Executive
Gordon W. Davis, Ph.D.
Chairman / Partner
Gordon W. Davis, Ph.D., founder, currently serves as the company chairman. Davis started as an intern high school teacher in 1968. He earned two B.S. degrees from Washington State University in the 1960s. He was an instructor at Texas A&M University for five years while finishing M.S. and Ph.D. requirements, followed by 13 years as a faculty member at the University of Tennessee and Texas Tech University. In 1984, Davis embarked on an entrepreneurial experience when he started CEV after finding traditional textbooks of agriculture curriculum to be inadequate. With a mission to bring better student learning in and outside-of-the classroom, CEV was born.
Throughout his 50 year career, Davis has received 49 university, business and industry awards, which include: Business Person Hall of Fame Award, Lubbock Chamber of Commerce; Honorary American FFA Degree; Silver Spur Award, Texas Tech University (TTU); Small Business Person of the Year (Lubbock District), U.S. Small Business Administration; Hall of Fame Award, Animal & Food Sciences TTU; Distinguished Service Award, Animal Sciences, Washington State University (WSU); Intercollegiate Meat Judging Meritorious Service and Signal Service Awards, American Meat Science Association; Outstanding Teacher Award, College of Agriculture, University of Tennessee; Passion for Excellence Award, Texas FFA Foundation; Outstanding Agriculturalist Award - Agribusiness, College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, TTU; Outstanding Philanthropist Award, Association of Fundraising Professionals (Texas Plains Chapter); Alumni Achievement Award, WSU Alumni Association. Davis has also coached two national championship meat judging teams (Texas A&M University, 1973; TTU, 1989).
Although Davis is extraordinarily accomplished, he graciously attributes this success to the "players" with which he has been associated. In 2012, CEV Multimedia was named to both the Governor's State of Texas Small Business Award and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Blue Ribbon Small Business Award lists, along with being named the 2014 Association of Career & Technical Education (ACTE) Business Leader of the Year - awards for which Davis and CEV are extremely proud.
A defining moment in his life was when his family earned the 1964 "Washington State Dairy Family of the Year" award. In fact, much of his success can be attributed to his work ethic, instilled in him by his parents while working on the family farm; yet, business associates point to his ability to focus and his pursuit of excellence. Whether on the high school, university or business level, Davis has a total commitment to upholding the highest standards of scientific investigation and professional comportment. Additionally, he has an uncompromising commitment to the advancement of knowledge, not only for himself, his students and his family, but equally for the hundreds of thousands of viewers of CEV materials. Davis is most known for the motto, "It's all about the kids," whether they are his own or those scattered among thousands of classrooms nationally.
Dusty Moore
President & CEO / Partner
Dusty Moore, President of iCEV, is passionate about Career & Technical Education and creating products for CTE teachers due to his history with CTE programs. Growing up in Boys Ranch, TX, he saw the role CTE programs played in shaping the lives and careers of several of his classmates, as well as his own. In high school, he was extremely involved in his high school’s FFA program where he served as a chapter, district, area and state FFA officer. His involvement in FFA led him to Texas Tech where he pursued a degree in agricultural communications. While a student at Texas Tech, he was actively involved in several agriculture education-related organizations such as the National Reserve Champion Meat Judging Team, the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity and Agriculture Ambassadors.
Moore began working at CEV in 2002 as a student production coordinator. During his tenure as production coordinator, Moore was responsible for developing curriculum for various subject areas, which included researching, writing and editing educational video productions and Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, in addition to correlating materials to state educational standards. In an effort to aid sales during the Texas textbook adoption, Moore served as a Curriculum Sales Consultant from 2004 to 2005, where he managed a territory consisting of over 200 accounts, with 88 percent of accounts adopting and implementing at least one state-approved course of study. After finishing the adoption, Moore was named Production Manager in 2005 and promoted to Vice President of Production in 2007. During this time period, he managed a team of full- and part-time employees in developing 547 copyrighted multimedia curriculum products for nationwide use in classrooms. In addition, during this period he worked with Clayton Franklin to develop CEV’s Pathway and Multimedia Pathway Unit products which were subsequently adopted in 13 states for various CTE courses.
Moore was awarded Employee of the Year in 2006 and the Aubrey N. Davis Family Award 2008. Due to his previous experience in sales and dedication to CEV, Moore switched roles in 2009, becoming Vice President of Business Development. During this period, he worked with Mark Johnson in hiring, managing and training a 20-plus person sales staff covering 23 different states. In 2012, Moore was promoted to President of iCEV where he began developing the company’s online platform, iCEV. In his current role, Moore is strongly focused on the platform’s development as well as customer service, marketing and sales.
Moore is actively involved with the education technology industry, and he has presented multiple times at industry conferences such as the SIIA Education Business Forum and has served on steering committees for conferences. In addition, Moore is strongly engaged in the CTE community as he has presented at several CTE conferences such as the national CareerTech Vision annual conference. Moore also serves on several advisory boards for CTE and agriculture-related organizations, including the Texas FFA Foundation Board and the Cal Poly Agriculture Education and Communications Department Advisory Council.
Together with his wife Ginger, he has his hands full with twins, Ella and Daphne and younger daughter Macy.
Clayton Franklin
Executive Vice President / Partner
Clayton Franklin, Vice President of Brand Management, is originally from Tucumcari, NM and graduated from Kansas State University with her bachelor's degree in animal science in 2001. Franklin was involved in numerous successful judging teams during her high school and college career, placing high individual in more than ten contests nationally. She later joined CEV as a student production coordinator while earning her master's degree in business administration (MBA) at Texas Tech University. In 2002, Franklin was one of 12 individuals to receive the Texas Business Hall of Fame Scholarship at Texas Tech University.
