Dr. Debbie Lakay Stinson is an elementary school teacher of 20 years, author, counselor, mother of four very talented children, and grandmother of three. Through her three main initiatives, Debbie has become a role model and an advocate for higher education, music and the arts, as well educating and supporting families with children and/or relatives stricken with cancer by attempting to start her foundation to fight cancer. Dr. Debbie became a Christian at the age of 13 years old. Growing up in Texas she was involved with teaching bible school classes, facilitating for ladies workshops and ladies day programs, as well as, being well known for singing all over the south with family and friends. Speaking of singing, she moved to Oakland, CA., in 1986 where she became a member of Unique A Capella Ensemble. She has performed in many professional settings such as recording in studios, additionally, tried out for Star Search years ago. She has recorded one musical project called, "Next Chapter" with Unique and has sang lead and background vocals on other musical projects with other A Capella Ensembles. After moving to San Diego, she attended 61st and Division Street Church of Christ where she directed the youth group "One Accord" for 10 years. During this time, she taught these kids to sing four part harmony in various songs and settings. One Accord started out singing in hospitals, rest homes, rescue missions, hospice facilities, and homeless shelters outside of other local youth church functions. Dr. Debbie has used her singing talent in other settings, for example, schools, singing various anthems, such as "Lift Every Voice and Sing," talent shows, weddings, and funerals. At present, she teaches piano/key boarding and gives vocal lessons at the guitar center in La Mesa, CA. A product of Waco Independent School District, she graduated from high school in 1980. Dr. Debbie studied Sociology and Physical Therapy at Southwestern Christian College, graduated with an AA degree in 1982. Not to mention, was recruited as a basketball star, named "Most Athletic Freshman" and was ranked 6th in the nation for scoring, which has never been done by anyone at this institution. After graduating from United States International University, in 1995, she went on to obtain a Masters in Multicultural Education in 1998 from the same institution. In 2000, Dr. Debbie received her teaching credential, in 2005, an administrative credential in 2006, and in 2008, Dr. Debbie enrolled into the Ph.D. program at Capella University in Minneapolis, MN. After 10 years of constant struggle, she persevered through family problems, a broken wrist, and breast cancer, yet and still graduated with a Doctorate in Philosophy in Education in August, 2018. Moreover, Dr. Debbie moved to San Diego, CA, in 1990. She worked with Disability and Adult Programs as a Program Technician and Administrative Secretary for 13 years. While there, she continued her schooling to become a teacher and received her teacher credential a few years later. She began working with San Diego Unified School District in August 2000. After which, she was named "Teacher of the Year" in 2012. Hence, I pray that my work inspires others to challenge themselves and follow their dreams no matter what negative influences are before them.
