AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced yesterday the appointment of 15 people to the Governor’s Commission for Women.
Among them is a Harlingen resident, Tina Yturria Buford.
Buford joins Estela Avery, Jennifer Chiang, Starr Corbin, Alejandra De la Vega-Foster, Debbie Gustafson, Karen Harris, Amy Henderson, Nancy Ann Hunt, Karen Manning, Imelda Navarro, Rienke Radler, Jinous Rouhani, Catherine Susser, and Laura Koenig Young on the Governor’s Commission for Women. The terms are set to expire on Dec. 31, 2017.
Buford is the education project manager for the East Foundation developing natural resource education programs for South Texas youth.
Previously, she worked alongside her family at the H. Yturria Land and Cattle Company. Buford serves as the vice president of Texan by Nature, president of the Texas Wildlife Association Foundation, board member for Sand County Foundation, committee member for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and advisory board member for the Texas Ag Land Trust.
She has previously served as the president of the Texas Wildlife Association. Buford earned a bachelor of science in rangeland ecology and management from Texas A&M University at College Station. She received a certificate in Ranch Management from the Texas Christian University School of Ranch Management.
The Texas Wildlife Association was thrilled with Buford’s appointment.
“She has been a tireless advocate for educating young Texans about the value of wild places and wild things and how uniquely dependent they are on the private late stewardship here in the great state of Texas,” said David Yeates, TWA chief executive officer. “We are proud to have one of our key volunteer leaders selected for service by Gov. Abbott. We know she will be a tremendous asset to the Commission for Women.”
Additionally, Abbott named Catherine Susser as chairman and Alejandra De la Vega-Foster as vice chairman of the commission.
Since 1967, the Governor’s Commission for Women has served as a liaison between Texas women and government agencies, as well as private entities addressing women’s needs. The Commission helps women identify information and services best suited to their needs, as well as find solutions to emerging issues facing women.
“Empowering women is critical for families, communities and the State of Texas,” said Abbott in a press release. “The 15 commission members reflect the incredible strength and diversity of women leaders in the Lone Star State. It is my privilege as governor to work by their side.”
Additionally, Abbott announced the Commission will be restructured to focus on increasing opportunities in five key areas:
* Women-owned businesses
* Education through STEM
* Volunteerism
* Women and children’s health
* Women Veterans and service members
