Amy is an applied quantitative and qualitative researcher whose work explores issues affecting low-and-moderate-income individuals and communities. Her primary research focuses on household financial stability, with expertise in wealth gaps and household inflation experiences. Amy is currently pursuing her PhD in Social Policy from Brandeis University.

Anna Crockett is a senior advisor in Community Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Based at the Houston Branch, she conducts research and speaks publicly on a variety of issues primarily relating to education and workforce development. Recent areas of focus include artificial intelligence, disconnected youth and short-term credentials.

Dr. Colton Strawser is a nonprofit and philanthropic consultant and the President of Colton Strawser Consulting—a consulting firm that works with mission-driven organizations to develop the funding, data, and leadership skills necessary to create change. 

Dr. Strawser’s personal and professional mission is empowering organizations to create change?, and he has received numerous awards in recognition of his academic, professional, and personal contributions to the nonprofit sector.

Colton has trained over 1,500 organizations, generated over $25 million in government grants, and supported local and national research efforts to understand social issues and community challenges better.

As a BoardSource trained governance consultant with 20 years of nonprofit management experience, Emily supports organizations of all sizes and budgets to enhance board governance, strengthen operations, and think more strategically to maximize impact. Emily brings additional perspective through her own board service, which currently includes Family Promise of Bell County and Temple Education Foundation.

Evan Wolstencroft is Program Manager at Texas Rural Funders, with over a decade of experience in philanthropy and nonprofit work. Previously, he served as Deputy Director of Development for Educate Texas. Evan holds degrees from Stonehill College and UT Austin and serves on the City of Austin Water and Wastewater Commission.

Haley Chambers serves on the Global Corporate Partnerships team at United Way Worldwide as Manager for the South Central region. She partners with corporations and local United Ways to grow multifaceted partnerships domestically and internationally. Previously, she was a Corporate Account Executive at United Way Metropolitan Dallas. Haley earned her BA from Auburn University.

John is the Executive Vice President of Global Network Advancement and Operations at United Way Worldwide (UWW), integrating decades of nonprofit leadership experience to guide U.S. and International Network teams in implementing strategies, tools, and resources to support local United Ways. In collaboration with the senior leadership team, John’s focus is driving outcomes for Network Resilience, Community Impact Solutions, Strategic Insights and Operations, and international work streams.  

Dr. Kelty Garbee is Executive Director of Texas Rural Funders, with 20 years’ experience in non-profits, state government, and philanthropy. She previously led statewide programs at Educate Texas and the Texas Education Agency. She holds degrees from the University of Virginia and UT Austin.

Kristin Jones joined the team in 2017 to lead fundraising and expand community impact. With 15+ years in nonprofit leadership, she has served organizations including March of Dimes, multiple United Ways, and the American Heart Association. A dedicated community leader, she serves on local boards and was named Good Morning America’s 2023 Mother of the Year.

Michael Street is currently the Vice President of Business Development for Atmos Energy's Mid-Tex Division.  He has responsibility for leading the Residential & Commercial and Industrial Business Development teams in providing safe, reliable and efficient natural gas service to new customers.  He has more than 20 years of experience in the natural gas industry, having held roles in field operations, customer service and public affairs. 

Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart serves as the ninth Chancellor of the Austin Community College District (ACC). His leadership is centered on the principle of love and a deep commitment to systemic and cultural transformation that advances student success for all students. 

Scott Schubert is the CEO of Fortell AI and a former Community Action Agency CEO. With over a decade of leadership in housing, behavioral health, and poverty alleviation, he focuses on applying ethical AI to improve access to social services, streamline program delivery, and strengthen outcomes for nonprofits and public agencies

Stephanie Hoopes, PhD, is the National Director of United For ALICE. She has a doctorate degree from the London School of Economics and is the creator of the ALICE (Asset, Limited, Income, Constrained, Employed) measures which are now viewed as one of the most accurate measures of financial hardship across the country. Her research has garnered the attention of local, state, and national media.

Sydney Fancher is the Director of Partnerships for Information & Referral at Fortell AI, advancing collaborative strategies that strengthen 211s and community organizations. With expertise in call centers, nonprofits, and government partnerships, she champions equity, modernized service models, and meaningful community impact through practical, relationship‑driven leadership.