Governor Greg Abbott appointed Leslie Cantu, Marla Williams, Elizabeth “Elle” Holtzman, and Jeanie Beaman and reappointed Peggy Schmidt to the Rehabilitation Council of Texas for terms ending October 29, 2028, according to a Mar. 25 announcement. The council works with the Texas Workforce Commission to support people with disabilities in vocational rehabilitation.
The appointments are part of ongoing efforts by state leadership to improve services and advocacy for Texans with disabilities. The council’s partnership with the workforce commission aims to enhance employment opportunities and resources for individuals seeking vocational assistance.
Cantu is vice president at Toyotetsu Texas, Inc., chairs Workforce Solutions Alamo’s board, and participates in several education advisory groups. Williams founded Strategic Employment Solutions LLC and has experience as an employment specialist under contract with the state as well as years in special education roles within public schools. Holtzman is involved with Southeast Texas Self-Advocates through The Arc of Greater Beaumont while working at Stormie’s SnoCones and T-Shirts. Beaman serves as senior staff advocate for Disability Rights Texas and brings more than three decades of experience as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Schmidt is associate director at University of North Texas’ Workplace Inclusion program and volunteers within her community.
The Office of Governor Greg Abbott has contributed to statewide job growth and record employment levels according to the official website. The office maintains its main operations in Austin at the State Insurance Building according to the official website.
Abbott was named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to the official website. Since his election in 2014, he has led initiatives focused on job creation, economic opportunity, education improvement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and border security according to the official website. His office delivers services across all regions of Texas according to the official website.
