Together, we can drive meaningful change through advocacy during the 2025 Texas legislative session. In preparation for the session and our advocacy efforts, we invite you to join us for part or all of this special three-part virtual public policy series. Our panels of experts will explore the most pressing policy issues facing North Texans in the areas of education, health and income.  

OCTOBER 16 SESSION: Education, 10-11 a.m. CT 

This session will focus on the math and reading literacy gaps that have persisted since the COVID-19 pandemic and how these inequities impact our students. Together, we will discuss successful local initiatives and what the Texas Legislature, state education agency, and local ISDs can do to close these gaps to ensure the region's youngest Texans have an opportunity for lifelong learning and success. 

• Jeannie Bailey, Manager for Sustainable Development, Toyota North America
• Kate Hoffman, Policy & State Coalition Manager, The Commit Partnership
  
• Dr. John Quintanilla, Dean of College and Science, University of North Texas  
• Abigail Williams, Founder & CEO,  United to Learn  

OCTOBER 23 SESSION: Income, 10-11 a.m. CT

As many North Texas parents face long waitlists and high costs to high-quality childcare, some employers—and several government agencies—have stepped up to support families. This session will focus on investment opportunities and innovations in childcare access, as we consider ways that North Texas can build on public and private sector strategies to solve the childcare crisis and boost our regional economy, benefitting all families. 

• Nicole Allen, Child Care Quality Unit Director, Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County
• Sadie Funk, National Director, Best Place for Working Parents
• Tori Mannes, CEO/President, ChildCareGroup 
• Melanie Rubin, North Texas Early Education Alliance  

OCTOBER 30 SESSION: Health, 10-11 a.m. CT

Food insecurity impacts nearly 5 million residents in Texas—a third of whom are children. This webinar will explore the current state of food insecurity in our region, particularly among vulnerable populations, giving participants insights into the factors contributing to this crisis and the efforts of local organizations to support families. We’ll discuss innovative strategies and what can be done on a policy and systems level to combat food insecurity. 

• Tonya Edwards, Director of SNAP and Social Services Assistance, North Texas Food Bank  
• Tracey Eubanks, CEO, Metrocrest Services
• Ross Sinicropi, Food Resource Manager, Feeding Texas  
• Dr. Jared Williams, VP of Government & External Affairs, Tarrant Area Food Bank