The STAT Executive Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Devorah Jakubowsky, CAE, as the new STAT Executive Director, continuing our successful partnership with Strategic Association Management (SAM). 

With more than 2 decades of experience in association management and having served as the STAT Deputy Director for the past year, Devorah brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. Her exceptional leadership within STAT, coupled with her deep understanding of the organization's mission, vision, and values, marks an exciting chapter for both STAT and the Texas science education community. As Executive Director, Jakubowsky will guide the strategic direction of the organization in close collaboration with the STAT Executive Board, ensuring continued success.

Devorah's journey in association management began in 2001 at the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TMVA), where she served as the Deputy Executive Director, overseeing membership development, member services, affinity programs, and committees. She was conferred with the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential in 2010 underscoring her commitment to excellence in association management. Prior to her tenure with SAM and STAT, she served as the Executive Director for the Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association (TACCA), fostering strategic industry alliances and enhancing operational efficiency and organizational efficacy.

"We are thrilled to welcome Devorah into the role of Executive Director and anticipate her to build upon the remarkable legacy of past volunteer and staff leadership," says Kenric Davies, 2023–2024 STAT President. "Her leadership acumen, dedication to science education, and strategic foresight will undoubtedly propel STAT to unprecedented achievements as we continue our mission to inspire the discovery of the world through science statewide."

STAT extends its gratitude to JJ Colburn, CAE, for his service as Executive Director over the past 7 years, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the association. Colburn will continue in his position as co-CEO of SAM, ensuring continued support for STAT through this partnership. SAM, an Austin-based association management company, provides a dedicated team of seasoned professionals offering operational and strategic staffing support for STAT.