San Jacinto College speech and debate professor Leigh-Anne Williams felt confident, positive, and energetic after appearing on the “What Not to Wear” television show. Photo credit: Rob Vanya, San Jacinto College marketing department.

Speech professor gets fashion makeover on popular TLC show

Rob Vanya, July 10, 2012

HOUSTON –San Jacinto College speech and debate professor Leigh-Anne Williams was the special guest on a recent episode of TLC’s popular “What Not to Wear” television show.

Williams was nominated for the show by her longtime friend Ashley Frankson, and her co-worker Floyd McConnell, who also teaches speech and debate at the College.

Stylists Stacy London and Clinton Kelly offered Williams gift cards valued at $5,000 to spend on a new wardrobe, but only if she would agree to let the stylists throw away any items of her old wardrobe that they considered undesirable.

The wife and mother of three said that London and Kelly helped her to realize that her loose-fitting, “comfy” duds did little for her figure; that comfort and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive; that finishing touches, like shoes and accessories, make a drastic difference in pulling a look together.

Makeup artist Carmindy taught her how to brighten up her face without fundamentally changing her routine, and hair stylist Ted Gibson gave her a cleaner shape and touch of red.

Through the entire makeover process, Williams was a good sport and demonstrated a great attitude. So, what has the new image done for her?

“My experience on ‘What not to Wear’ was overwhelmingly positive,” she commented. “Stacy and Clinton helped me to realize that it is possible to be comfortable and fashionable at the same time, and that finishing touches are worth the extra effort. I left the show feeling very confident, positive, and energetic.”

Williams, who lives in Humble, serves as co-captain of the College’s nationally acclaimed debate team. She was recently named 2011 Educator of the Year by the Texas Intercollegiate Forensics Association, an organization that coordinates speech and debate activities and tournaments for colleges and universities throughout the state.   

About San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, industries and maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has been serving the citizens of East Harris County, Texas, for more than 50 years. The Achieving the Dream Leader College is committed to the goals and aspirations of a diverse population of 30,000 students in more than 200 degree and certificate options, including university transfer and career preparation. Students also benefit from the College’s job training programs, renowned for meeting the needs of growing industries in the region. San Jacinto College graduates contribute nearly $630 million each year to the Texas workforce. San Jacinto College. Your Goals. Your College.

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