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Denise is a TEDx speaker, international best-selling author, and coach to parents of college-bound teens. Using her proprietary repeatable strategy her 2 teens attended their first-choice college on 17 scholarships exceeding $199,000, walking out of college with cash in hand. They got paid to go to college!! Denise says, “Send your kids to college on other people’s cash.” and “College doesn’t have to be a debt sentence.”

Denise Thomas, a highly esteemed keynote speaker, TEDx speaker, international best-selling author, and expert in college preparation brings a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to parent-teacher associations seeking a powerful voice for their events. With a remarkable journey that embodies resilience and determination, Denise's story resonates deeply with parents of middle school and high school children, empowering them to overcome financial obstacles and guide their children toward a debt-free college education.

Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Denise's personal experiences shaped her unwavering commitment to helping parents and their children navigate the complexities of higher education. While pursuing her own college education on a Pell Grant, Denise faced immense challenges, working multiple jobs and getting extra food from the cafeteria so she could make it through the weekends. Denise was determined to spare her own children from similar hardships.

However, when a devastating bankruptcy and liquidation threatened their dreams of attending college, Denise embarked on an exhaustive research journey that led to the development of her revolutionary "Cracking the Code to Free College" strategy. This proprietary method enabled her children to gain acceptance into their first-choice college and amass an astounding 17 scholarships exceeding $199,000. They emerged from college with cash in hand, truly getting paid to go to college.

Denise's dedication to supporting the U.S. military stems from her childhood experiences witnessing her father attain his degree from Tulane University through the G.I. Bill. In her company, Get Ahead of the Class, LLC, Denise extends special opportunities to military veterans and active-duty families. Moreover, she actively supports Spike's K-9 Fund, a nonprofit organization that provides protective gear for working dogs in uniform.

As a TEDx speaker, conference keynote speaker, international best-selling author, and coach to parents of college-bound teens, Denise's expertise and passion shine through. She inspires, educates, and equips parents to actively empower their children to live lives of financial freedom. Through her acclaimed "Cracking the Code to Free College" strategy, Denise aims to revolutionize the alarming student debt statistics in the U.S.

Denise's influence extends beyond the stage as she hosts the popular podcast "Debt Free Degree," which ranks in four countries, and serves as the host of the "Debt Free Degree TV" YouTube channel. Additionally, she leads the College Prep for Success online summit, a transformative event for parents of middle school, high school, and college-aged children.

Denise's powerful message is captured in her empowering statements: "You can keep your money. Send your kids to college on other people's cash!" and "College doesn't have to be a debt sentence." Her unwavering dedication to empowering parents and transforming the college experience sets her apart as an exceptional keynote speaker for organizations and associations seeking to elevate their events and equip parents with the tools and knowledge needed to secure a debt-free future for their children.

Denise currently resides in Florida with her husband.