As the calendar turns to 2026, the Texas Retired Teachers Association’s (TRTA) Board of Directors is embracing the new year with a shared sense of purpose, optimism, and resolve. Their New Year’s resolutions reflect a strong commitment to membership growth, community engagement, and strengthening TRTA’s role as the leading voice for public school retirees across Texas.
For Ella Gauthier, TRTA’s President, 2026 is all about energy and expansion. She sees the importance of TRTA continuing to be “The Voice for All Public Education Retirees.” She stresses visibility—both at the community level and across the state—and highlights the critical role chapters play in keeping TRTA connected to retirees. Just as important, Gauthier points to the Board of Directors as a support system for chapters as they work to increase engagement and involvement. Growth, she notes, happens when advocacy and grassroots connections work hand in hand.
Marcy Cann, TRTA’s Immediate Past President, echoes these sentiments. She envisions TRTA flourishing through the House of Delegates Live experience, sparking renewed excitement and momentum. That enthusiasm, she hopes, will translate into increased local chapter membership. With more than 400,000 Texas retirees not yet involved with TRTA, Cann emphasizes that now is the time to join and be part of the collective strength of the organization.
Frana Patterson, TRTA’s First Vice-President, has education and participation at the heart of her resolutions. She wants every retiree to understand why joining TRTA matters and to know that active participation can take many forms. From advocacy to chapter involvement, there is a place for everyone. Her bold goal for 2026: 100% delegate participation in the House of Delegates.
Terri Navrkal, TRTA’s Second Vice-President, is challenging members to step forward with positivity and leadership. “Try it—you might like it,” she urges, encouraging retirees to get involved. Her message is simple but powerful: be kind, check your attitude, work as a team, and don’t wait for someone else to lead—step up yourself.
Gary Schepf, TRTA’s Secretary/Treasurer, looks ahead with an eye toward structure and value. His resolution focuses on strengthening TRTA’s image by ensuring it delivers clear value to all Texas public school retirees. A unified dues structure—one payment that supports the chapter, district, and state—would, he believes, simplify membership and reinforce unity across the organization.
Karen Hoelscher, TRTA’s District Presidents Council Chair, sets her sights on growth across generations. She is committed to engaging retirees ages 55–65, helping TRTA reach its ambitious 100,000-member goal, and ensuring active teachers understand who TRTA is and why its mission matters.
Judy Kennedy, TRTA’s District Presidents Council Vice-Chair, brings inspiration and reflection to the new year. Comparing life to a camera, she encourages retirees to focus on what matters most, which starts with TRTA membership. She reminds members never to give up, pointing to the successful repeal of WEP and GPO as proof that persistence pays off. Above all, Kennedy believes TRTA stands on the edge of great things and is excited about what members can accomplish together.
Steve Evans, TRTA’s District Presidents Council Recorder, focuses on both the immediate and long-term work ahead. He shares his hope that TRTA will continue moving toward its goal of surpassing 100,000 members, while also successfully launching its first House of Delegates Live meeting—an opportunity to expand access and participation across the state. Looking ahead to advocacy, Evans emphasizes the importance of developing clear legislative priorities and working toward those goals in preparation for the 90th Texas Legislative Session.
Mary Widmier is TRTA’s Legislative Coordinator. Her resolutions are centered on achieving goals that are inspired by these quotes:
- “The secret of getting ahead is getting started” – Mark Twain
- “Believe you can and you’re halfway there” – Theodore Roosevelt
- “Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another” – John Dewey
Together, these resolutions reflect a unified vision for 2026: a stronger, more visible, more engaged TRTA—powered by members who believe in the impact they can make when they work together.
