About the Foundation
Embedded Files
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
The Foundation for Education’s mission is to provide private funding and community resources in support of preparing all Fort Worth ISD students for success in college, career, and community leadership.
Who We Are
Who We Are
The Foundation is an independent
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by local community and business leaders who share a deep commitment to student success. Our structure allows us to act nimbly and strategically—channeling private resources directly where they will make the greatest difference.
Our Partnership with FWISD
Our Partnership with FWISD
Working hand in hand with district leadership, the Foundation aligns with Fort Worth ISD’s 2029 Strategic Goals, ensuring our investments complement and enhance the district’s priorities while maintaining operational independence.
FWISD Foundation for Education Board of Directors
Molly Hyry
Molly Hyry
Board Chair
As President of the Fort Worth ISD Foundation for Education, Molly brings a lifelong commitment to education, service, and community. A former Fort Worth ISD teacher and parent, she has held numerous leadership roles within PTA at both the council and school levels. As a Fort Worth ISD Council of PTA’s board member she served as multiple officer roles and continues to lend her support whenever needed.
Molly has more than 20 years of service as a PTA volunteer and is a recipient of Paschal High School’s PTA Honorary Life Membership Award. Today she continues her volunteerism as the President of the Paschal Enrichment Foundation, Fort Worth ISD’s District Advisory Committee, and serves on the board of Fort Worth SPARC.
With a strong record of volunteerism and advocacy, Molly is dedicated to supporting all students and championing the importance of education. Molly enjoys traveling, cooking, and reading. She and her husband Michael are the proud parents of three Fort Worth ISD graduates.
Benjamin Robertson
Benjamin Robertson
Vice Chair
Benjamin is a 5th Generation resident of Fort Worth and has resided on the Eastside of our City for the past two decades.
He is the founder of TEI Consulting, a full-service business and technology consulting firm specializing in helping businesses succeed by coming alongside their journey and looking for opportunities of improvement or confirmation of excellence!
Benjamin has a passion for community empowerment and growth, and serves on multiple boards, committees, and commissions, including Trinity Metro, Texas Health Community Impact Foundation, CDFW Transit Initiative, Rising Tide Initiative, Samaritan House, Steer FW Legacy, Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.
Additionally, he is a 2017 graduate of Leadership Fort Worth, a 2016 honoree of the Fort Worth Business Press 40 Under 40 Award, and an inaugural recipient of the 360West Men on Mission in 2026!
Ty
Ty
Stimpson
Stimpson
Treasurer
A native Texan, Ty grew up in Arlington and graduated from Baylor University, where he played linebacker. He earned his Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University and his Master of Laws from St. John’s University School of Law while working with the National Football League.
Ty began his legal career as a prosecutor in Dallas and Tarrant Counties, handling hundreds of cases ranging from capital murder to identity theft. He later transitioned to private practice, where he is recognized as a leading personal injury attorney known for his strong trial advocacy and negotiation skills.
He has been honored as a Top Attorney by Fort Worth Magazine, 360 West, and Southlake Style, named to the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, and recognized among Fort Worth Inc.’s 40 Under 40. He was also named Young Professional of the Year by the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and received the Strong Man Honoree award from Girls Inc. of Tarrant County.
He remains deeply engaged in the community, supporting initiatives that strengthen families and expand opportunity across North Texas.
Dr. Louis Kushner
Dr. Louis Kushner
Ex-Officio/Secretary
Dr. Louis Kushner serves as Chief of Staff for Fort Worth ISD, where he supports district leadership in advancing strategic priorities and improving outcomes for students, staff, and families. With more than two decades of experience in public education, Dr. Kushner has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and district administrator, building a reputation for strong leadership, school improvement, and organizational excellence. He holds a Doctorate in Education and Organizational Leadership and is passionate about developing future leaders and strengthening community partnerships. Dr. Kushner brings valuable expertise in educational leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement to the Foundation Board.
Devante Davis
Devante Davis
Board Member
Devante Davis serves as the Manager of Public Affairs for Atmos Energy Corporation in the Fort Worth, Texas area. Operating out of the Mid-Tex Division, his role focuses on community engagement, civic leadership, and corporate responsibility. Devante is active in the Fort Worth civic and business community, participating in leadership cohorts such as Leadership Fort Worth's LeadingEdge program.
Rich Roby
Rich Roby
Board Member
Richard "Rich" Roby III is a prominent business owner and civic figure based in the Fort Worth, Texas area. He is most notably recognized as the owner of Food Haven USA, a brand and media entity centered around his passions for food, travel, and local commerce.
Lonnie Nicholson
Lonnie Nicholson
Board Member
Lonnie Nicholson is the Chief Executive Officer of EECU, where he leads the organization’s strategic direction, member experience, and long-term growth across North Texas. In his role, he is responsible for guiding the credit union’s mission-driven approach to banking, ensuring strong financial stewardship while expanding access to affordable financial services for members and communities.
With extensive experience in financial services leadership, Nicholson is focused on strengthening operational excellence, advancing digital transformation, and fostering a culture centered on service, trust, and community impact. Under his leadership, EECU continues to prioritize member value through competitive financial products, enhanced technology, and community investment initiatives.
Nicholson is also engaged in community partnerships and regional economic development efforts, supporting programs that promote financial literacy, education, and local growth across the Fort Worth area and beyond.
Jay Chapa
Jay Chapa
Ex-Officio
Jay Chapa is City Manager of the City of Fort Worth, bringing more than 30 years of experience in local government and the private sector. He has spent over 25 years with the City in senior leadership roles, overseeing areas including economic development, public safety, transportation, finance, and tourism. Jay has played a key role in major initiatives such as the growth of the Alliance area, revitalization of the Fort Worth Stockyards, and citywide public safety efforts. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Texas. Jay is married to Evalis and has one daughter, Emilia.
Gyna Bivens
Gyna Bivens
Treasurer Emeritus
1954-2026
Gyna M. Bivens served Fort Worth from 2013–2025 as the longest-serving member of the City Council and as Mayor Pro Tem. During her tenure, she led major revitalization efforts, including rezonings in the Stop Six and John T. White communities that spurred housing development, secured a $35 million HUD grant, and reflected her ability to build consensus and deliver results. She concluded six terms confident District 5 was stronger than when she began.
Ms. Bivens served as President & Executive Director of North Texas LEAD, where she connected diverse, college-educated talent with corporate and public-sector leaders across the region. Her career also included leadership roles in media and communications, including serving as the first African American spokesperson for TXU and as a reporter and bureau chief for major television and radio outlets.
A respected civic leader, she chaired the NCTCOG Regional Transportation Council, served on the National League of Cities Board of Directors, and was active in numerous community organizations.
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