Supporting Thespians in the Lone Star State
Student Leaders ​(State Thespians Officers and Ambassadors) exemplify and promote Texas Thespians over the course of their term. 
  • State Thespians Officers enhance and exhibit leadership skills, respect for individual differences, building consensus, academic excellence, and modeling appropriate behaviors at all times, both in and outside of school and Texas Thespians events. 
  • Student Ambassadors promote public awareness of the value and impact of Theatre Education by educating, encouraging, and empowering students to use their own voice to advocate for their programs across Texas.
Contact and follow ​your Student Leaders  :

2024 - 2025 State Thespian Officers

AMBASSADOR Anvesha Subramanian​
Anvesha Subramanian is a Junior representing Ridge Point High School, Troupe 7678. Her most notable roles have been Vana Fish in The Spongebob Musical (which was selected as a Mainstage Musical for Texas Thespians) and competing with the cast of The Cover of Life as Addie Mae in UIL. As a proud minority in an underrepresented space, she wants to make theatre the most diverse space it can be to broaden theatre’s beneficial influence. Outside of theatre, she is heavily involved in STEM projects such as independent research addressing novel ways to help the community and, overall, is passionate about bridging the illusionary gap between STEM and the Arts. She is excited to serve as an Ambassador for the upcoming school year.
STO Armie Melton
Armie Melton is a Senior at Chaparral High School and is proudly serving as the Vice President of Troupe 11162. Some of her favorite theatrical roles include Persephone in Hadestown: Teen Edition, Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, and Lady Macbeth in Macbeth. Armie's theatre experience has given her numerous opportunities to explore her passion in the arts, as well as help her develop a powerful sense of confidence and creativity in everything she does. When Armie is not performing on stage or helping lead her Troupe, she enjoys serving her community through volunteer work, and promoting school spirit as the Chaparral High School mascot. Armie aspires to one day have a career in Arts Administration in hopes of continuing to foster the magic of theatre from behind the curtain. She is excited to help create a longstanding legacy within her Troupe, community, and the entire Texas Thespian Organization.
AMBASSADOR Julia Acevedo
Julia Acevedo is a senior at Clear Springs High School and a three-year Thespian Board Officer for Troupe 7418. Her favorite theatrical experiences include playing Matilda in *Matilda* and serving as Choreographer and Dance Captain for *Mamma Mia* and *Hadestown: Teen Edition*. Theatre has helped Julia grow in self-confidence and discover a deep love for who she is. She is active in NHS, represents a local photographer, and is involved in her church community. As a student leader, Julia is committed to uplifting others and inspiring growth both on and off the stage. She aspires to pursue a career that challenges her and allows her to help others become the best version of themselves.
STO Gabriela Moncivais
STO Gabriela MoncivaisGabriela Moncivais is a Senior at Mesquite High School and currently serves as President of Troupe 562. Some of her most cherished theatre memories include performing as Sob Sister in Radium Girls alongside lifelong friends and collaborating with fellow officers to plan meaningful troupe events. Outside of theatre, Gabriela is Captain of the MHS Dance Company, trains at the Page Parkes Center for Modeling & Acting, and balances a rigorous academic schedule with AP and dual credit courses. Theatre has helped her grow in confidence and connect with diverse experiences, fueling her passion to pursue a career in acting. She is thrilled to begin this new chapter as a Student Leader and looks forward to collaborating with the inspiring individuals on her team.​
STO Kaeden Johnson
Kaeden Johnson is a Junior at Rock Hill High School and is very actively involved in troupe 10044. His favorite theatrical appearances was acting in his first ever musical, the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and his troupes 2023-2024 UIL production of the Cover of Life that went to region. Theater has allowed Kaeden to grow as a person, meet many new friends, and learn how to be a leader. Outside of theater, Kaeden likes to spend time with his friends and family and watching sports. He is also apart of media at his school where he hopes to cover lots of theater and sports. Kaeden is also very dedicated to his education and strives for straight A's. He is very excited to help make important decisions for theater in Texas, meet new people, and help share the benefits of theater during his time as a Student Leader for Texas Thespians.
AMBASSADOR Olivia Bocox
Olivia Bocox is a Senior at Celina High School and currently serves as president of Troupe 7585. Some highlights from her theatrical career are playing Marty in Grease and Alice in Alice By Heart. Theatre has allowed her to creatively express herself with confidence and discover her passion of social media marketing and theatre education. Outside of theatre, she participates in UIL Speech and Debate and serves as her school's varsity cheer Mic Master. Olivia is passionate about advocating for greater funding and accessibility of theatre departments across Texas, and she uses her skills in public relations to achieve her goal. She is overjoyed to foster the next generation of young artists as a Texas Thespians Student Ambassador.
