Meet ACT UP‘s dedicated team of professionals and discover why we’re the right choice to help you reach your ACT goals!
Director of Operations
Joshua Coules
Since relocating to Memphis 20 years ago, Joshua Coules has built a career and reputation as an educator and leader among some of the most underserved communities in the region. In his roles as a high school math teacher, athletics coach and faculty leader, Coules invests in the success of others by setting the bar high for both the students and staff he serves. One of his primary tools to help students open doors of opportunity is increasing ACT scores to improve access to post-secondary education.
Instructional Coach
Jennie Willingham
Jennie G. Willingham, M.ED, a dedicated Secondary Honors English Teacher, AP Language and Composition Instructor, and ACT English Specialist, has 16 years of teaching experience as an instructor in the Memphis Shelby County School system. A proud product of the district herself, Willingham’s passion for teaching English has only deepened over the years.
Her commitment to guiding students through the complexities of the ACT has propelled her to achieve a Level-5 teacher status. Witnessing her students’ enthusiasm for mastering the ACT brings her immense joy, and she takes pride in their growth and accomplishments. Willingham believes teaching is a noble profession, essential for shaping futures, and she remains devoted to her students’ success and the advancement of their education.
Instructional Coach
Harold Carswell
Harold Carswell, Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, is an experienced ACT Prep Teacher and Teacher Trainer. He has taught various math disciplines in both public and charter schools across Memphis, TN, and Arkansas.
With expertise in Algebra, Geometry, Statistics, Trigonometry, Precalculus, and AP Calculus, Harold emphasizes the connection between traditional math education and standardized testing patterns in his ACT preparation courses. Despite once struggling with math himself, he discovered that with dedication and practice, mastery is achievable for anyone. Harold challenges the notion that some students are inherently unable to learn math, believing instead in the power of encouragement and guidance to unlock their potential. His teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to realize their capacity for learning and growth.
Instructional Coach
Patricia Ange
Patricia Ange holds a BA and an MA in Business Management. She is an experienced ACT Prep Teacher and Teacher Trainer, with a career spanning fifteen years in both public and charter schools across Memphis, Tennessee. For the past eight years, her instructional focus has been dedicated to the English, Reading, and Science subsections of ACT Prep.
Initially starting her teaching journey as an English teacher, Ange transitioned to teaching ACT Prep driven by her sincere belief in providing greater opportunities for higher education. She is motivated by the chance to open doors to more lifetime opportunities, particularly for students in Memphis who often face barriers to accessing them. This commitment drives her passion and dedication to her work.