As director of marketing and communications for Educate Texas, Nakoya is responsible for developing and implementing strategic marketing and communications plans. Her mission is to maintain the integrity of Educate Texas’ story and ensure that all messaging is consistent in reinforcing the organization’s mission, vision and values. She manages an array of initiatives and programs, including advertising, public relations, branding, social media, and events and sponsorships.

Nakoya has spent a decade in marketing and communications across a broad range of industries including news media, health care, nonprofits, and K-12 and higher education administration. Prior to joining CFT, she was the marketing and communications manager for the city of Dallas, leading and implementing a campaign to inform residents and businesses about COVID-19 regulations, resources and preventative information in historically marginalized communities.

She holds bachelor’s degrees in international studies and international business from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a master’s in emerging media and communications from the University of Texas at Dallas. During her undergrad years, she also studied abroad in Spain.

Community Leadership / Board Service

Nakoya is a member of the DFW chapter of the American Marketing Association, Leadership Women and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She served on the board for the Urban League of Greater Dallas Young Professionals from 2008-13.

Joined CFT

2021

Favorite Aspect of CFT

"I get to collaborate with such a dynamic and knowledgeable group of colleagues while fulfilling my personal mission of making a difference in education."

Favorite Quote

Always leave things better than you found them, especially people.