June 3, 2024 –The Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (TABSE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. LaBotta Taylor as the organization’s new executive director. In this role, Dr. Taylor will collaborate with the TABSE President to coordinate board and organization activities, ensure all financial obligations are met in a timely manner, and guarantee that the TABSE remains in full compliance with nonprofit status. Additionally, among other duties, communicating with external partners and stakeholders to continue fostering strong relationships for collaboration and growth for TABSE will be a priority as well.
In April 2024, TABSE began its search for a new executive director after Phyllis Williams, who held the job for 12 years, was appointed as the executive director of the National Alliance of Black School Educators. After calling for applications, five candidates completed an in-basket activity. Four were interviewed, and two became finalists. Dr. Taylor stood out as an ideal choice due to her strong leadership in TABSE, having served as an affiliate president, state conference secretary, and on several TABSE committees over the years.
“Dr. Taylor's exceptional knowledge, extensive experience, and outstanding leadership make her the ideal candidate for the role of executive director,” said TABSE President, Dr. Chris Pichon. “I am confident that our organization will continue to flourish under her guidance, thanks to her profound understanding of our mission and her dedicated involvement as a valued and active TABSE member.”
Taylor has been a member of TABSE for ten years, and most recently served as the Southwest Alliance of Black School Educators Affiliate president in Dallas, TX. She served as the 2024 state conference secretary, and during the 2023 TABSE state conference, she was recognized with the Above & Beyond Award for her outstanding leadership as assistant state conference secretary. She currently serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer in Lancaster ISD and will begin her role as executive director on Monday, June 10.
"I am excited and truly humbled to be the next executive director for an organization I have enjoyed serving for many years," Taylor said. "I want to thank the hiring committee for their thorough process, attention to detail, and intentional approach during the interview process. It was clear that TABSE’s leadership wanted to find the right person for the job, and I am grateful for the selection and opportunity to serve. I am eager to start working on behalf of an organization I value and love."
Taylor and Williams will work together to ensure a smooth transition of duties for the role.For additional information about the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators, please visit www.tabse.net.
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Executive Director Thank You Message
Dear TABSE Members,
I am deeply honored and blessed to accept the role of Executive Director for the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (TABSE). I want to express my sincere gratitude for the warm welcome from my TABSE family.
As we reflect on our journey and the work ahead, it is fitting to acknowledge the significance of Juneteenth, especially given its origins in Galveston, Texas. On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Major General Gordon Granger announced the end of slavery, marking a pivotal moment in our history. Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of our ancestors, and it underscores the importance of our ongoing commitment to justice and equality in education.
I am excited that we will be “Celebrating 40 years of Black Excellence: Our Students, Our Future” in Galveston for our next conference, February 12-16, 2025. This milestone is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our members over the past four decades. I look forward to seeing you all there as we come together to honor our past, celebrate our achievements, and forge a path toward a brighter future.
Together, we will build on the strong mission of our thirteen founders, advocate for legislative reforms, and implement innovative strategies to achieve our shared goals. I look forward to collaborating with affiliates, communicating with external partners, and supporting the president’s vision to S.O.A.R. (Sustaining Opportunities and Access for Results). I am committed to working diligently to support our educators, students, and stakeholders, ensuring that we continue to make strides in promoting educational excellence and equity.
Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity. I am excited to embark on this journey with you and to contribute to the continued success of TABSE.
Kind regards,
Dr. LaBotta Taylor
Executive Director