Foundation Board Forum
On October 29, 2025, the Mary E. Bivins Foundation hosted a Foundation Board Forum, convening board members from twelve Panhandle foundations for a day of learning, conversation, and connection.
Sarah Rountree Schlessinger, CEO of Texas Water Foundation, leads a panel discussion of water issues and projections for our area with Drew Satterwhite of the Canadian Red River Municipal Water Authority, Janet Guthrie with the North Plains Groundwater Conservation District, and Britney Britten of the Panhandle Groundwater Conservation District.
Pictured on the left, Katharyn Wiegand, President and CEO of the Mary E. Bivins Foundation, asks questions during the Legislative Update to Texas House Representatives John Smithee and Caroline Fairly. Pictured on the right, Dyron Howell with Snack Pak 4 Kids shares an overview of the organization's buying cooperative which benefits local nonprofit food providers in the Texas Panhandle and beyond.
Addressing Regional Challenges Together
The Forum was created in response to a growing desire for deeper, locally grounded learning opportunities for foundation leadership. Designed with the Texas Panhandle in mind, the gathering centered on the region’s unique challenges and opportunities, with informed discussion on topics such as water sustainability, legislative priorities, and the future of food security. Experts from across the region and state guided these conversations, bringing both perspective and practical insight.
Equally important, the Forum provided a rare opportunity for foundation board members to learn alongside one another, share experiences, and strengthen relationships across organizations. By creating space for dialogue and collaboration, the Foundation sought to support thoughtful governance and informed stewardship throughout the philanthropic community.
Participating Foundations
The Mary E. Bivins Foundation is grateful to the speakers and participants who contributed their time, insight, and engagement, and looks forward to building on this effort in partnership with participating foundations as part of its ongoing commitment to regional impact.