Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed and reappointed six individuals to the OneStar National Service Commission, as announced on March 18, 2024. The commission plays a crucial role in promoting volunteerism in Texas and overseeing the administration of AmeriCorps programs within the state.

Jie Li, a partner at Reflexion Capitol, has been appointed to the commission. Li's impressive background includes being a member of various associations such as the Harvard Business School Alumni Angels Association and the Cornell Free Speech Alliance. She holds a bachelor's degree from Cornell University and a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School.

James Senegal, the co-founder and lead instructor for ProResponder Training, LLC, has been reappointed to the commission. Senegal's affiliations include memberships in organizations like the Texas Police Chiefs Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Baylor University.

Marcos Delgado, the executive vice president for the Borderplex Alliance, has also been reappointed. Delgado's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from The University of Texas at El Paso and a Master of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame.

Verlene Dickson, the director of the Veteran Resource Center, has been reappointed to the commission as well. Dickson's military background includes serving in the United States Army until her retirement in 2013. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and a master's degree in religion from Liberty University.

Ronnie Hagerty, Ph.D., assistant vice president of community relations and talent management for United Way of Greater Houston, has been reappointed to the commission. Hagerty's extensive experience includes serving as an adjunct professor at Rice University and the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a Master of Business Administration, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership and Change.

Dan Leal, the executive director of Seedling Mentor Program, has been reappointed to the commission. Leal's background includes 20 years of experience as a nonprofit executive director in youth-serving agencies. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of North Texas.

These appointments and reappointments by Governor Abbott further strengthen the leadership and expertise within the OneStar National Service Commission, ensuring the continued promotion of volunteerism and community service in Texas.