Mary Lynn works as the Director of Education and Workforce Policy for Texas 2036. She is an expert in the most complex public education topics, including assessment, accountability and school finance. In 2023, Mary Lynn led Texas 2036’s efforts on assessment and accountability, working to ensure that the state maintains a commitment to rigorous, valid and transparent systems for all public schools.

In addition to her work on public education policy, in the coming year, Mary Lynn will lead our Lone Star Fellows Program, helping to train and coach the next generation of education and workforce policy fellows.

Mary Lynn is an 8th generation Texan, her family having lived in the state for almost 200 years.

Caroline Fairly is a lifelong Amarillo native whose upbringing instilled in her a strong commitment to faith, service, and community. She earned a degree in Business Marketing from Abilene Christian University.

In her first term in the Texas House, Caroline has worked on key issues including healthcare policy, digital safety, water resources, and education initiatives. She serves on several committees, including Appropriations and Natural Resources, and remains actively involved in her community through volunteer work and her church.

State Representative Hillary Hickland is a ninth-generation Texan, devoted wife, and mother of four who is driven by her faith and commitment to serving her community. Her love of Texas and dedication to our future generations led her to advocate for her children and families across the state during the 88th Legislative Session.

She serves as State Representative for House District 55, prioritizing issues that impact all Texans. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Baylor University and a Master's degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University. 

An active leader in her community, Representative Hickland has served as a Crisis Pregnancy Center mentor for over a decade, was PTA vice president, and is currently an active member of the Central Texas Republican Women. Representative Hickland's district covers central Bell County and includes the cities of Temple, Belton, Harker Heights, Nolanville, and Killeen.

Today, I'm joined by State Senator Charles Perry, a lifelong West Texan who has dedicated decades to public service and community leadership. Senator Perry represents the district where he grew up, bringing firsthand knowledge of rural Texas to his work in the Legislature.

Since his election to the Texas Senate in 2014, Senator Perry has taken on critical leadership roles that directly impact Texas families and communities. He chairs the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs, and serves as Vice-Chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. 

Senator Perry served two terms in the Texas House of Representatives and has been deeply involved in community organizations, including serving as past president of the Lubbock Boys and Girls Club. A practicing CPA and Texas Tech graduate, he understands both the fiscal realities facing our state and the importance of preparing young Texans for meaningful careers.