Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has made new appointments to the Rehabilitation Council of Texas. Shannon Rosson and Erica Kress have been appointed, while Christopher Baird, Glenda Born, and Michele Norris have been reappointed. These appointments are set for terms expiring on October 29, 2027. The Council collaborates with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to support individuals with disabilities in their vocational rehabilitation journey.

Shannon Rosson from Bedford serves as the PACT Project director for Partners Resource Network. She participates in various community resource coordination groups across multiple counties and is involved in several local organizations. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from The University of Texas at Austin.

Erica Kress resides in Aubrey and holds the position of second vice president for the National Federation of the Blind of Texas Dallas Chapter. She actively advocates through different foundations and volunteers for Texas Blind Soccer. Kress earned her Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from UT Arlington.

Christopher Baird from San Angelo works as a vocation rehabilitation supervisor at TWC. His career history includes roles such as vocational rehabilitation counselor and community supervision officer. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Texas Tech University (TTU) and a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from TTU Health Sciences Center.

Glenda Born is based in Austin and is retired after serving as an assistive technology specialist at TWC. Her extensive career spanned roles including rehabilitation teacher and team coordinator, among others. She holds both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Education from Stephen F. Austin State University along with a professional counselor's license.

Michele Norris lives in La Porte and functions as a regional blind services specialist at TWC, having previously worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor. She completed her undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science at Saint Vincent College and furthered her education with a Master’s degree in Clinical Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from TTU.