Executive Board

Biography

Jessie Sanchez is a teacher and coach at James River High School in Midlothian. After competing in Forensics and participating in theatre at Monacan High School and Longwood University, Jessie knew she wanted to help students find their voices and confidence through the art of performance and speech. In addition to serving on the VAFTDC board for several years, Jessie also serves as the NSDA District Chair for Virginia. She has coached quite a few speakers to Nationals and State Championships- two of whom are her own children Maria (19) and Joey (16).

Biography

William (Billy) teaches World History at Cosby High School, where he also co-sponsors the debate and forensics teams. He is a former Policy debater at Prince Edward County High, where he trained under Hall-of-Fame coach, Nancy Phaup. Billy has 20 years of experience in both forensics and debate, having competed, judged, coached, tabbed, and organized tournaments in various leagues and invitationals. He currently serves as a member of the VHSL's Debate, Drama, and Forensics Advisory Committee. 

Billy joined the organization in 2015 and was later appointed to fill the vacant newsletter editor position (which was renamed Historian). He was awarded the honor of VAFTDC Debate Coach of the Year in 2017. He was elected Vice-President of the organization in 2018, and took over the reigns of President in 2020.

Biography

Biography

Biography

Biography

Luis Velasco teaches English at Glen Allen High School. He previously taught Middle School English in Florida. At both schools, he has co-coached the Speech and Debate team. The process of helping students find their voice is a reward of its on, having helped first time middle schoolers from an inner city school to NSDA Nationals and high school students to States multiple years in a row.