Women's History Month: Woman to Woman Series

This Women’s History Month, we are sharing the stories of some incredible women who’ve touched our lives and work. This is ‘Woman to Woman.’

Michelle Dudley and Brenda Garcia

Michelle sits down with Brenda Garcia of Goose Creek CISD. As Director of Facilities Planning and Construction and also the President of the A4LE-Association for Learning Environments Gulf Coast Chapter, Brenda navigates a traditionally male-dominated field with resilience. Her advice is straightforward: push the doubt aside, focus on your goals, and trust in your ability to achieve anything. And…Girls run the world!

Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora, of Tomball ISD, awarded 2023 Superintendent of the Year and the president-elect of TASA, also shines as a mentor, mother, and so much more. Pfluger’s Nicole Barrios sits down with Dr. Z to explore the innovative ideas pushing Tomball ISD forward and how she is creating a district-wide culture of community, teamwork, and learning that’s making a real difference. #teamtomball

In this episode, Robyn chats with Nicole Franco, Principal Coach, Leadership Development at Northside ISD. Nicole opens up about the inevitable challenges of climbing the career ladder, highlighting a truth many women face in leadership: the doubts of imposter syndrome. She also points out the incredible role that mentorship and support from experienced individuals play in sparking our confidence and driving us forward. Leadership isn’t handed out; it’s something you hustle for, sometimes harder than others, but Nicole assures us that when it’s your moment, you’ll know it, and nothing can hold you back!

Britany catches up with Hutto ISD‘s Dr. Lakesha Whitfield. From our initial work together on the Ninth Grade Center to her current role as Hutto High School Principal, it’s been amazing to watch Dr. Whitfield grow and lead with such heart. She reminds us to be fiercely ourselves, because nobody else can do it better!

Connie dives into Helen Ramirez’s extraordinary story, uncovering the drive and passion behind her role as a city manager and mentor. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring, filled with seized opportunities that have shaped her into a powerhouse! As a Latina woman running a city, Helen understands the importance of mentorship and actively lifts others up. She’s turned the City of Brownsville, Texas into a launching pad for future leaders with leadership programs and conferences she’s started.

Diana sits down with Dr. Duarte, Superintendent of Texas City ISD. Dr. Duarte stumbled into education by chance, teaching sixth grade, and never looked back. She reminds us that whatever path we choose, it’s our passion that makes it worthwhile!

Jazmín sits down with Dr. Blaine, Superintendent of Spring Branch ISD, in our “Woman to Woman” series. Her climb to her dream job wasn’t straightforward. She tackled almost every role in the district, faced each new challenge head-on, and stayed true to what she loves—the district and her community.

Both Heather and Ann hold Del Valle close to their hearts, serving together on the district’s education foundation. Throughout her lifetime, Ann has witnessed remarkable changes for women—from the landmark passage of Title IX to the rise of women leaders shaping our world today. Her message is to carry a vision. Think about the future we’re creating for future generations and remember that it’s okay to ask for help along the way. Building each other up and offering support is how we make real progress.

Pfluger’s Allie Schneider speaks with Paulette Gibbins, who after lots of volunteering and community involvement, landed what she calls her “unicorn job”. As Executive Director of Urban Land Institute (ULI) Austin, Paulette not only leads but supports her team like a true mentor, helping them grow and advance in their careers. She emphasizes the crucial role of soft skills, particularly for those in technical fields, encouraging them to embrace courses in communication that can truly set them apart. Paulette also tells students that no matter how you think, there is a place in the STEM field for you!

Merri and Angela both stand out as more than just women on site. As VP of Bartlett Cocke General Contractors, Angela takes the time to really know her team, focusing on what drives and motivates each person. She’s all about keeping spirits high, starting meetings with positivity to navigate through the things we can’t control. Beyond her VP duties, Angela is very involved with the ACE Mentor Program Houston, where she shares her love for construction with students and even founded the “Build It Forward” event.

Brenda and Sabrina spent years working together at Birdville ISD. They’ve shown that success comes easier when you lift each other up. Sabrina encourages us to grab hold of our confidence and go after what we’re capable of!!

Gigi Bryant might say she’s retired, but she’s far from stepping back from volunteering. Rhonda sits down with her today to get the story. Having grown up in foster care, Gigi places immense value on family and education. She’s a firm believer in being your own biggest supporter and understanding what really motivates you. Gigi’s advice is to always give what you can—time, skills, or resources—and do it without expecting anything in return. It’s about the impact, not the reward!

Here’s to the stories of empowerment, resilience, and authenticity, shared from woman to woman.

Women’s History Month: Woman to Woman Series