2026 NLC Pedagogy Conference

Justin Eccles is the Department Chair and an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Palo Alto College. He is committed to fostering student success through engaging instruction, collaborative leadership, and inclusive learning environments. In addition to his work at Palo Alto College, Justin is a PhD student at Texas State University, where his academic interests further inform his teaching and leadership. He is passionate about innovative pedagogy, professional growth, and advancing equity and excellence in the community college setting. 

With more than 20 years of experience in education, Heather Draker is a veteran educator, teacher trainer, and professional development designer. She spent 20 years teaching high school social studies, where she built a strong foundation in curriculum design, student engagement, and classroom leadership. For the past 18 years, Heather has taught sociology at Northwest Vista College, guiding students to think critically about society, culture, and social systems. 

In addition to classroom teaching, Heather has dedicated 15 years to training and mentoring new teachers, supporting them in developing effective instructional practices, classroom management strategies, and reflective teaching habits. Drawing on this extensive experience, she designs and delivers professional development courses that help educators refine their skills, strengthen their confidence, and adapt to the evolving demands of today’s classrooms.

Known for a practical, learner-centered approach, Heather is passionate about empowering students and teachers to grow, innovate, and thrive. 

Miya Hunter-Willis joined the Social Sciences Department at Northeast Lakeview College in Fall 2023 where she teaches American History and African American History. Before joining the faculty at NLC, she taught at Baltimore Community College, Catonsville and Dundalk campuses, as well as Kingdom Building Bible Institute, a satellite campus for Chesapeake Bible College and Seminary.Hunter-Willis earned her B.A. in African American Studies and Psychology from the University of Virginia. She continued her education by earning a M.A. in History from Marshall University. Her research interests include early African American history, the history of literacy and education, and Women's Studies. Her favorite place to intern was at the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities under Dr. Jerome Handler (Charlottesville, Virginia), where she was instrumental in conducting research for one the first comprehensive websites documenting images from The Atlantic Slave Trade. Hunter-Willis earned her B.A. in African American Studies and Psychology from the University of Virginia. She continued her education by earning a M.A. in History from Marshall University. Her research interests include early African American history, the history of literacy and education, and Women's Studies. Her favorite place to intern was at the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities under Dr. Jerome Handler (Charlottesville, Virginia), where she was instrumental in conducting research for one the first comprehensive websites documenting images from The Atlantic Slave Trade. Before returning to academia, Hunter-Willis was a stay-at-home mom. During that time, she served her community in a variety of ways including (but not limited to): tutoring middle school students, volunteering for Maryland History Day, being the Team Mom for her son's soccer team, and serving consecutive terms as a PTA President. What is more, Miya Hunter-Willis had the distinct privilege of being a Community Editorial Board writer for the Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper, The Capital Gazette. Currently, Miya Hunter-Willis is the faculty advisor for the Black Student Union, a member of the Global Education Committee, and a proud member of the Faculty-Student Mentor Program. She enjoys visiting museums, traveling, and laughing—a lot! Her most noteworthy accomplishment is being the wife of Dr. George Willis for 22 years and a mother of four. She's thrilled to be a part of Alamo Colleges where every student has a chance at a better future.

I bring over 30 years of combined experience in education and clinical practice to my work in psychology. Originally from Michigan, I relocated to Texas approximately 15 years ago and have continued to build a career grounded in teaching, service, and applied psychological practice.

My career in higher education began as a Program Director for a college preparatory program, where I supported student academic readiness and transition to higher education. My experience in higher education now spans more than 14 years and began at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where I taught undergraduate education majors. For the past two years, I have served as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at St. Philip’s College, focusing on student-centered instruction, applied learning, and academic mentorship. Additionally, I serve as faculty advisor for the Psychology Club at St. Philip’s College.

In addition to teaching, I have served as a Clinical Field Instructor for Wayne State University and Fayetteville State University, providing supervision and mentorship to graduate-level students in clinical and applied settings.

My professional background includes working in corrections education, special and general education, private practice, juvenile detention, vocational rehabilitation, substance abuse treatment, and community mental health. These experiences inform my teaching and allow me to integrate practical, real-world perspectives into the classroom.

I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a specialty in substance abuse and other addictive behaviors and am a board-certified clinical supervisor. I also hold master’s degrees in social work, Special Education (all categories), and Rehabilitation Counseling.

Outside of my professional responsibilities, I enjoy reading, writing, Pilates, bowling, and traveling with my family.

Marisol is a Math Instructor at San Antonio College. She was born and raised in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. She has a mathematics degree from UTRGV. Marisol has experience teaching math courses from middle school through undergraduate college.