Meet the Board...
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Board Members (2007-2008)
Cassandra Dahnke, Co-Founder
Cassandra Dahnke, along with Institute Co-Founder Tomas Spath, organized and led legislative conferences in Washington, DC for seven years. With good working relationships with members of Congress on both sides of the political aisle, Cassandra and Tomas have experience in engaging local citizens in the governing process effectively.
Cassandra is a graduate of Texas Tech University and Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
Kimberly Glaus-Late
Now serving a second term on the Board, Kimberly Glaus-Late is a graduate of Polytechnic State University, and has her M.A. in Public Administration from the University of Houston. She is the manager of the Space Food Systems Laboratory for Lockheed Martin at Johnson Space Center, and is Board president for Interfaith Caring Ministries, a social ministry coalition. Kimberly is married, and has two children. She and her husband Eric have lived in the Clear Lake area for 17 years and are members of Webster Presbyterian Church, where Kimberly has served as both deacon and elder. Kimberly has made several trips to Washington, DC to meet with legislators.
"The work of the Institute is important because it focuses on valuing effective communication, not espousing one particular view over another. If we lean to value one another's differences and have the ability to claim our views without belittling or degrading someone else, we will have improved the quality of civil discourse in our country."
Mark Winburn
Mark Winburn first served a one year unexpired term on the Board, and has now returned to serve a full two year term. Mark is a CPQ, CISA, and graduate of Texas Tech University. Currently working for SCI Management, Mark has 13 years of experience as an internal and external auditor and financial analyst. Mark is a husband, father, and active member of Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church in Houston, Texas. He is also a talented musician.
"I want people to have their own viewpoints and passionate discussion. That's healthy, and it's democracy in action. The key is expressing those views in a way that is respectful, demonstrates character and leadership, and sets a good example for future generation. WE may find that part of the foundation of our cherished freedoms is some voluntary self control (politeness, civility, courtesy) and a commitment to the well being of others. In a sense, we need to understand that we are part of something bigger than ourselves and bigger than our differences."
Bob Arnold
Bobbie Pheiffer
Jo williams
Additional Staff
Tomas Spath, Co-Founder
Institute Co-Founder Tomas Spath currently serves as Staff Liason to the Board.
Tomas is a graduate of Gettysburg College and McCormick Theological Seminary.