Jackie Garcia-Morales

Jackie is a proud Puerto Rican and neurodiverse woman raised in New Jersey. She holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from Drexel University, as well as a Digital Marketing Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania. In 2023, she made the leap from medical school to publishing. Following an internship in Children’s Book Sales at Penguin Random House, she was a Publishing Associate (Sales & Promotion) at Baker and Taylor where she focused on marketing and publicity. Now, she is a Writers House intern, the Editor for the Journal of the American Herbalists Guild and a children’s book reviewer at Publishers Weekly. She also serves as the NJ State Ambassador for the United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY), a member of the USBBY Outstanding International Books Committee, and a Story Monsters Ambassador.

She is the founder of the Catalyst Creators Scholarship & Fund, a scholarship that will support authors in high school and college brave enough to write picture book manuscripts featuring underrepresented voices in 2025-2026. In her free time, she mentors BIPOC students at her alma mater. She is a traditionally published middle grade author who focuses on themes like mindfulness, safe spaces, invisible disabilities, and authentic experiences of Boricua identity. Her middle grade novel in 2026 with Arte Público Press. Connect with her on her website and BlueSky @realjackiegm.bsky.social,

Theresa Maria Villarreal

Theresa is a dynamic author, entrepreneur, and educator with a passion for storytelling and a dedication to supporting fellow writers. With a degree in Marketing from the University of Houston, she brings a vibrant creative spirit to business. Theresa has successfully ventured into various domains, from writing middle grade novels to developing unique products. Theresa’s journey into the world of literature began with her acclaimed self-published middle grade series, Adventures in Oculus, a portal fantasy designed to engage readers which promoting self-growth. Her debut book, Dominic’s Closet, which earned praise for its richly developed characters and immersive world-building, she recently released the second installment,Firedrake. She is the creator of the Eaty Man coloring book and in 2025, Theresa released a devotional journal, Roots and Wings, for mothers to help them re-center themselves during parenthood.

Living in the state of Texas, Theresa balances her professional endeavors with a fulfilling personal life. She enjoys gardening, spending time with her family, and contributing to her community. She is an active SCBWI member and homeschooling mother. Through her multifaceted career, Theresa inspires and supports others, fostering a community of creativity and learning. These days, you can find her sharing recipes on Youtube as the Literary Ladle, perfecting her homemade hot sauce (which will soon hit the commercial market), and working on her new picture book manuscript. Visit her website and LinkedIn!