Tyra Lechner is a current Creative Writing Fiction MFA Candidate at Colorado State University. Her writing focuses on exploring intergenerational dynamics, Filipino-American experiences, and women with Tourette’s Syndrome. Before starting at CSU, Tyra worked as an English teacher in North Carolina and New Mexico. She received her teacher education through the LEAP program in New Mexico with a focus on culturally and linguistically responsive pedagogy. Tyra has published nonfiction work about living with Tourette’s Syndrome and has delivered professional development for educators on best practices for serving students with Tourette’s Syndrome. Outside of teaching and writing, she is a fiber arts enthusiast, rock climber, and casual gamer.