James R. Jesse resides in Burleson, Texas, and serves as the Executive Director of Education Opportunities Advancement Corporation (EOAC) Waco. With a decade of nonprofit leadership, James is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. He brings extensive experience in addressing educational disparities and empowering underserved communities. He is passionate about bringing together schools, nonprofits, churches, and community partners to expand educational opportunity and strengthen communities. James is honored to help Literacy ConneXus equip volunteers and organizations to serve learners with excellence, compassion, and hospitality.

Kanisha Johnson is a native of Waco, Texas, and a graduate of Baylor University. She currently serves as the Director of Community Programs at the Economic Opportunities Advancement Corporation (EOAC), where she leads initiatives that empower and uplift local families. Passionate about community action and creating lasting impact, Kanisha is dedicated to building strong partnerships and expanding opportunities for those she serves. Her experience in community engagement and collaborative leadership makes her a valuable member of the Literacy ConneXus Board of Directors. In her free time, she enjoys getting lost in a good book and exploring new ways to serve others.

Fred retired from Texas Baptists in December 2024, where he served as Area Four Representative. His work included coaching, training, and strategic planning for churches. Previously, Fred was a missionary with the International Mission Board, serving 10 years in Brazil and 5 in Estonia, where he trained pastors, planted churches, and led social ministries. He also served as a Minister of Education in Texas and Mississippi churches.

Fred holds three master’s degrees: MDiv and MRE from SWBTS and an MHRD from Midwestern State University.

He and his wife Susan have two married children and five grandchildren.

Dr. Shewanda Riley is an educator, speaker, author, and higher education leader with a passion for empowering students through education and lifelong learning. She serves at Tarrant County College and brings extensive experience in teaching, leadership, and community engagement. Dr. Riley has published both academic and inspirational works and is a sought-after speaker on topics including resilience, faith, and personal growth, and is host of the Chocolate Auntie Podcast. As a member of the Literacy ConneXus Board of Directors, she contributes her expertise in education, strategic leadership, and community impact to help expand literacy and English language learning opportunities for adults and families.

Kristyn Kidney is an experienced English language educator and leader with more than 26 years of experience in ESOL instruction, teacher development, and international education. She serves as Academic Manager at Pacific International Academy at the University of Portland and is co-director of The Language Hospitality Project, a nonprofit that equips churches to welcome and serve multilingual communities through English ministry. Kristyn is passionate about helping churches and communities build meaningful relationships with immigrants and refugees through language learning and hospitality. As a member of the Literacy ConneXus Board of Directors, she brings deep expertise in ESL education, nonprofit collaboration, and strategic ministry partnerships.

Tura Cason is a veteran educator with more than 35 years of experience in elementary education, reading instruction, and English learner success. Throughout her career, she has served as a classroom teacher, ESL educator, reading coach, instructional specialist, curriculum developer, and regional trainer, helping schools across Texas strengthen literacy instruction and improve student outcomes. Tura is passionate about equipping teachers with practical, research-based strategies that empower every child to become a confident reader. As a member of the Literacy ConneXus Board of Directors, she brings a lifetime of expertise in literacy education, instructional leadership, and a deep commitment to serving multilingual learners and their families.