member experience—and that great leadership starts with understanding what inspires others. His goal as Division Director is to support Area Directors and club leaders in creating thriving, high-performing clubs, and to help District 55 shine as a model of excellence.
Satish is also passionate about youth leadership and serves as a mentor and treasurer coach for a Gavel Club, where both of his children have been active members.