The RISE Award recognizes a person whose early accomplishments, within their career and TASBO, distinguish them as future leaders in the profession.
TASBO has honored 13 exceptional members with its prestigious RISE Award, a recognition that highlights the outstanding contributions made by individuals in their early years with TASBO. Sponsored by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) and First Public, this award program aims to spotlight emerging leaders within the profession.
"This group epitomizes the future of school business in Texas" remarked Elaine Cogburn, the 2024-25 TASBO Board President from Dripping Springs ISD. "Whether they're serving as affiliate officers or volunteering as instructors, we deeply appreciate their willingness to step into leadership roles and embark on this journey."
Now in its 5th year, the awards program is open to TASBO members with seven years of membership or less. Its objective is to recognize individuals who show promise and drive in the school business community. This year's cohort includes:
- Amanda Ray, RTSBA | Chief Financial Officer | Blue Ridge ISD
- Amber Lasseigne, RTSBA | Executive Director of Finance | Lewisville ISD
- Brandy Mayo, RTSBA | Chief Financial Officer | Venus ISD
- Cayla Mars, RTSBA | Director of Finance | Ore City ISD
- Jennifer Hinds, RTSBA | Director of Fiscal Services | Abilene ISD
- Kelechi Bradley | Director of Research Assessment and Data | Sheldon ISD
- Kelsey Ramos, RTSBA | Asst. Superintendent of Finance & Operations | Calallen ISD
- Kenneth Cloud, CTSBO | PEIMS Coordinator | Tomball ISD
- Kimberly Smith, CPA | Chief Finance & Strategy Officer | Frisco ISD
- Kyle Johnson | Assistant Superintendent Finance/Operations | Westwood ISD
- Lance Rainey, RTSBA | Chief Financial Officer | Brock ISD
- Michael Smith, RTSBA | Chief Operations Officer | West Hardin County CISD
- Shannon Allen, CTSBO | Purchasing Supervisor | Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD
Know someone deserving of a RISE Award. Nominations for the 2025 awards are available now. Click here to nominate someone deserving today.
To learn more about each recipient, you can watch the awards ceremony below:
