Board Of Directors
Get to know the dedicated individuals who make up the Board of Directors. Each member brings unique skills and passion to support TARS Awareness Texas and TARS & Friends.
All board positions are non-paid and strictly on a Volunteer Basis per the Bylaws of TARS Awareness Texas.
Emma Hamann
Queen Bee
"She started as our TARS Warrior Princess and is morphing into our Queen Bee!"
Marla Hamann
Founder
"Mother, Author, and Founder of TARS Awareness Texas!"
William Grimes
Chief Executive Officer
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Background:
US Navy Veteran and Senior executive with 30+ years of extensive experience in human resources, operations, and leadership in profit and non-profit organizations.
Expertise:
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Organizational leadership
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Compliance & governance
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Strategic growth
Role at TARS:
Oversees organizational strategy, board governance, and operational alignment of TARS Awareness Texas and TARS & Friends missions.
Why TARS:
Committed to building sustainable programs that create real opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Edwin Antrim
Chief Operating Officer
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Background:
US Navy Veteran and seasoned leader with a diverse background in nonprofit management and strategic marketing, specializing in public relations and community engagement.
Expertise
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Large-scale team leadership
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Task-oriented project management
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Public speaking & communication
Role at TARS:
Oversees organizational strategy, board governance, and operational alignment with TARS’ mission.
Why TARS:
I am driven by a personal passion for creating lasting, practical pathways that empower individuals with disabilities to thrive.
Eva De Jesus
Chief Financial Officer
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Background:
Results-driven Finance Manager with 20+ years of experience, blending strong corporate finance skills with a deep understanding & appreciation of community.
Expertise:
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Community Connection & Networking
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Fundraising & Resource Development
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Team building & Collaboration
Role at TARS:
Financial Oversight. Setting budget & expenses. Understanding financial statements, and fiscal health to protect the organizations assets and reputation.
Why TARS:
I am extremely passionate about expanding knowledge, understanding & opportunities for TARS community utilizing my skills to achieve mission and grow globally.
Bonnie Antrim
Chief Development Officer
Background:
Over 15 years of experience in fundraising and event planning organizing impactful initiatives and supporting organizations to achieve goals at the local, state and national level.
Expertise
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Organization and Team Leadership
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Project management
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Coordinating community action
Role at TARS:
Oversees and coordinates fundraising and event planning within the operational alignment of TARS’ mission.
Why TARS:
I am driven by a belief that no one should ever feel alone and I am committed to ensuring that every individual knows that there is a caring community here to help in whatever way we can.
Johnny Marquez
Chief Information Officer
Melissa Grimes
Voting Board Member
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Background:
International Logistics and Supply professional with over 15 years of Volunteer experience working with various non-profits throughout the United States and abroad.
Expertise
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Logistics
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Project management
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Public speaking & communication
Role at TARS:
As the Voting Board Member I do not have a direct area of control. My role is to be fluid and understand all aspects of the Board and areas of responsibility so that I can assist in whatever way is needed.
Why TARS:
I am driven by a personal passion for helping people and believe in the Mission and Vision of TARS Awareness Texas and TARS & Friends.
Kayla Salinas
Board Advisor - Non Voting Member