TaKasha Laneice Francis was born in Houston, August 4, 1976.  She is the eldest of two children born to James and Sandra Francis in Houston, Texas.  TaKasha is an exceptional oralist and has spoken at church, school, and professional functions all over the city of Houston since childhood.  TaKasha completed her secondary studies at the Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions in 1994.

TaKasha received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication, with a minor in Broadcast Journalism, from Texas Southern University in 1999.  TaKasha  appeared on the Dean’s List from 1997-1999, and was the sole recipient of the Houston Advertising Federation Minority Diversity Scholarship in 1999.  The National Council of Negro Women and Aunt Jemima Brands paid national tribute to TaKasha as a Woman of Wonderthat same year.  

TaKasha not only excelled academically, but as a nationally and internationally ranked debater and orator on the world –renowned Texas Southern University Debate Team.  TaKasha was a stellar member and former president of the team during her college years.  She achieved prominence as a debater landing honors in Madrid, Spain (1995), Athens, Greece (1996), London, England (1997), and Rome, Italy (1999).  TaKasha currently serves as an Assistant Coach alongside esteemed Head Coach, Dr. Thomas F. Freeman. 

Her unique oratorical prowess was prominently showcased when TaKasha captured the title of Miss Texas Southern University in 1998.  She broke barriers and made history as the first plus-sized queen in the university’s history.  TaKasha’s awesome gift for speech landed an internship as a Student News Broadcaster for “The Choice”, KTSU FM in 1997-1999, as well as several leadership positions: TSU Association of Black Journalists, National Council for Negro Women, and Executive member of the Student Government Association.  Throughout her illustrious undergraduate career TaKasha was active within the community.  TaKasha mentored youth in Good Gang U.S.A., a non-profit organization designed to keep youth out of gangs and off the streets.   TaKasha also served as a mentor and coach in the Smooth Talkers program, sponsored by the TSU Debate Team, which teaches middle school students debate and forensics and helps them to become great communicators. 

TaKasha received her Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the esteemed Thurgood Marshall School of Law in May 2003.  TaKasha is a respected attorney practicing family law in Houston.    TaKasha continued her academic excellence by appearing on the Dean’s List and was honored in Who’s Who: American Law Students (2002-2003).   The National Association of Women Lawyers named TaKasha Outstanding Law Student of the Year (2003).   TaKasha excelled as a moot court competition champion garnering regional and national honors.  Additionally, TaKasha has captured numerous honors and awards in Mock Trial and Client Counseling competitions.  TaKasha held membership and offices in several organizations during law school: James M. Douglas Board of Advocates, the National Black Law Students Association, the American Bar Association-Student Division, and Student Bar Association.

TaKasha’s professional affiliations include Houston Black Lawyers Association (Executive Board Member, 2004-2006), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Phi Delta Phi International Legal Honor Fraternity, National Association of Women Lawyers, and the College of the State Bar of Texas, an honorary society of lawyers who are among the best trained attorneys in Texas.  TaKasha is also featured in Who’s Who in Black Houston along with Houston’s African-American achievers and prominent citizens.

TaKasha resides in Houston and worships at St. Stephen Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor  Paul D. Landrew.