During her time as a production coordinator, Franklin was responsible for coordinating the development of educational multimedia presentations in both video and Microsoft® PowerPoint® formats, and was the primary developer of the company’s top-selling DVD (i.e., Career Planning Basics) for that time. In 2003, she was named Director of Marketing and promoted to Vice President of Marketing in 2007 where she coordinated all aspects of point of sale materials; organized and planned conventions/conferences; helped in the development, design and maintenance of the company website; promoted products and executed contracts with more than 70 resellers, as well as managed the support staff for all curriculum sales consultants.
Due to her previous experience in producing content, Franklin changed roles in 2012, becoming Vice President of Brand Management. Together with a brand management team of more than 18 employees, Franklin has managed the development of more than 785 copyrighted materials, and she takes great pride in creating a product educators want to use and students find engaging. While her primary responsibility is leading content creation, Franklin additionally heads all instructional materials adoption efforts with approval of more than 425 courses of study across 16 different states. Additionally, she works closely with both the marketing and sales departments to maintain the integrity and name recognition of the CEV brand.
She received CEV's Employee of the Year in 2005 and the Aubrey N. Davis Family Award in 2007. In recognition of her performance, leadership and dedication, Franklin, along with three others, was promoted to Partner of CEV Multimedia in 2011. Franklin unquestionably attributes her success to being a "product" of Career & Technical Education, which is the inspiration for her commitment and enthusiasm toward her efforts at CEV and her active involvement in the CTE community presenting at several CTE conferences like the national CareerTech Vision annual conference and others across the country.
Together with her husband Wade, she enjoys working on the family sheep farm and watching her son, Hudson, show lambs and play youth sports, along with volunteering her time to help young men and women with their FFA and 4-H livestock projects.
Mark Johnson
Executive Vice President / Partner
Mark Johnson, Vice President of Business Development, is originally from Springfield, MO where he graduated from Missouri State University with a bachelor's degree in marketing/sales management. Upon graduation, he worked in the area of sales and sales management and continued to do so when he joined the CEV team in 2003 as a Curriculum Sales Consultant. In this role, Johnson worked directly with teachers and CTE directors on classroom solutions via CEV Multimedia products, as well as professional development training, product implementation and support for CEV customers.
Johnson was promoted to Eastern Division Sales Manager in 2008 and Vice President of Business Development in 2010 where he is responsible for hiring, training and mentoring all outside sales representatives. Managing a 35-member team, Johnson enjoys learning from each of them as much as helping them with their customers. With Johnson’s leadership, CEV’s direct sale presence has grown from nine states in 2008, to 32 states currently, with a goal of 48 states. A gifted presenter, Johnson attends and speaks at numerous conferences and workshops throughout the year, as well as conducts more than 200 online training and staff development sessions for current and potential customers.
For his integrity, savvy and team mentality, Johnson received the Aubrey N. Davis Family Award in 2007, and he was the inaugural winner of the Eddie Puckett Salesperson of the Year Award in 2008. In 2011, he, along with three others, was promoted to Partner of CEV Multimedia.
Developing and building teams, along with working directly with teachers, is Johnson’s passion. Johnson enjoys working with many areas of education and respects how hard Career & Technical Education (CTE) teachers work for their students. He says he enjoys watching teachers react when they begin to understand how CEV products are designed and put together to assist them with their curriculum.
Johnson serves on the CTE Advisory Board for Huffman ISD as well as serving on the Huffman ISD Citizens Advisory Leadership Committee and PAC Committee for the 2016 school bond. Johnson and his wife, Michelle, have three children Paige, Adrianna, and William, all of which are very involved in volunteer work and extracurricular activities. In his free time, Johnson enjoys golfing with friends and spending time with family at the beach.
Business Development
Lora Hurley
Director of Business Development
Landee Kieschnick
Higher Education Consultant
Landee Kieschnick is originally from Vernon, TX, but now calls Lubbock, TX home. A die-hard Red Raider, Kieschnick earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in agricultural communications from Texas Tech University. During her college career, Kieschnick worked for several entities, including Texas Farm Bureau, Cactus Feeders and Texas Tech Meat Science. As part of her master’s degree program, Kieschnick traveled to Australia and conducted a needs assessment for implementing agricultural communications curriculum in colleges across the country.
As a CEV Curriculum Consultant, Kieschnick works with CTE teachers across New Mexico. In her travels across the state, Kieschnick has enjoyed meeting teachers and helping each teacher find resources to make their job easier.
"What I enjoy most about my job is showing a resource to a teacher that can be a tremendous help in their classroom. Many teachers have numerous teaching preps, and if I can make one hour of their day better, I feel satisfied that I have done a good job," said Kieschnick.
In her free time, Kieschnick likes to travel and spend time with friends and family, especially her nephew. Kieschnick can play the accordion and is known to play at family functions. She also owns her own videography company and has produced videos for a variety of clients and events.
Bryce Moore
Data & Contracts Analyst
Bryce Moore, a member of the CEV Multimedia Business Development Team, has experience in data analysis in various fields. Moore earned his bachelor of business administration degree in energy commerce from Texas Tech University. Utilizing his degree, Moore’s previous work experiences include interpreting data and providing suggestions for improvements based on quantitative information.
Managing, cleaning and analyzing CEV’s data is Moore’s specialty. Working with each department, he gathers data and interprets patterns and trends to highlight areas of growth and improvement within the company. Moore leads discussions within CEV to suggest opportunities to acquire more content for the library. He also plays a role in reviewing, negotiating and handing CEV business contracts. He continually seeks to provide suggestions to make our in-house data more efficient.
"Within my role, I enjoy helping our team better understand our data, " said Moore. "In return, this helps my teammates effectively complete tasks within their roles at iCEV. "
Outside of work, Moore enjoys hunting, golfing, fishing and being outdoors with his family.
Sharon Eichhorst
Professional Development Specialist
After teaching business in Abilene, TX, Sharon Eichhorst, joined the CEV team due to her passion for Career & Technical Education. She wanted to continue working with CTE teachers and students after teaching business courses in Abilene, TX. Eichhorst holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Stephen F. Austin State University and a master’s degree in education from Hardin Simmons University.
