Director and Graduate Assistants
Dr. Laura Stengrim, Director (she/her)
Language(s): English
Hi, I’m Dr. Laura Stengrim, Founding Director of the Speakers Workshop and Specialized Faculty in the Department of Communication at the University of Illinois. I joined the Speakers Workshop in 2024 after eight years as a faculty member and director of the Speaking Center at the University of Southern Mississippi. I hold a Masters degree in English (Writing Studies) and Ph.D. In Communication from the U of I. My research interests include rhetorics of globalization, trade, and war, political histories, international and multilingual students in U.S. higher education, and writing and speaking pedagogies. Throughout my career, I have enjoyed mentoring and working with students in writing center and communication center spaces, and watching them build confidence as they step into their unique and wonderful selves. When left to my own devices, you will find me enjoying nature, walking with dog and human friends, taking cooking classes, and generally enjoying life in Chambana.
Nihan Sanic, Graduate Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English, Turkish
Hello! I’m Nihan. I have a BA in Foreign Language Education with a minor in European Studies from METU, and I am currently pursuing an MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MATESOL). Alongside my studies, I work at the Speakers Workshop, teach graduate academic writing courses for multilingual students as a Teaching Assistant, and serve as a rater for the university’s English Proficiency Exam. My research interests center on second language writing, feedback engagement, and oral communication, with a particular focus on comprehensibility, fluency, and speech flow in L2 learners. I am especially passionate about helping students build confidence not just in preparing their speeches but also in delivering them, whether in the classroom or on stage. Outside of work, you can usually find me reading contemporary fiction, volunteering at the local library, or happily exploring the snack aisle at Trader Joe’s. I am beyond excited to work with you on your newest project!
Terry Kincer, Graduate Consultant(he/him)
Langauge(s): English
Hey y’all! I’m Terry Kincer, a second-year PhD student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My research focuses on how border(ed) communities use art-making practices to shape political identities, construct and contest urban spaces, and challenge historical narratives reinforced by dominant cultural institutions. Before attending the University of Illinois, I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts from the University of North Texas and my Master of Arts in Communication Arts from the University of the Incarnate Word. While at Illinois, I have taught both CMN 111 and 112, receiving excellent and outstanding ratings from my students. When I’m not teaching or writing, I enjoy music production, nature walks, and seeking out the best breakfast taco (I’m open to your recommendations).
Chandler Macswain, Graduate Consultant (he/him)
Language(s): English
Hello! My name is Chandler MacSwain and I am a doctoral student here at the University of Illinois focusing on organizations and groups. I earned my B.A. and M.A. in Communication Studies from Marquette University. I teach public speaking and writing courses, and my research focuses on the formation strategies and interventions for teams. I enjoy helping others learn teamworking skills and strengthening their ability to effectively communicate in public settings. In my free time I enjoy watching bad shows, canoeing, and reading high fantasy novels.
Mehmet S., Graduate Consultant (he/him)
Language(s): Turkish, English
Hi, I’m Mehmet. I’m a Master’s student in Language Teaching/Linguistics at UIUC, where I also pursue a graduate minor in College Teaching. I hold a previous Master’s degree in Language Teaching/Education as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Language Teaching/Education. My scholarly interests include workplace dynamics for marginalized staff, critical and radical pedagogies, intersectionality, and the sociology of education. You can find my public CV here for further details. Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time in nature, watching horror movies, and reading whodunit mysteries. I look forward to supporting you with your questions and learning journey.
Oxala D., Graduate Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English
Hi! My name is Oxala Da Silva, and I am currently a second-year PhD student in Communication. I have been at UIUC for almost four years, as I also received a Master’s Degree in Communication. Before coming to UIUC, I received two BAs in Communication and Psychological Science at California State University, San Marcos. In my research, I investigate how our consumption of music impacts our political ideologies, norms, and practices, as well as how we view others in the context of social movements. I am excited to be part of the Speakers Workshop because I recognize that public speaking can be scary. I hope to help other students overcome any speech anxiety and create a product that they are proud of and can deliver confidently. In my free time, I enjoy concerts and music festivals as well as hanging out with my two cats, Bed Bug and Squid Ink Ravioli. I also love obscure documentaries, most reality television, and will gladly take any recommendations. I look forward to working with you soon!
