On a recent announcement made by Governor Greg Abbott, Texans are set to see new and returning faces on the board of Humanities Texas, as appointments were made that bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the organization. Kerry Reyna, alongside the reappointed Amanda Nobles and April Graham, are tasked with fortifying the foundation of democracy in Texas through the promotion of humanities education, cited a press release from the Governor's office. Humanities Texas, affiliated with the National Endowment for the Humanities, focuses on history, literature, philosophy, and other disciplines, vital for the community's intellectual growth.
April Graham, a retired high school teacher from Bryan, joins this illustrious board with her own legacy of education and community service, her résumé boasts a psychology degree from Texas Tech University and a secondary education degree from the University of Houston, she remains deeply connected to her roots in teaching and spiritual guidance as a former Christian education teacher at St. Cecilia Catholic Church and as an advocate for parental involvement in the Spring Branch Parent Teacher Association, according to the aforementioned press release. Amanda Nobles, hailing from Longview, brings to the table 30 years of prowess in economic development through her longstanding tenure at Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and her commitment to historical and cultural endeavors is equally evident in her volunteer work with the Texas Shakespeare Festival Foundation and REEL East Texas Festival.
The third appointee, Lt. Col. Kerry Reyna of San Antonio, who served 27 years in the United States Army before retiring, has an educational background spanning from Sam Houston State University to the University of the Incarnate Word. Her distinct blend of military discipline and academic insight, exemplified in her earned Master of Arts in Administration, will contribute a unique perspective to the Humanities Texas mission. These appointments, set to extend until December 31, 2026, signify Governor Abbott's commitment to enhancing the depth of knowledge in Texas communities with individuals who not only advocate for the humanities—but live them, as reported by the Texas Governor's official news release.
Humanities Texas stands as one of the 56 councils across the nation that compose a vital network, impassioned with the charge of ensuring the humanities flourish across neighborhoods, towns, and cities, each appointee brings to the forefront a singular vision shaped by diverse careers and life experiences ranging from military service to educational leadership and economic strategy. With these appointments, Abbott's administration reinforces the state's dedication to nurturing the humanistic disciplines that are indispensable for informed citizenship and enlightened governance.
