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.
Syndey 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.
Business & Industry Partnerships
Kelli Neuman
Director of Business & Industry Partnerships
Kelli Neuman has joined the CEV Multimedia team as the Director of Business and Industry Partnerships 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 has 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 CEV Multimedia and our industry partners' behalf, Neuman enjoys chasing new experiences and expanding her knowledge about a variety of subjects. She also enjoys traveling, practicing yoga, and spending time outdoors.
Kimberly Cantrell
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Kimberly Cantrell joined CEV Multimedia as the Content Development Specialist. 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 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.
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 business degree 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 for more than six years.
Finkbone is extremely passionate and dedicated to CEV Multimedia's customer service. She appreciates the teamwork and camaraderie of the customer service team, and she likes to help teachers solve issues so they can use CEV products successfully.
"My favorite thing is speaking with teachers from across the country and hearing the passion in their voices for what they do."
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, and the 5-Years of Service Award.
"My greatest professional accomplishment to date is becoming Customer Service Manager. 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.
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 Yasasaga
Customer Service Specialist
Margie Yasasaga, 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.
Brand Management
Megan O’Quinn
Director of Brand Management
Megan O’Quinn, Director of Brand Management, has been with CEV Multimedia for more than 12 years. Originally from Eastland, TX, O’Quinn was extremely involved in FFA and 4-H, and in high school, several of her agriculture science, business and graphic design classes utilized CEV curriculum. When she moved to Lubbock, TX for college, O’Quinn applied to CEV Multimedia due to her familiarity with the materials. She was hired as a part-time worker in the production department and has been helping to create educational materials and curriculum for CEV ever since. O’Quinn is a proud Texas Tech alum and has a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a master’s degree in agricultural communications. She also coached an undefeated, National Championship meat judging team at Clarendon College.
O’Quinn is passionate about Career & Techincal Education and providing students with the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.
“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. 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. My favorite part of CEV is being a part of a team that is striving to create a product that is on cutting edge of CTE curriculum to help teachers prepare their students for the workforce.”
Both O’Quinn’’s parents were teachers, and because of their influence, she enjoys getting to work with teachers and make their jobs as easy as possible.
“In my role at CEV, I enjoy getting to work in all of the aspects of curriculum development from gathering state standards and benchmarks to working with industry and academic experts, to interacting with teachers utilizing iCEV in their classrooms. It is really exciting when I get to see teachers using curriculum that I have helped develop in their classrooms and their students being engaged and enjoying learning when using it.”
During her time at CEV, O’Quinn has been recognized for her dedication and passion for the mission of CEV Multimedia on several occasions. 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 positions of
O’Quinn enjoys reading, crafting and watching or attending sporting events, especially the Olympics. In her free time, she likes to spend time and travel with her husband, Travis, and their dog, a Shih Tzu who has two different colored eyes.
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
Brand Manager
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.
Kellie Pond
Brand Manager
Kelli Pond, Brand Manager, grew up on a cotton farm in Lyford, TX. She earned a degree in agricultural development with a minor in European history from Texas A&M University. Prior to working at CEV Multimedia, Pond taught middle school math and science.
Pond has been with CEV for more than seven years and has enjoyed watching the company change to address the current needs of education and industry. One of Pond's greatest contributions to iCEV has been transcribing every iCEV video.
"I came back to work at CEV right as iCEV was being created. It’s been very rewarding to be able to see what it has become in the past 7 years. It has been amazing to watch it grow into what we all dreamed it could be!"
Pond and her husband, Ansen, have two children Kennedy and Harrison, who keep them very busy. Pond enjoys family activities, reading and cooking. She also has a passion for interior design and decorating and organizing spaces.
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 with her husband and playing with their pets.
Merah Barbee
Production Assistant
Merah Barbee joined the CEV team as a part-time production assistant and became a full-time employee in 2020 after earning a degree from Texas Tech. Before joining CEV, Barbee held a variety of positions, including teaching assistant, ranch hand and receptionist at a veterinary clinic.
“What I like most about CEV Multimedia is the people. Every morning when I walk into work, I am greeted by someone new. Everyone whom I have met at CEV Multimedia is friendly, helpful, and extremely hardworking,” said Barbee.
Barbee has dual citizenship between the U.S and Australia. Growing up, Barbee was an active member in 4-H and showed goats for more than 10 years. Barbee’s mom was an agricultural education teacher, and Barbee grew to respect the passion and dedicate CTE teachers have for their students. Her current role at CEV allows her to give back to CTE teachers like her mom.
“The aspect of my role at CEV Multimedia that I enjoy the most is that I am always learning something new. Whether it's a new topic or a new skill, my day is constantly filled with tidbits of knowledge, and I look forward to learning more still,” said Barbee.
Outside of work, Barbee enjoys spending time with her husband and their pets. Barbee is a talented artist and enjoys working with ceramics, drawing, graphic design and sewing.
Tasman Keel
Production Assistant
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.
Jake Saye
Editor / Videographer
Originally from Illinois, Jake Saye, Videographer/Video Editor, has been a member of the CEV Multimedia team for six years. Saye earned his bachelor's degree in radio, television, and film from San Antonio College. Prior to working for CEV, Saye worked as a video coordinator for the Texas Tech football team.
During his time at CEV, Saye has worked on over 30 projects. Saye says, “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.”
His favorite project so far has been the creation of the Forensic Science course. “It is something I’m really interested in and is a new subject for CEV,” says Saye.
Saye has also enjoyed the opportunity to travel with his work at CEV. Saye says, “Working for CEV has allowed me to travel and exposed me to a variety of different topics and people.”
Melody Rowell
Graphics Designer
Melody Rowell, Graphics Designer, is a graduate of Pacific Northwest College of Art with an MFA in collaborative design with a focus in animation and production. She has expertise in 2D and 3D animation, infographic design and illustration.
In her position at CEV Multimedia, Rowell integrated animation and 3D graphics into CEV Multimedia Productions in 2009. During her time as the Graphics Designer, 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. 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 CEV was explaining the reproductive systems of farm animals, and that's something I never thought I'd encounter."
Rowell says the employee focused is another thing she enjoys about working for CEV Multimedia. "The team at CEV Multimedia is great, and I am so thankful to work with a great group of people.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
Hilary Jasper
Marketing Manager
Hilary Jasper has been a part of the CEV team for over five years. Jasper is originally from Palmer, TX but moved to Lubbock shortly after she was born.
Before coming to CEV, Jasper worked in retail as an assistant manager and later obtained her associate’s degree in design communications. Upon graduation, Jasper began an internship at CEV and became a full-time marketing assistant after six months.
“I love seeing responses from teachers, through email and on social media, who along with their students, are benefiting from our curriculum program,” explained Jasper. She is responsible for everything from managing personnel to campaign and content creation and to art and communications. “It’s never boring,” says Jasper, “the marketing field is constantly changing, so there are endless learning opportunities.”
When Jasper began working for CEV, the company was in the midst of creating its first online platform, iCEV. “At the time, I didn’t have a lot of experience related to web design, but after helping with the development of the original iCEV platform, as well as a website redesign later on, my skills grew tremendously in that area.”
Jasper and her husband, Matt, have been married for 11 years and have two children, a 17-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter. In their spare time, Jasper and her family love catching the latest movies, playing video games and attending concerts.
Chelsea Bermea
Convention Coordinator
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
Content Development Specialist
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
Christain 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.