STO Emerson Harris
Emerson Harris is a Senior at Kingwood Park High School and proudly serves as President of her troupe. Her favorite roles include Flounder in The Little Mermaid and Anne Boleyn in Royal Gambit. Emerson serves on the Texas Thespians Social Media Committee and finds great joy in contributing to its work. She plans to pursue a career in advertising and theatre education, with hopes of remaining in Texas. Through theatre, Emerson has built meaningful connections with Thespians across the state and looks forward to continuing that journey. As a State Thespian Officer, she is excited to strengthen those bonds and share her passion for theatre with others.
AMBASSADOR Tyrese Clark
Tyrese is a Senior at Hightower High School and currently serves as Publicity Chair for Troupe 5864. He has performed in numerous productions, including The Lion King and Shrek, and has enhanced his skills through various summer camps and theatre events. Theatre has been a space for Tyrese to grow, connect, and share meaningful stories. Beyond the stage, he is a dedicated student leader, passionate about inspiring others and advocating for the arts. Tyrese looks forward to meeting new people and creating lasting memories as an Ambassador while celebrating the magic of theatre.
AMBASSADOR Christian Hough
Christian Hough is a Senior at Jordan High School, and currently serves as Philanthropy Chair for troupe 10042. He enjoys working on crew for various shows, especially prop design and construction. His favorite show that he has been a part of was Rock of Ages, where he worked on the sound crew. Besides theatre, Christian is passionate about music and is president of Jordan Chess Club. He plans to become an engineer in the future. Christian is excited to give a voice to theatre technicians across Texas and represent them as a Texas Thespians Student Ambassador!
STO Madeline Catena
Maddie Catena is a Senior at Katy High School and has served as an officer for three years. She currently serves as the Historian for Troupe 5168! She is also a co-captain for the ComedySportz team at her school. Her favorite theatrical appearances were as Prentiss in Peter and the Starcatcher and ensemble in Ghetto. Outside of theatre, she is a Science National Honor Society officer and the German Club Publicist. She is proudly in NHS, ENHS, and Mu Alpha Theta. Additionally, she is dedicated to her school work and is in the top 1% of her class. Reading and collecting pokemon cards are also some of her top hobbies. She loves cats and crocheting! Maddie is beyond excited to share warmth and kindness in the Texas Thespians program and help to make the community even more inclusive and comfortable. She is ecstatic to meet and learn from other Thespians as an STO on the Social Media Committee.
AMBASSADOR Brigid Morgan
Brigid Morgan is a Senior at Cleburne High School and proudly serves as President of Troupe 2032. Her favorite roles include June in Anatomy of Gray and puppeteering Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors. Theatre has given Brigid lasting memories, meaningful lessons, and a close-knit community she deeply values. She enjoys creative gifting—combining graphic design, crafting, and heartfelt messages to create personalized keepsakes for her troupe and loved ones. Academically, Brigid ranks in the top 1% of her class and is committed to excellence in all she pursues. As a Student Leader, she hopes to spark positivity and inspire fellow Thespians to reach their fullest potential.
STO Matthew Moland-Hicks
Matthew Moland-Hicks is a Senior at Klein High School and serves as President of Troupe 90. Outside of theatre, he is Treasurer of the National Honor Society and a Klein Standleader. Matthew enjoys spending time with friends and playing competitive pickleball. With a theatre journey starting at age eight, he is passionate about performing and proud to be a Texas Thespian. His favorite role was Pepper in Mamma Mia!, for which he received a Tommy Tune Award. He also enjoys comedy, having played Oscar Jaffe in Ken Ludwig’s Twentieth Century. Matthew plans to pursue acting after high school and is excited to spread positivity and enthusiasm as a Texas Thespians Student Leader.
AMBASSADOR Sadie Royer
Sadie Royer is a Junior at Brenham High School and an officer of Troupe 1315, where she brings creativity and passion to roles like Michael Hobbs in Elf Jr., Jim Hawkins in Treasure Island, and Jetsam in The Little Mermaid. Theatre allows her to express herself and bring joy to others. Beyond theatre, Sadie serves as Executive Secretary of her city’s Anchor Club, Executive Vice President of Student Council, and Vice President of her Junior class. She ranks in the top 2% of her class and plans to study software engineering at Rice University. Sadie is excited to serve as a Texas Thespians Ambassador for 2025-2026 and inspire fellow Thespians.
STO Nyla Matthews
Nyla Matthews is a Senior at Cypress Woods High School and serves as Morale Officer for Troupe 7050. Her favorite roles include Tilly in She Kills Monsters and Stage Manager for Addams Family. Theatre has allowed her to express herself and build meaningful connections. Outside of theatre, Nyla is involved in PALs, a leadership and mentoring program. Passionate about creating safe spaces for youth, she plans to become a pediatric nurse. Nyla is excited to support fellow Thespians in being their authentic selves.