Eichhorst holds a meaningful role at CEV. She offers continuous professional development opportunities for teachers. She serves as a point of contact for iCEV users to have their questions answered and to learn how to use the platform.
When asked why CTE is important, Eichhorst said, "Not all students need to go to college, but they need to learn a skill, and CTE gives them the opportunity to learn the skill in high school."
Outside of her work for CEV, Eichhorst enjoys spending her time with family and friends. She also enjoys going to the lake and reading.
Carolyn Berry
Customer Success Specialist
While Carolyn Berry is originally from Hermleigh, TX, she has called Lubbock home for the last few years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary agriculture from Western Texas College. During her studies, she spent time student teaching at Westbrook High School, where she primarily taught agricultural courses.
Berry has a passion for the agricultural industry and enjoys sharing agricultural concepts, practices and innovations with others. Prior to joining the CEV team, Berry spent time working in the retail industry.
She enjoys helping others and collaborating on various projects. As a Customer Success Specialist, Berry will be working with CTE teachers and iCEV Territory Managers across the country. She will be helping teachers use their iCEV subscription to its full potential and serve as a resource for teachers.
"I am excited for my role at CEV," said Berry. "I am looking forward to sharing the resources and materials iCEV offers with numerous teachers and students."
When Berry is not helping others, she enjoys reading, fishing and spending time with her family.
Sydney Witte
Customer Success Specialist
Sydney Witte has joined the iCEV team as a Customer Success Specialist. Originally from Clint, TX, Witte has called Lubbock, TX home since earning her bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications from Texas Tech University.
Witte has experience in the agricultural industry and working in government and policy settings. She has worked in Austin, TX, with Senator Charles Perry and Congressman Jodey Arrington in Lubbock, TX. Witte volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Southwest. Additionally, Witte is a member of the Texas Agri-Women South Plains Chapter and was a member of the Lubbock Chamber Leadership class of 2018.
Growing up in a family highly involved in CTE programs, Witte is passionate about the field of CTE. She recognizes the dedication and the determination CTE teachers put forth every day. She is excited about her position at iCEV and being able to provide CTE teachers resources for their classrooms. Witte enjoys the iCEV work environment and believes, “everyone is here to help you excel."
In her spare time, Witte enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family. She can also prefers podcasts and audiobooks over music.
Catie Wharton
Customer Success Specialist
Wharton is originally from Syracuse, Kansas, but move to Lubbock, Texas to become a Texas Tech Red Raider. For the last few years, she has been sporting red and black and enjoying West Texas sunsets. She has recently joined the CEV team as a Customer Success Specialist.
Growing up on a ranch, Wharton knew from a young age she wanted to work in the agricultural industry. Following her passion for the industry, Wharton earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Texas Tech University.
Wharton is people oriented and enjoys assisting others any opportunity she has. She is inspired to work with CTE teachers and iCEV Curriculum Consultants around the country in her role at CEV. Wharton serves as a resource for teachers to have their iCEV questions answered and to learn iCEV’s newest updates.
In her spare time, Wharton enjoys riding horses and playing with her dogs.
Business & Industry Partnerships
Kelli Neuman
Director of Business & Industry Partnerships
Kelli Neuman joined the CEV team as the Director of Business and Industry Partnerships in 2019 after admiring the company from afar for years. Neuman is originally from Winnie, TX and holds a B.S. in agricultural communications from Texas Tech University and was a Soderquist Fellow at John Brown University where she earned an M.S. in leadership and ethics from the College of Business.
Neuman experience in government and organizational settings, as well as Career & Technical Student Organizations. She worked as a Congressional Intern for the U.S. House of Representatives and was a Project Coordinator for Soderquist Leadership for two years. Most recently, Neuman worked in youth leadership development as the Leadership Development Coordinator for Texas FFA before joining the CEV Multimedia team.
Coming from a family of public-school teachers, Neuman is passionate about the field of education, especially Career & Technical Education. "I’m grateful I get to work at the intersection of business, education, and government. All three are important to providing access to high-quality college and career opportunities, and that intersection keeps every day different and interesting! " She says it is rewarding to facilitate opportunities for business and government entities to interact and discuss what is best for both learners and the economy.
When she isn’t working to foster relationships with industry and government officials on iCEV and our industry partners’ behalf, Neuman enjoys chasing new experiences and expanding her knowledge about a variety of subjects. She also enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors.
Accounting
Karen Crowell
Controller / Human Resources Manager
Karen Crowell, Controller and Human Resources Manager, is a Lubbock, TX native. She has more than 35 years of bookkeeping, customer service, human resources and accounting experience. Prior to joining CEV Multimedia, Crowell worked as a bookkeeper for a concrete company. She responded to a CEV newspaper ad looking for someone with accounting and software experience and has been an integral part of CEV Multimedia ever since.
Crowell was awarded the Employee of the Year Award in 2012, and in 2013, she was the recipient of the Aubrey N. Davis Family Memorial Award. Crowell says she has enjoyed seeing CEV grow and is proud to be part of a small company that is involved in so many areas of education. Crowell believes CEV's focus on teamwork and collaboration is the key to the company's success.
In her spare time, Crowell enjoys gardening, scrapbooking and making stained glass. She has three dogs and loves to spend time in the mountains.
Customer Service
Cheryl Finkbone
Customer Service Manager
Cheryl Finkbone, Customer Service Manager, is originally from Amarillo, TX, but spent most of her childhood in Romeo, MI. She has spent the majority of her adult years in Carlsbad, NM and Lubbock, TX. Finkbone has a bachelor’s degree in from New Mexico State University and more than 25 years of customer service experience, as well as six years of experience in technical writing. She has been with CEV since May 2012.
Finkbone is extremely passionate and dedicated to iCEV’s customers. She appreciates the teamwork and camaraderie of the customer service team, and she likes to help teachers solve issues so they can use iCEV products successfully.
"My favorite thing is speaking with teachers from across the country and hearing the passion in their voices for what they do," said Finkbone.
