Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced appointments to the Texas Diabetes Council, which plays a vital role in advising the Texas Legislature on diabetes-related issues in the state. The council's mission is to develop and maintain a robust system of quality education services for individuals with diabetes and healthcare professionals.

The governor has appointed K. Renee’ Yarbrough-Yale, D.N.P., from North Richland Hills, and has reappointed Dirrell Jones, Michael Kelly, Ph.D., and Jason Ryan. Their terms are set to expire on February 1, 2031.

Yarbrough-Yale is the Inpatient Diabetes Program Coordinator at JPS Health Network in Fort Worth. She is actively involved with several professional organizations, including the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists and the American Nurses Association. Her academic background is rooted in Texas Christian University, where she attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and a post-graduate certificate as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Dirrell Jones of Farmers Branch is a senior trial attorney for Redeem Trial Attorneys, participating in the Texas Trial Lawyers Association alongside other legal organizations. In addition to his legal career, he is engaged in community activities at Faith4Life Church. Jones is an alumnus of Baylor University, holding a Bachelor's in Journalism and a Master's in Educational Psychology, with a Juris Doctor from DePaul College of Law.

Michael Kelly, Ph.D., from El Paso, is the vice president of programs at the Paso del Norte Health Foundation. He contributes to numerous entities including the Council on Foundations and the American Diabetes Association. Kelly's educational journey includes degrees from Sam Houston State University and Texas A&M University, encompassing health education and biology.

Jason Ryan of Houston holds the position of executive vice president at CenterPoint Energy. Ryan is involved with several professional boards and committees such as the American Gas Association Legal Committee. His educative path took him through The University of Texas at Austin, where he received both his undergraduate and law degrees.

These appointments await Senate confirmation.