TASBO members elected one officer and three directors to the 2025-26 board of directors, who were introduced at the 2025 TASBO Engage Conference in Austin
TASBO introduced the new board of directors at the 2025 TASBO Engage Conference in Austin. An online election for one officer position and three director positions was held in the weeks prior to the conference.
Chief Financial Officer Heather Wilson, RTSBA from College Station ISD (pictured left) began her term as board president at the conclusion of the conference. She succeeds Dripping Spring ISD's Elaine Cogburn as board president.
"I am incredibly passionate about the work we do – because it’s not just about numbers and budgets," said Heather during her opening speech. "It’s about shaping the future."
Meet newly elected/re-elected officers and directors:
Byron Bryant, RTSBA, CPA, Chief Financial Officer from Royse City ISD was elected as Vice President. Phillip will ascend to President in two years and will serve as officer for a total of four years. Byron has served as the Chief Financial Officer for Royse City ISD since 2018. Previously he served as the Executive Director of Finance for Allen ISD and worked in accounting at Rockwall ISD and Red Oak ISD. Byron graduated with his bachelors and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Three directors were elected to a three-year term:
> Daniel West, CPA, CTSBO, Chief Financial Officer | Amarillo ISD
Daniel has served as the CFO of Amarillo ISD since 2021, following his tenure in the same role at Dumas ISD. With a background as an Auditor, he is actively involved in the Panhandle ASBO affiliate, previously serving as Vice-President and currently as President. Daniel received the TASBO RISE Award in 2023 and has contributed as an instructor and judge in various TASBO initiatives, underlining his commitment to financial management in education.
> Derek Gillard, RTSBA. Executive Director of Business Services | Pasadena ISD
Derek is the Executive Director of Business Services for Pasadena ISD, with a career spanning over 17 years in various administrative roles. He has previously served a term on the TASBO Board and held leadership positions in several committees, including the Purchasing Research Committee. Derek shares his knowledge as an instructor and facilitator for TASBO certification courses. Under his leadership, his districts have earned the Award of Merit and Award of Excellence.
> Lori Vechione, RTSBA, Director of Purchasing | Keller ISD (Re-elected to a 2nd term)
Lori has served as the Director of Purchasing in the Keller ISD since 2007. An active TASBO instructor, mentor, and volunteer, she has earned the organization’s Award of Merit for Purchasing Operations every year since 2010. She is President of the TASBO affiliate of NTPSM and Chair of the TASBO Purchasing Research Committee.