Finkbone has been the recipient of several company awards, including the Employee of the Year Award in 2014, the Aubrey N. Davis Family Memorial Award in 2016, the 5-Years of Service Award as well as the Nonni Award in 2020.
"My greatest professional accomplishment to date is becoming Customer Service Manager,” said Finkbone. “My greatest personal accomplishment is raising two independent, intelligent, passionate, beautiful, strong daughters."
Finkbone and her husband, Sean, have two daughters, Tiffani and Chelsea. Chelsea is married to Matt, and they have two sons, Gage and Gavin. When she isn’t assisting teachers, Finkbone can be found spending time with her family or riding Jeeps in the mountains.
Tiffani Finkbone
Customer Service Specialist
Tiffani Finkbone, customer service specialist, had a wide variety of experiences before joining the CEV Multimedia team. Finkbone holds a bachelor’s of art degree with a concentration in art history from Texas Tech University. In her previous work experience, she choreographed shows for the Texas Tech Goin’ Band from Raiderland color guard team.
In her current position, Finkbone enjoys interacting with a variety of people. She says the work environment and getting to help teachers are her favorite parts of her job. Since starting at CEV in August of 2020, Finkbone has learned more about Career and Technical Education. She is inspired by the determination and passion teachers have for their jobs.
"Career & Technical Education provides students the opportunity to better navigate the job market upon graduating high school," said Finkbone.
Finkbone has performed on national television and at Disneyland. In her free time, she loves to paint and spend time cooking.
Cynthia Hernandez
Customer Service Specialist
Cynthia Hernandez, iCEV’s Customer Service Specialist, has over 10 years of experience in customer support.
Hernandez enjoys the fast-paced, family atmosphere at iCEV. She is passionate and dedicated to iCEV’s customers. Each day, Hernandez strives to help teachers be successful with iCEV by providing them the support they need to work through their technological issues.
When Hernandez isn’t providing support for teachers, she enjoys spending time with her kids. She also enjoys playing softball.
Danielle Rodriguez
Customer Service Specialist
Danielle Rodriguez, Customer Service Specialist, is a native of Lubbock, TX, where she graduated from Monterey High School. Prior to joining CEV Multimedia, Rodriguez worked as an operations supervisor.
Rodriquez enjoys her role in customer service and being able to assist teachers.
"I like that I get to interact with the customers as well as sales reps to assist with issues they may be having. I also love how my role allows me to witness and assist all accounts that utilize iCEV. I love the interaction I get to make with them and to hear them say how much they love iCEV."
Through her time at CEV, Rodriquez has come to develop a passion for Career & Technical Education.
"I love that CTE programs/teachers provide skills for students to apply in their future careers. With the help of CTE teachers, students can benefit from the CTE programs their schools offer and have a higher success rate."
Rodriguez also appreciates the history and culture of CEV Multimedia and is passionate about her part in maintaining that upward trajectory.
"I love that the company has come a long way, from videocassettes to online curriculum. It shows with hard work and dedication you can do anything. I also like the people I work with; we all work together as a team to accomplish our tasks."
When she isn't assisting teachers across the country, Rodriguez can be found spending time with her husband and sons or watching sports.
Melissa Rodriguez
Customer Service Specialist
Melissa Rodriguez, Customer Service Specialist, is originally from Marfa, TX but calls Lubbock, TX home. Rodriguez has been with CEV Multimedia for three years. Prior to joining CEV, Rodriguez worked for the State of Texas and has experience as a legal secretary, child support officer, and in customer service.
Rodriguez enjoys the fast-paced atmosphere of customer service and appreciates the teamwork the entire customer service team employs to assist customers in a timely and organized fashion.
Rodriguez enjoys spending time with her husband, Federico, and their children Sara, John, Joshua and Nikki. She also likes to garden, listen to music and run in her free time.
Ashley Sears
Customer Service Specialist
Ashley Sears, Customer Service Specialist, has many years of experience in customer experience, which were primarily in retail and financial institutions before joining CEV Multimedia.
In her current position, Sears enjoys interacting with a wide variety of people. She says, "I love talking to all the different people. On a daily basis, I have the pleasure of talking to our sales reps, teachers and sometimes even students. It is interesting to hear all the different stories that people have to tell. I also enjoy being able to help them with whatever issue they are having and being able to make their lives a little bit easier."
Since starting at CEV, Sears has been able to learn more about the field of Career & Technical Education. She is inspired by the passion teachers have for helping their students succeed.
"I love that CTE starts getting young people prepared for life after school. It provides them with knowledge and skills that will hopefully put them on the path to success."
In her free time, Sears enjoys spending time with her family and her dogs.
Cristina Simons
Customer Service Specialist
Cristina Simons, Customer Service Specialist, brings eight years of customer service experience to the iCEV team.
Simons believes the curriculum and certifications iCEV offers allows teachers, students and the workforce to advance in their personal and professional lives.
Simons enjoys her iCEV co-workers and working with a wide variety of people. She says her favorite part of her role is, “Being able to interact with different individuals on a daily basis and being able to help them in whatever way they may need.”
During her time off, Simons loves spending time with her three pets and two children who keep her on her toes. Simons also enjoys playing tennis and cooking.
Erika Watson
Customer Service Specialist
Erika Watson, Customer Service Specialist, is completing her second year at CEV Multimedia. Prior to joining CEV's customer service team, Watson worked as a legal assistant in family law for 13 years and as a process server for the State of Texas for five years.
Watson enjoys the camaraderie of CEV Multimedia and likes interacting with teachers and sales representatives.
She was the 1992-1993 Fiesta Americana Queen and enjoys crafting and selling makeup products.
Margie Ysasaga
Customer Service Specialist
Margie Ysasaga, Customer Service Specialist, has worked in a variety of careers and fields. She has extensive experience as a police dispatcher and was the vice president of a family owned business for 15 years. She also has also worked as a staffing supervisor, a college career advisor and as a team leader in the retail industry.
Outside of assisting CEV customers, Yasasaga enjoys cooking and spending time with her family.
