Board of Directors

Bennie is a 1975 Sam Houston State University graduate with a BS in Criminology. He began his professional career as a Texas State Parole Officer in 1976. In 1983, The Next Step Inc. employed Bennie as Executive Director and Next Step Board Member. He forged partnerships with many cities and counties in Texas. In 1990, Texas Governor William Clements, Jr appointed Bennie to the Texas Board of Pardon and Paroles. In 1993, he was reappointed by Texas Governor Ann Richards. Bennie served on the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles for three years during the administration of Texas George W. Bush. His leadership in the Texas Criminal Justice System and contribution to health and human services have afforded TNSI tremendous insight into emerging job training needs and access to resources. During his tenure with The Next Step, Inc., Bennie has forged collaborative partnerships with the State of Texas and many counties and cities in the Great State of Texas. 

Your summary is well written but can be made more concise, polished, and consistent in tone. I also removed some repetitive wording and strengthened the connection between Andrea's experience and her current community work.

Andrea began her career providing instructional support to educators in Huntsville, Texas. In 2002, she transitioned to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, where she developed a strong interest in health and human services. She later joined the University of Texas Medical Branch and went on to serve in several assisted living facilities throughout the Houston area for 13 years. During this time, Andrea gained firsthand experience working with older adults and individuals with disabilities, deepening her understanding of the challenges they face in accessing healthcare, technology, and community resources. Through these experiences, Andrea recognized the critical role of digital inclusion in improving quality of life and expanding access to essential services. Today, she is dedicated to bridging the resource gap for residents throughout Harris, Montgomery, and Walker counties by connecting them with technology, information, and community-based resources that promote greater independence and opportunity.
 

Miranda began her career with TNSI in 1983 as a volunteer, managing the organization's financial affairs.  Miranda's accounting knowledge and active community service resulted in her appointment to Board Treasurer in 1983. In 1984, the Board of Directors recognized Miranda's immense contribution to the organization and appointed her as Director of Accounts.  Miranda's many years of experience have allowed The Next Step, Inc. to receive funds and grants from Federal JTPA through the City of Houston, Texas, State of Texas Agencies, and many Texas Counties. During her 40 years of service to Texas counties that include Harris, Walker, Montgomery, Galveston, and others, Miranda has contributed to increasing digital access among the elderly and vulnerable by helping them obtain new electronic devices (e.g., amplified phones and tablets).

Amanda began her career with the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, Office of the Inspector General, in 2000 where she gained firsthand insight into the challenges and barriers faced by incarcerated individuals. In 2003, Amanda joined the University of Texas Medical Branch in partnership TDCJ, where she expanded her experience within the criminal justice system and began her experience within the healthcare system. This role provided her with direct exposure to the unique needs and obstacles faced by individuals in many communities. Amanda later spent 11 years with HCA Healthcare and Harris Health System, where she worked closely with diverse and underserved communities, further strengthening her commitment to improving access to essential services and resources. Since 2018, Amanda has dedicated her expertise to supporting underserved and vulnerable populations throughout the State of Texas. Her professional experience and longstanding commitment to community service have equipped her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underserved populations and a passion for helping individuals access the resources they need to improve their quality of life.