TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BLACK PERSONNEL IN HIGHER EDUCATION

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2026 Board of Director Nominations

2026 Board of Director Nominations

The Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education 52nd Annual State Conference marks election year for the At-Large seats of the TABPHE Executive Office.

TABPHE is looking for dedicated individuals to serve, lead and enhance our mission. Executive Officers are the leadership for the organization, are responsible for managing the affairs of the state association and are empowered to make routine decisions. Nominees must be a paid state member and willing to serve. Please see "Duties and Responsibilities” below before nominating.

DUTIES:

responsible for managing the affairs of the Association and is empowered to make routine decisions for the Association
Serve as a core individual for committee and taskforce assignments
serve as at-large generalists who represent the membership and provide a broader perspective on the day-today management of the Association and Board activities
convene to conduct four (4) face-to-face meetings per year
participate in monthly conference calls

REQUIREMENTS:

must be willing to serve a 2 year term (2025-2027)
must be an active paid state member for at least 2 years
a member cannot be nominated for, nor serve, more than two consecutive terms in a given position

For a list of complete duties, please view the state constitution.

SLATE OF NOMINEES

Board of Director Nominee: Kelli Emerson

It has been an honor to serve on the TABPHE Board of Directors this year, and I am excited to continue bringing my extensive experience in higher education to support the organization’s mission and strategic initiatives. Drawing upon a professional journey that spans multiple facets of academic practice and student support, I have cultivated a broad and informed perspective through my work with diverse and historically underserved student populations. My unwavering belief that education is a fundamental right—not a privilege—guides my commitment to advancing equitable access, fostering inclusive learning environments, and ensuring that all students are afforded the opportunity to succeed regardless of background or circumstance.

With a strong academic foundation and the completion of my doctoral studies on the horizon, my dedication to student success and institutional advancement continues to deepen. My professional experiences across both two-year and four-year institutions have provided valuable insight into the unique challenges, barriers, and opportunities present within each setting. These experiences have not only strengthened my understanding of student persistence and retention but have also fueled my passion for enhancing the overall collegiate experience. I remain committed to developing supportive, culturally responsive environments that promote student engagement, academic achievement, and holistic well-being, while contributing meaningfully to the continued growth and impact of TABPHE.

Board of Director Nominee: Shellye Lyons

As a TABPHE Life Member, I bring a commitment to visionary leadership, mentorship, and sustainable growth in higher education. I offer a systems-level perspective grounded in service and collaboration. I am passionate about leadership development, access to opportunity, and building pathways that help professionals thrive and advance. As a Board member, I will work to strengthen TABPHE’s legacy, elevate member voices, and ensure the organization remains impactful, inclusive in practice, and future-focused.

Board of Director Nominee: Sandra McCrary-Marshall

As a Board member of TABPHE, I will bring strategic leadership, a deep commitment to educational equity, and a collaborative approach to advancing our mission. I am dedicated to strengthening pathways for Black students in higher education, fostering meaningful partnerships, and supporting policies and initiatives that drive measurable impact. With a focus on accountability, innovation, and community engagement, I will work to ensure TABPHE continues to serve as a powerful advocate and resource for educational excellence and opportunity.

Board of Director Nominee: Dr. Mosadi Porter

I will bring visionary leadership grounded in purpose, integrity, and collective care. With decades of experience in higher education, I am committed to advancing spaces where Black professionals are seen, supported, and prepared to lead boldly. I seek to help TABPHE strengthen its legacy as a transformative force—one that cultivates leadership, nurtures excellence, amplifies our voices, and builds pathways for future generations to thrive across Texas and beyond.

Board of Director Nominee: Vacant

Nomination/Election Details

A slate of eligible members will be presented to the membership at the 53rd Annual TABPHE State Conference Business Meeting held on March 6, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Nominations may also be made from the floor in the Business Meeting.

Voting will occur immediately after the business meeting and is open only to active paid members. It will be held virtually, therefore you do not need to be present at the conference to vote. The winners will be announced at the conference Gala and officially installed at the closing ceremony that will take place Saturday, March 7.