Technical Support
Thomas Bennett
Technical Support Specialist
Thomas Bennett, Technical Support Specialist, is no stranger to helping teachers with technological issues. In his previous experiences, he worked as a computer technician for 20 years. Before joining the CEV Multimedia team, Bennett served as a Career and Technical Education teacher for two years. In addition to his extensive experience in technology, he has a master’s degree in educational technology.
Bennett was an avid iCEV users while teaching a multitude of CTE courses at Santa Fe High School. He says, "iCEV helped me more than I can ever communicate my first year of teaching. " Bennett’s experience with iCEV helps him relate to teachers and troubleshoot technical issues. He says he enjoys being able to help CTE teachers and "helping others is what drives me from day to day," said Bennett.
"CTE is what prepares students for their future,” said Bennett. “If we can show them anything new that they enjoy; then they will be a lifelong learner and have the ability to develop this joy into something that can help them well into the future."
In his spare time, Bennett enjoys continuing his education and spending time with his wife.
Anthony Perez
Technical Support Specialist
Anthony Perez, technical support specialist, is a Lubbock native. Perez attended the Lubbock Coding Academy where he studied Full-Stack Web Development. Utilizing his background in programming and technology, his role at CEV Multimedia is to assist teachers with iCEV and Learning Management System integrations.
“I find it very rewarding to help teachers. It's great knowing that my assistance helps to reduce teachers’ stress and empowers teachers to become more comfortable in their virtual learning environment,” said Perez.
When Perez is not helping teachers with technical issues, he serves as a tutor for students attending the Lubbock Coding Academy. Additionally, he enjoys playing video games and singing karaoke in his spare time.
Brand Management
Megan O’Quinn
Vice President of Brand Management
Megan O’Quinn, Vice President of Brand Management, has been an asset to the CEV team for more than 15 years. Education has always been a priority for O’Quinn due to her involvement with CTE in high school and her parents being teachers for over 30 years. Because of the influence education has had on her life, she enjoys getting to work with teachers and making their jobs easier every day.
O’Quinn is a proud Texas Tech alum and holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a master’s degree in agricultural communications. O’Quinn started her tenure with CEV while she was in college. Due to her familiarity with the iCEV curriculum, she wanted to be involved in designing curriculum, materials and resources for teachers to use in their classrooms. O’Quinn has worn various hats since joining the CEV team and values the role CTE plays in the lives of students across the country.
"Regardless of whether a student is wanting to go to college, technical school or directly into the workforce, CTE provides students with not only work-related skills but life skills," said O’Quinn. "I know the CTE courses I took while in school not only helped prepare me for college but also how to manage my time and explore areas I was passionate about prior to enrolling in college."
In her current role, she oversees content creation from planning to implementation. O’Quinn also serves as a resource for teachers to learn how to effectively use iCEV and to have their questions answered. "I love that I am able to see and work with our content in all of its phases from planning to production to implementation in classrooms across the U.S.,"said O’Quinn.
During her time at CEV, O’Quinn has been recognized for her dedication and passion to CEV and CTE. In 2011, she was the recipient of the Aubrey N. Davis Family Memorial Award, and in 2013, she was honored as the Employee of the Year. She has also held the position of Commissioner for the iCEV College Football Pick’em.
O’Quinn enjoys reading, watching sports, traveling to National Parks and spending time with her husband, Travis, and their dog, George.
Angela Dehls
Quality Control Director / Adoption Coordinator
Angela Dehls has been a valued member of the CEV team for 20 years. She began as a database assistant and now serves as quality control director and adoption coordinator. Angela holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in child development and is certified in early childhood administration. In 2003, Dehls received the Audrey N. Davis Award and the Employee of the Year Award in 2000 and again in 2017.
In her time at CEV, Dehls has reviewed over 1,500 lessons and has managed the majority of state adoptions for the company. She says the most rewarding project thus far was the recent Texas State Proclamation 2017 adoption.
She enjoys being a part of a company that is helping students succeed in the classroom and excel their futures. She says, “Being a part of a company which has grown from just four employees at one point to where we are today and being able to help our part-time college students develop the skills they need to be successful in their chosen career is a very rewarding experience.”
Angela says her greatest accomplishment raising a responsible, level-headed, and successful son, Justin. For fun, Dehls enjoys listening to music and audiobooks.
Whitney Welch
Lead Instructional Content Specialist
Whitney Welch, Brand Manager, has been with CEV Multimedia for more than three years. Welch was born in Madison, WI and grew up near Lansing, MI. Welch attended Michigan State University for her undergraduate program and earned a degree in professional writing. She attended Colorado State University for graduate school and completed a degree in English rhetoric.
Welch has worked as a writing tutor, teaching assistant, and graphic designer. She also worked as an au pair in Berlin for a year after college.
During her time at CEV Multimedia, Welch has been an integral part of developing several new courses and materials, primarily the forensic science course. Her favorite part of working at CEV is getting to learn about other career areas during the design process of new materials.
"I love hearing people talk about what they're passionate about, so my favorite thing is getting to do interviews with experts. I get to talk to so many awesome smart people and get to see so many cool workplaces that I would never have the opportunity to see otherwise. So many times I've walked away from interviews, feeling like 'Oh my gosh! I need to change careers because this is so cool!' because I get so excited! My goal is always to help this get translated to the materials we make so students get just as excited about the content as I do!"
When she isn't working, Welch enjoys listening to podcasts and going to escape rooms. She also likes to spend time with her pets, Peanut and Moonshine, who she likes to train to do "useless tricks." She also enjoys reading post-modern literature, traveling, knitting and crocheting, and binge-watching television shows.
Rachelle Blinoff-Mudd
Instructional Content Specialist
Rachelle Blinoff-Mudd, Instructional Content Specialist, brings unique experiences and passion to the CEV team. Blinoff-Mudd studied sports medicine at Boston University and later earned her master’s degree in education administration. Upon graduating, she began her career as an athletic trainer and later served as a high school CTE teacher.
