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. 

At the start of Andrea's career, she provided instructional support to educators in Huntsville, Texas. Andrea later transitioned her skills to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in 2002. During that time, Ms. Elmore developed a keen interest in health and human services, leading her to work for the University of Texas Medical Branch and in several assisted living facilities in Houston, Texas, for 13 years. Ms. Elmore's experience exposed her to the necessity of digital inclusion and strategies for impact. Andrea currently focuses on bridging the resource gap for individuals residing in assisted living facilities throughout Harris, Montgomery, and Walker counties. 

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 working with the Texas Board of Criminal Justice/Office of the Inspector General in 2000, where she worked with the Investigations Division Case Management Team, allowing her the opportunity to identify the challenges and obstacles of incarcerated individuals. Amanda was introduced to the healthcare community while working at the University of Texas Medical Branch/TDCJ in 2003. During that time, she directly observed the obstacles of the elderly, disabled, and repeat offenders. Amanda spent 11 years at HCA Healthcare and Harris Health System, providing her direct access to underserved communities. In 2018, Amanda began using her expertise to provide volunteer services to the elderly and vulnerable populations in Walker, Montgomery, Harris, and Galveston counties.