State Agency Council

The State Agency Council was established in 1983 by Texas Governor Mark White to support the goals of the Governor's Commission for Women. The Council also provides its state agency representatives with the opportunity for professional development, community service and a forum to discuss women's issues.

Members of the State Agency Council are appointed by the director of each state agency at the Governor's request. Each agency can appoint one member and one alternate to serve a two-year term; currently, the Council consists of 126 members and alternates.

The Governor's Commission for Women appoints an Executive Board from the Council's membership.

State Agency Council Executive Board

• Gabriela Klein, Texas Public Finance Authority, Chair
  
• Shelley Harris–Curtsinger, Texas Commission on Fire Protection, Vice Chair
  
• Avis M. O'Reilly, Texas Workforce Commission, Membership Director
  
• Raette Smith Hearne, Director of Administration at the Comptroller’s Office.
  
• Carolyn Mezger, Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, Division for Blind Services, Secretary
  
• Wyonda Dean Garrett, Texas Veterans Commisson, Special Events Chair
  

In addition to participating in Commission projects and programs, the State Agency Council also presents the Outstanding Women in Texas Government Awards, to honor women who have made significant contributions to the State of Texas through their work in state government.