Blinoff-Mudd developed her passion for CTE while serving as an athletic trainer and teaching health science courses. As a CTE teacher, she taught Sports Medicine, Human Anatomy and Biotechnology courses.
Blinoff-Mudd is thrilled to join the CEV team. In her role at iCEV, Blinoff-Mudd will be using her classroom experiences to help create curriculum and instructional materials for teachers and students.
"CTE is amazing, because it exposes students to potential career opportunities they may have never considered,” said Blinoff-Mudd. “Even if a student learns they are not interested in the field they are studying, they are still developing employability skills that can be used across many professions while enrolled in CTE courses. "
In her spare time, Blinoff-Mudd is a sports enthusiast. She and her husband travel to various National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball and National Hockey League games each year. She especially enjoys rooting on the Los Angeles Kings, Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Lakers.
Alyssa Tarbet
Instructional Content Specialist
Alyssa Tarbet grew up in Sweetwater, Texas, where the world's largest rattlesnake roundup is held each year. She holds a bachelor's degree in agricultural communications from Texas Tech University. Tarbet has experience working in the agricultural industry, including roles at Elanco, National Sorghum Producers and various livestock shows.
As an Instructional Content Specialist, Tarbet enjoys helping others find and develop their passion and a future career. She uses her skills to develop and write iCEV curriculum for various CTE subjects. Tarbet has had a passion for CTE from a young age.
"I am extremely grateful for the role CTE played in my life, both personally and professionally," said Tarbet. "Through experiential learning, students obtain a set of skills that are marketable in the workforce. I love how CTE and iCEV recognize multiple components of career success and prepares students with a strong knowledge base and skillset."
Tarbet comes from a large family with seven siblings. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Bryce, and their dog, Beaux. Her hobbies include photography, working out, cooking and baking. She also loves to decorate, rearrange and organize her house.
Knikole Taylor
Instructional Content Specialist
Knikole Taylor has an extensive background in Career & Technical Education (CTE). She earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from Texas A&M Commerce and her master’s in education administration from Lamar University. Taylor is currently working on her doctorate at Dallas Baptist University.
Taylor has 19 years of experience in public education. During her time in education, Taylor served as a campus and district administrator for nine years and a teacher for 10 years. Taylor has a passion for designing and delivering learning experiences to students and adults. In her role as an Instructional Content Specialist at iCEV, Taylor will be coupling her previous experiences in education to develop curriculum and instructional materials for iCEV’s online platform.
"I am excited for the opportunity to provide educators the means to help their students succeed through interactive lessons, " said Taylor.
As a bibliophile, Taylor can be found with a book in her hands in her spare time.
Kay Leigh Shannon
Content Developer
Originally from Abilene, Texas, Shannon holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Hardin-Simmons University. She received her first master’s degree from Texas Tech University in communication studies and is currently working on her second master’s degree in mass communications at Texas Tech. In her previous work experiences, Shannon has taught and researched at the collegiate level.
In her previous teaching experiences, Shannon has taught Public Speaking, Writing for Media and Communication, Research Methods, Nonverbal Communication and more at Texas Tech University. She has a passion for education and is excited to continue working in education as a Content Developer at iCEV.
"I appreciate that my teaching experience carries over to my position as a Content Developer, " said Shannon. "I am happy to pursue this opportunity to work with both students and teachers in a different role. "
Shannon believes it is important for students to take the content they are learning in the classroom and apply it to the workforce. Using her background in education, Shannon will be an asset to helping the Brand Management team develop new content for iCEV.
In her time outside of work, Shannon enjoys running, reading and going out to eat at local restaurants. She also enjoys traveling and being involved in community-wide events.
Kim Winfrey
Content Developer
As a Texas native, Kim Winfrey has an extensive background in Career & Technical Education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Tarleton State University. After obtaining her degree, Winfrey pursued a career in public education. With her experience in secondary education, Winfrey brings tremendous insights of modern education to the CEV team.
Winfrey has over 20 years of experience in public education, where she taught business courses at various schools in Texas. Using her classroom experience, she will be developing curriculum and materials for iCEV’s Business, Marketing, Finance, IT and Media courses.
Winfrey has a true passion for CTE and is excited to continue working with CTE teachers at CEV. She admires teachers for their hard work and dedication to their classrooms. As a former teacher, she understands how busy teachers are. "My hope is that I can help teachers be more efficient allowing them to focus on preparing their students for success," said Winfrey.
Winfrey’s entire family was active members of Texas FFA, including her three children. She is a proponent of CTSO’s and equipping students with skills needed to be successful after high school. In her spare time, she enjoys helping teachers prepare students for FFA competitions, interviews and judging events. Winfrey also enjoys traveling and camping with her husband.
David Wise
Content Developer
David Wise, Content Developer, brings a unique perspective and background to the CEV team. Wise has an extensive history working with STEM projects and in the engineering industry. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical and ocean engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. During college, Wise focused his studies on underwater robotics and electric vehicles.
In his hometown, South Lake Tahoe, Wise developed a summer science camp for local students. He has created curriculum and taught multiple classes at the summer camp. His specialties include underwater exploration, soft circuits, robotics and electronics. His extensive background in STEM coupled with his work experiences is a great addition to the iCEV team.
In his role at CEV, Wise will spend his days creating memorable hands-on labs and projects for CTE classrooms. " I love I get to spend my day figuring out how to make STEM subjects engaging and interesting for students, " said Wise.
He is passionate about CTE and is excited to continue working with curriculum within education. "I think CTE is critical to a well-rounded education, "said Wise.
Living in South Lake Tahoe, Wise enjoys spending time outdoors. He can be found mountain biking, paddle boarding, hiking or skiing in his free time. Additionally, he enjoys working on hands-on projects around his house. He is currently building an animatronic R2-D2 in his garage using a 3D printer.
