More Than a Name: The Story of Sariea Zann Robertson

Behind every name is a story. Behind every story is a reason to rise.

Greetings!

My name is Sariea—pronounced like area with an S. I was born in the Bronx, New York, but I grew up in the small town of Bethel, Connecticut. I’m the third oldest of ten siblings, and from an early age, I learned the value of community, shared laughter, and making space for everyone around the table. Family is at the heart of who I am.

In 1994, I eloped and moved to Texas, which quickly became home. Just a few years later, I became a foster parent in 1999, motivated by my deep love for children and my desire to create a safe, nurturing space for those in need. Over time, I adopted two beautiful children who are now nearly 26 years old. Though I once had three, one passed away as an infant—an experience so personal and sacred that I carry it privately in my heart.

My passion for helping others has been a defining thread throughout my life. Long before I became a professor, I worked as a tutor with both international ESL students and children with learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and developmental delays. Those one-on-one moments shaped my teaching philosophy and inspired me to pursue my Master's in TESOL, which I completed in 2020.

Since 2022, I’ve had the privilege of teaching ESOL at Lone Star College. As I enter my fourth year, I can honestly say I still approach every class with the same heart, hope, and hunger to help others succeed. I see language not just as a skill, but as a bridge—one that connects dreams to opportunity, and people to each other.

In May, I fulfilled a lifelong dream and traveled through Spain, visiting cities like Madrid, Valencia, Toledo, Malaga, and Nerja. That trip only deepened my love of culture and language. I’ve also been to Venezuela, Mexico, and Canada, and I hope to continue exploring the world, one meaningful experience at a time.

I believe students learn best by doing, by being seen and supported, and by being encouraged to step into their brilliance. My teaching style reflects that. I aim to foster confidence, clarity, and pride in every learner—especially those navigating the challenge of learning English in a new country.

A few fun facts: No one ever guesses my age (and I won’t make it easy for you). I love karaoke and sing everything from Selena’s “Como la Flor” to Juan Gabriel’s “Te lo pido por favor,” and Elton John’s “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” My favorite quote is one my late father often repeated: “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?”

That philosophy stays with me—just like my name. My late father gave me the name Sariea while reading about Sarah and Abraham in the Bible as I was being born. He wanted to name me “Ann” as well, but since one of my sisters already had the middle name Anna, he created “Zann” by placing a Z in front of it. That small twist made all the difference—and it's a perfect reflection of who I am: thoughtful, creative, and always carving out my own path.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I hope my journey speaks to your heart, and if nothing else, reminds you that there is great beauty in every name—and even greater power in the story behind it.

Warmly,

Sariea Zann