AMBASSADOR Catherine Cockrell
Catherine Cockrell is a Senior at Plano West Senior High School and the President of ITS Troupe 6101. Her favorite roles include Boo in The Last Night of Ballyhoo and Sandra in The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong. She values the strong community theatre has given her and looks forward to sharing that experience with others. Outside theatre, Catherine is President of her school’s National Honor Society and a finalist in multiple national Speech and Debate tournaments. As a Student Leader, she is excited to inspire creativity and the power of collaboration.
STO Emma D'Andria
STO Emma D’Andria is a Senior at Frisco High School, proudly representing Troupe 75034. A passionate and versatile theatre artist, Emma has explored directing, teaching, acting, singing, and much more throughout her journey. She is thrilled to serve on the STO board, eager to connect with fellow Thespians across Texas and help enrich their educational experiences. Emma looks forward to inspiring and empowering theatre students statewide with her enthusiasm and dedication!
STO Ginger Brown
Ginger Brown is a Junior at Montgomery High School and Vice President of Troupe #5986. With nine years of theatre experience, her favorite role is Tess Moffat in Blue Stockings. She values the supportive community and creative outlet theatre provides. Outside of theatre, Ginger is Historian for the National Honor Society and participates in speech and debate. In her free time, she enjoys studying, playing guitar, reading, and shopping with friends. Ginger is excited to serve as a State Thespian Officer this year.
AMBASSADOR Corvus McKay
Corvus McKay is a Senior at Walnut Grove High School and represents Troupe 12311. His notable roles include Enjolras in Les Misérables, Paul Sycamore in You Can’t Take It With You, and the Cat in the Hat in Seussical. Theatre has boosted his confidence and helped him form lasting friendships. Outside theatre, Corvus is a choir leader, National Honor Society service coordinator, and works at Target. As a student leader, he aims to empower others to become leaders in their communities.
STO Richie Spicer
Richie Spicer is a Senior at Foster High School and proudly serves as President of Troupe #7961. Some of his most memorable theatrical moments include bringing to life the adventurous Passepartout in Around the World in 80 Days and the witty Cedric in Puffs. Richie’s passion for theatre shines through in every role he takes on, captivating audiences with his energy and dedication.
AMBASSADOR Ava Diesch
Ava Diesch is a Senior at Rockwall High School and Vice President of Troupe 7551. Now in her second term as a Student Ambassador, she’s excited to join this year’s board. With over ten years of theatre experience, her favorite roles include Mary Sunshine (Chicago), Lily St. Regis (Annie), and The Wardrobe (Beauty and the Beast). Ava is passionate about advocacy both in and beyond theatre, actively participating in organizations like When We All Vote and the ACLU. She believes in accessible theatre education and is grateful for Texas Thespians’ support. Aspiring to be a civil rights attorney, Ava is dedicated to empowering others to advocate for themselves and looks forward to an incredible year ahead.
AMBASSADOR Manav Tokala
Manav Tokala is a Senior at Independence High School and a member of Troupe 8108. His favorite theatre experience was serving as Assistant Director for She Kills Monsters. Aspiring to become an actor, Manav sees theatre as a vital step toward his goal and values it as a space for self-expression. Beyond theatre, he is active in choir, enjoys movies and basketball, and participates in National Honor Society and Key Club, focusing on community service. Manav is honored to serve as a Student Leader and excited to promote positivity and growth within the Thespian community.
STO George Ledingham
George Ledingham V is a Senior at the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and a proud member of Troupe 6391. A lifelong theatre enthusiast, his favorite roles include Gomez in The Addams Family, Demetrius in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Max in The Play That Goes Wrong. Outside the stage, George is a dedicated scholar and serves as president of his school’s NHS chapter. Committed to discipline and perseverance, he also enjoys fitness and motivating others. George is excited to serve his second term as a Texas Thespian Student Leader.
AMBASSADOR Lili Cates
Lili Cates is a Senior at Bridgeland High School. Her favorite roles include Countess Lily in Anastasia and Veruca in Willy Wonka. Theatre has helped her build lasting relationships and grow her leadership skills in an inclusive community. Outside of theatre, Lili is the founder and president of Stages of Hope, a nonprofit supporting Houston theaters, and serves as Vice President of Bridgeland NHS and an officer in her troupe. Passionate about biological sciences, she plans to continue her studies in college. Lili is honored to serve as a Texas Thespians Ambassador this year.
STO Mackenzie Cheng
Mackenzie Cheng is a senior at Lamar Consolidated High School and the President of Troupe 2806. His theatre experience includes Assistant Stage Manager for Mary Poppins, Mal Beineke, and Media Coordinator for The Addams Family, and Lighting Designer for Cicada. Outside of theatre, Mackenzie is working toward the Eagle Scout award, serves as NHS Historian, and is actively involved in community service. He is excited to continue inspiring Thespians in his second term as a Student Leader.