Undergraduate Peer-Consultants
Olivia F., Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English
Hi! My name is Olivia and I am a sophomore studying advertising in the College of Media. Some of my interests include reading and spending time with friends and family! I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with students on campus to help them expand their skills through the Speakers Workshop.
Khushee S., Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English, Gujarati, Hindi
I am a junior majoring in Econometrics & Quantitative Economics, with a minor in Business. Despite my analytical academic focus, I have a deep passion for public speaking. With over three years of training and experience at Toastmasters International’s Gavel Club, I have honed my skills in public speaking and earned several awards in public speaking competitions at the high school and college levels. As a dedicated mentor, I am committed to helping other students excel and have been a part of the Speaker’s Workshop since September 2023. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, baking, and writing poetry.
Carly S., Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English, ASL
Hello! My name is Carly, and I am a Sophomore majoring in Graphic Design at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I am super interested in all arts, some of my favorite artists are photographer Annie Leibovitz and local Chicago sculptor Yvette Mayorga. I come from a musical family and previously attended an extracurricular activity, School of Rock, for around 11 years. I’d love to give my design sense to the Speakers Workshop’s creative section as well as provide support to those seeking to strengthen their public speaking and presentation skills. Some hobbies include art, music, true crime, trying new food, and supporting animal shelters and rehabilitation centers.
Jillian H., Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English
Hi, I am a junior majoring in Communication with minors in Advertising and Public Relations. I have been performing in both musicals and straight plays for over a decade, and more recently began competing in poetry reading contests, placing in the top five at the 2023 Illinois Regional Poetry Out Loud Contest. I am very passionate about the spoken word and seeing the impact that it can have on an audience. I’m a Student Alumni Ambassador, as well as a Communications Chair for the Orange Krush, and enjoy traveling, reading, and trying new foods in my free time.
Michael S., Consultant (he/him)
Language(s): English
Hi, I’m Michael! I’m a junior transfer student majoring in Communication with a minor in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism. I look forward to assisting students with public speaking, as it’s something I enjoy across many settings. These include speech and debate, Six Flags ride operations, giving speeches, previous tutoring in writing, and even karaoke nights at the Illini Union! Outside of public speaking, I enjoy photography, riding roller coasters, going to concerts, and watching movies (in the theaters). I understand that public speaking can be challenging, and sometimes you don’t want to do it, but remember there’s strength in doing things when you don’t want to. So come on in and let us help you!
Averhy S., Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English
Hi there, my name is Averhy, and I am so excited for the opportunity to work with you! I am a senior studying Political Science and Urban Planning, and I have been doing public speaking since I was 10 years old. Through dedication and a willingness to be vulnerable, I believe that everyone has the capacity to learn public speaking. I am passionate about using communication as a tool to promote positive change in the C-U community! This goal is furthered through my work in Students for Environmental Concerns, The King’s Guard, Illinois Student Council, and Alpha Phi Omega. Off campus, I love to experiment with food, watch live music, and go on evening walks around Urbana.
Jess N., Consultant (she/her)
Language(s): English
Hi! my name is Jess and I am a sophomore majoring in Communication and Political Science. I started competing in public speaking when I was 11 and by the time I was in high school, I had earned several awards including being a state qualifier and individual sectional finalist on the speech team. Now, I currently serve on the executive board of the Illini Speech and Debate Team and continue to compete in public address. I am a firm believer that anyone can be a great public speaker no matter their background, and I am excited to be able to help other students build their confidence and strengthen their communication skills. Outside of academics and public speaking, I love fashion, playing instruments, making lattes, and trying different foods at Trader Joes!