FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Galveston, TX – The Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (TABSE) proudly hosted its 40th Annual State Conference in Galveston, Texas, bringing together close to 500 educators from across the state. The milestone event, held in February, celebrated four decades of Black excellence in education and provided a platform for professional development, networking, and the advancement of educational equity.
The conference marked a significant leadership transition as Dr. Christopher Pichon concluded his term as TABSE’s 14th President. Stepping into the role is Dr. Darwin Spiller, who delivered a powerful and inspiring speech during the event’s Inauguration Dinner. His message resonated with attendees, igniting enthusiasm and reaffirming the organization’s mission to uplift all educators and students across Texas.
During his speech, Dr. Spiller shared his vision for the organization, stating, “As I step into this role as your 15th President, I do so with a firm belief in the power of our collective strength, the richness of our shared history, and the unstoppable force that is us, united as one. My theme for this presidency is simple, yet powerful: We Are One – Moving Forward!”
He also issued a call to action to TABSE members, emphasizing the importance of active participation.
“Your Role in TABSE Matters. For far too long, the weight of advocacy, the burden of change, and the responsibility of leadership have fallen on too few shoulders. But if we are truly one body, then we must recognize that your role in TABSE matters!”
Dr. Spiller further challenged members emphasizing that as a united force dedicated to educating all students, TABSE can lead the majority when they move with unity and strategy.
“The challenge is not a lack of power, but rather the need to organize and harness that power effectively,’ Spiller shared. “That means something very important. We got to do something different! If you are not in the work, you are in the way.”
As part of his vision for TABSE’s future, Dr. Spiller has a newly elected board and has appointed key leaders who will support his presidency and help drive the organization’s ongoing initiatives. These appointments reflect TABSE’s commitment to sustaining its impact on education and ensuring continued growth and advocacy for educators and students.
2025 TABSE Executive Committee
Dr. Darwin Spiller, President
Dr. Christopher Pichon, Immediate Past President
Dr. Dawn DuBose, President-Elect
Dr. Corina Bullock, Treasurer
Brian Roberson, Parliamentarian
Yumesha Mosley, Correspondence Secretary
Dr. Demeka Simmons, Recording Secretary
Sheree Bogany, Historian
Dianne Shaw, Financial Secretary
Dr. Regina Sims, Chaplain
2025 TABSE Presidential Appointed Board Members
Kimberly Simpson, External Communications Chair
Twyla Hynes, Strategic Engagement Chair
Sajade Miller, Leadership and Strategy Chair
Yolanda Willis, Strategic Initiatives Chair
Dr. Julia Andrews, Chair of the Council of Affiliate Presidents
Mae Olison, Texas Policy Institute Chair
Dr. Brenda Dearmon, HAABSE Board Representative
Angenet Wilkerson, Coalition of Allies Design Team Representative
Dr. Michelle Fennick, Coalition of Allies Design Team Representative
Dr. LaBotta Taylor, Executive Director
“This conference was not only a celebration of our past but also a launching point for our future,” said Dr. Spiller. “With the support of our dedicated members and newly appointed leadership, we are one, moving forward and building upon our legacy and furthering our mission of educational excellence.”
The 2025 conference was widely recognized as a resounding success, featuring dynamic keynote speakers, impactful workshops, and collaborative discussions aimed at enhancing educational opportunities. Educators left the event inspired and equipped with innovative strategies to implement in their districts and classrooms.Looking ahead, TABSE is excited to announce that the 41st Annual State Conference will take place on February 18-22, 2026 in Las Colinas, Texas. More details will be shared as the event approaches on the TABSE website. For more information about TABSE and its initiatives, visit www.tabse.net.
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