Denver’s own bestselling author, keynote speaker and internationally recognized communication expert began her career as an engineer, an occupation that allowed her to maintain her natural shyness and avoid situations that required social and personal interactions. Now author of the bestselling books The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills—and Leave a Positive Impression along with Beyond Texting: The Fine Art of Face-to-Face Communication for Teenagers, both published and translated in over 20 countries.  Debra’s motto: “Small talk is the appetizer for a relationship” is the theme of this year’s mask, designed and painted by her husband, Dr. Steven Tilliss.