For 40 years and counting, Every Texan has driven meaningful policy change inside the Capitol, grounding legislative advocacy in rigorous research and trusted data. Effective Feb. 16, the organization will begin a new chapter by welcoming Parisa Fatehi-Weeks as its next Executive Director.
In today’s Texas, and across the nation, policy decisions carry urgent and lasting consequences. Parisa is a leader uniquely positioned to guide the organization forward as Texas continues to act as a laboratory for high-profile national debates and demographic shifts. Her leadership will build durable momentum for change and continue Every Texan’s forty-year legacy of safeguarding democracy for Texans across the state.
“Texas is my home, and Every Texan plays a critical role in ensuring that it lives up to its potential as a state where resources are abundant, neighbors care for each other, and everyone can thrive,” said Fatehi-Weeks. “It is more important than ever that we stand together, strengthen relationships, and collaborate to solve the enormous challenges we face.”
Parisa brings meaningful experience spanning the private sector, higher education, and the nonprofit policy and advocacy ecosystem. At Indeed, she led multi-year, global initiatives to increase economic security and opportunities for millions of workers. At Google, she directed investments to close the digital divide for tens of thousands of families in urban, rural, and tribal communities across the U.S. At Public Advocates, a California-based nonprofit law firm and advocacy organization, Parisa built coalitions and established a “Climate Justice” practice to increase affordable housing and transportation for low-income communities. At the University of Texas at Austin School of Law, she created and taught Law, Poverty, & Opportunity, a course engaging future legal leaders in caselaw, policy, and advocacy in areas including social welfare, healthcare, housing, education, and the decriminalization of poverty. Parisa holds a deep understanding of how policy touches everyday lives.
“The Board is absolutely thrilled to have Parisa Fatehi-Weeks join the Every Texan team. Her unique background in the private and non-profit sectors, combined with her deep understanding of the issues facing Texans, will ensure we step into the next 40 years with continued strength, purpose and grit,” said Karen Farabee, Board Chair. “Her skills and insights, when coupled with the deep expertise of our staff, will continue the strong legacy and vision of our founders, the Benedictine Sisters and Helen Farabee, at a critical time in our state.”