Sara Allen
Quality Control Specialist
After working for CEV part-time since 2014, Sara Allen joined CEV full-time as a quality control specialist in 2020. Allen holds an associate’s degree in photojournalism from South Plains College and a bachelor’s degree in electronic media and communication from Texas Tech University.
As a quality control specialist, Allen has been central to growing the iCEV curriculum library and overseeing the iCEV platform.
“The most enjoyable thing about my role in the quality control department is that I get to have a hand in all the productions in some way. I get to do a lot of behind-the-scenes work in editing content and uploading lessons to our online servers, as well as creating the interactive content we have available. Since starting at CEV, I've learned every aspect of the curriculum, from the beginning research to creating graphics and even the behind-the-scenes online publishing of each lesson - so I get to wear a lot of hats sometimes. This type of knowledge and experience just isn't going to be found anywhere else,” said Allen.
During her time at CEV, Allen has developed a passion for CTE and has particularly enjoyed her work with CTE teachers.
“Working with CTE teachers and instructors has been a wonderful experience. They have been some of the most helpful, patient people I have ever met, and most of them are so incredibly nice. I wish there were more people like that in the world,” said Allen.
Allen is an accomplished journalist and has been publishing noteworthy stories since 2014. When she isn’t writing hard-hitting news, Allen enjoys playing video games and spending time with her pets.
Tasman Keel
Quality Control Specialist
Tasman Keel began working for CEV part-time while earning a B.A. in advertising from Texas Tech. After completing her degree, Keel joined CEV full-time as a production assistant in 2020. Keel has become a central part of CEV’s brand management team and has contributed to several production projects.
“I love the heart that goes in everything we do here! There is so much support and drive from everyone to see a project through. I also love seeing all of the work that it takes to launch a course and how many different departments it involves,” said Keel.
In her position at CEV, Keel has developed a passion for CTE and a particular joy from working with CTE teachers.
“CTE teachers have so much enthusiasm for what they are teaching. They give amazing feedback on what they like and what needs improvement in our lessons!” said Keel.
In her spare time, Keel enjoys runs with her running club, painting and listening to true crime podcasts.
Production
Mike Barley
Editor / Videographer
Mike Barley, Videographer, Editor, T&I Assistant Brand Manager, is originally from Plainview, TX. Barley has been part of the CEV Multimedia team for 30 years. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Corporate Communications from Texas Tech University. During his last semester of college, he worked for the Lubbock CBS affiliate in broadcasting before joining the CEV team.
“I enjoy getting to work on lots of different subjects so it's not the same routine over and over like broadcasting.” says Barley, “As I tell people, I now know a little about a lot of different subjects. I enjoy passing that knowledge on to other employees who work in the brand management department or other areas of the company.”
Barley was the recipient of the 1st ever Employee of the Year Award in 1997 and again in 2002. However, he says his biggest honor was receiving the Aubrey N. Davis Family Memorial Award in 2002 which is named in honor of Gordon Davis's father. Barley was proud to have known him personally and has the utmost admiration.
“I think my greatest accomplishment has been producing quality educational materials that have been used extensively in classrooms all over the country to educate tens of thousands of students and stood the test of time,” says Barley.
In his spare time, you will find Barley tackling DIY projects around his home, bird hunting, fishing, and enjoying photography.
Pamela Hester
Editor / Videographer
Pamela Hester has been part of the CEV production team since 2013. Before joining CEV, Hester worked for local TV stations for more than a decade. Using her expertise in video production, Hester has contributed to several curriculum areas, including agricultural science, family and consumer sciences and architecture, construction, transportation and manufacturing.
Hester enjoys the opportunity to develop creative and entertaining educational materials, and is particularly passionate about the opportunities students can gain from Career & Technical Education.
“CTE gives you a chance to build a useful set of real-world skills. By taking CTE classes in high school, you can tryout different career paths to find what fits you best,” said Hester.
In her spare time, Hester enjoys pursuing creative outlets like crafting and sewing.
Eli Jiménez
Editor/Videographer
Native to Lubbock, TX, Eli Jiménez grew up rooting for the Texas Tech Red Raiders. As a Red Raider, Jiménez earned his bachelor’s degree in creative media industries with a minor in transmedia. Jiménez has a passion for telling stories using digital technologies. Recording, editing and producing videos is Jiménez’s specialty. Using his passion for videography, Jiménez will help bring new iCEV content to life.
Jiménez, iCEV Videographer and Editor, says he enjoys working with such a highly skilled team. Jiménez notes he is getting to learn an array of subjects while editing iCEV videos. "It is fun to learn new information while working," said Jiménez.
"CTE is the backbone of society," said Jiménez. "CTE is the amalgamation of everything a person has learned, which is essential in the modern world. The various topics falling under the umbrella of CTE are immense. It is hard to ignore the fact CTE has shaped the workforce."
Jiménez enjoys listening to new music and catching the latest movie and TV shows. Outside of work, he spends time with his family, travels and reads.
Jake Saye
Editor / Videographer
Originally from Illinois, Jacob Saye, Videographer/Video Editor, has been a member of the CEV team since 2011. Saye earned his bachelor’s degree in radio, television, and film from San Antonio College. His extensive videographer background includes working for the TI-IN Network, in news production as for the Texas Tech Athletics Department.
Working with the Brand Management Team, Saye captures audio and video for iCEV lessons and materials. He says his favorite part about is job is interacting with industry experts from a variety of industries and making videos with them.
"The best part about working at CEV is the freedom of choice and ability to use my creativity to make content that students find engaging," said Saye.
Saye enjoys the opportunity to travel while working at iCEV. He says, "Working for iCEV has allowed me to travel and exposed me to a variety of different topics and people."
When Saye is not looking through a lens, he enjoys spending time with his two daughters.
Melody Rowell
Lead Animator & Graphic Designer
Melody Rowell, Lead Animator and Graphics Designer, is a graduate of Pacific Northwest College of Art with a master’s degree in collaborative design with a focus in animation and production. She has expereince in 2D and 3D animation, infographic design and illustration.
In her position at iCEV, Rowell integrated animation and 3D graphics into iCEV Productions in 2009. During her 10 years as a Graphics Designer at CEV, Rowell has enjoyed learning more about a variety of subjects that she otherwise would not have been exposed to.
"I learn something new every day, " said Rowell. "Whether it’s the anatomy of the cardiovascular system or the history of toxicology, I’m learning about different subjects all of the time. The first animation I ever created for iCEV was explaining the reproductive systems of farm animals, and that’s something I never thought I’d encounter. "
Rowell says the work environment is another thing she enjoys about working for iCEV. "The team at iCEV is great, and I am so thankful to work with a great group of people," said Rowell. "I also appreciate the fact that CEV Multimedia wants the best for its employees. In my case, they allowed me to pursue an MFA in design so I could grow as a designer and bring a higher level of skill to my position."
When she is not designing outstanding graphics, Rowell enjoys drawing, expanding her creative abilities and playing video games. She also has experience in stand-up comedy. Rowell has two guinea pigs, Phillip and Kevin.
Marketing
Kimberly Cantrell
Marketing Manager
Kimberly Cantrell joined CEV Multimedia as the Content Development Specialist before transitioning to the Business & Industry Partnerships Department as the Marketing & Communications Specialist. In March 2021, Cantrell returned to her roots in the Marketing Department to lead CEV's creative team as the Marketing Manager. Growing up on the border of Texas and New Mexico, Cantrell says she has two hometowns, Texline, TX and Clayton, NM. She earned a bachelor's degree in agricultural media and communications from West Texas A&M University and holds a master's degree from Texas Tech University in agricultural communications. Cantrell has experience in a variety of communications and marketing areas, including technical and feature writing, social media management, event planning, photography and design.
Growing up in a rural area, Cantrell was involved in her family's farm and cattle operation. Through these experiences, as well as her involvement in 4-H and FFA, she developed a passion for the agriculture industry and science communication. Coming from a family of teachers, she also has a strong appreciation for those involved in the field of education, especially Career & Technical Education.
"At CEV, I am able to pair my passion for education with my love of science communication. I love that our materials are able to assist teachers while also expanding individuals' knowledge about the opportunities that can come through Career & Technical Education and earning industry certifications."
In addition to her position at CEV, Cantrell also teachers a scientific writing course in the Agricultural Education and Communications Department at Texas Tech University. In her free time, Cantrell enjoys spending time outdoors. She can be found playing fetch with her dog, Scout, or taking Scout hiking or to the lake. She is an avid runner and trains for half marathons. Cantrell also enjoys outdoor photography, reading and listening to podcasts.
Chelsea Bermea
Lead Graphic Designer
Chelsea Bermea started as an intern for CEV Multimedia before being promoted to Marketing Assistant after a year with the company. Bermea is originally Levelland, TX, and she holds a degree in design communications from South Plains College.
Bermea is passionate about Career & Technical Education because she has seen the effects it has had on her own life. She was an active member of FCCLA in high school, eventually holding the office of president and says that CTE courses made her better prepared for the workforce.
During her time at CEV, Bermea has won the Best/Most Creative Halloween costume in 2016, and during the development of the Forensic Science course, she won the Forensic Fact Finder game in 2017.
Bermea enjoys cooking, playing with her dogs, redecorating her house and watching her favorite TV shows.
Jacelyn Nesmith
Event Coordinator
Jacelyn Nesmith is the newest addition to the iCEV marketing team. Originally from Levelland, Texas, Nesmith holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications from Texas Tech University and has recently obtained a master’s degree in community and leadership development, specializing in agricultural education, from the University of Kentucky.
Her background, experiences and proficiency in agricultural communications and education will allow her to effectively communicate the successes of CTE educators utilizing the iCEV platform through various communication outlets. She appreciates the fact iCEV offers readily available educational materials to teachers across the United States. “Career and Technical Education teachers selfishly provide life-long strategies and opportunities to those who pass through their classrooms,” said Nesmith. “I love the fact iCEV provides engaging and interactive materials to teachers to make their lives a bit easier.”
On weekends and after work you can find her outdoors, traveling or with a good book in hand. Nesmith enjoys spending time with family and friends as well as engaging in new adventures.
Maria Cortez
Marketing Assistant
Maria Cortez began working at iCEV as a marketing intern while earning her associate’s in graphic arts. Upon earning her degree, Cortez joined the iCEV team full-time as a marketing assistant. Cortez has been instrumental to the marketing team and has seen multiple projects to the end.
“I love being a part of a team that gets along so well to fulfill goals. Being able to work on graphics, and seeing them printed, mailed out or even posted on social media is exciting.”
During her time at iCEV, Cortez has developed a passion for CTE. She believes CTE courses open doors for students. From working at iCEV, Cortez wishes her school would have had CTE courses for her to be involved in.
Cortez is still a full-time student working towards a degree in criminal justice from South Plains College. When she isn’t at work or in school, Cortez enjoys reading and listening to true crime. She is also quite the artist and uses her talents to paint.
Xavier Cruz
Marketing Assistant
Xavier Cruz, Marketing Assistant, has been with CEV Multimedia for six years. He earned his bachelor's degree in design communications from Lubbock Christian University. Cruz enjoys using his creative abilities to contribute to the field of education. He believes visually stimulating graphics can play a big role in educating and inspiring individuals.
In 2016, Cruz received the scariest costume award at the annual CEV Halloween costume contest.
In his free time, Cruz enjoys spending time with his wife, Kim, and their dogs. Together, they like spending time outdoors, exercising and cooking.
Christian Valdez
Marketing Assistant
Christian Valdez, Marketing Assistant, has been with CEV Multimedia for six years. Valdez grew up in Plains, TX and holds a degree in design communications from South Plains College.
In his role at CEV, Valdez enjoys seeing the design process go from idea to reality. He has been a leader in developing the Career Cluster Poster series.
Valdez enjoys spending time outdoors, especially camping and playing disc golf. He also plays for a recreational soccer league.