Position 
on Board: Vice Chair
Counties represented: Angelina
Randy George, President of William George, a wholesale food distributor in Angelina County has served on the Burke board since 2009. George has been married to Judy George for 32 years and they have three kids, all of whom graduated from Texas A&M and who – most importantly – all have jobs! Read more about Randy George and his contribution to the Burke Board here on our website.
How did you first get involved with Burke?
Well, when we were growing up, we knew that my cousin had some developmental disabilities. So we learned about Burke through the services he received here. Burke has been a part of my family’s life for so long, and I think a lot of East Texans can say that.
What was your first impression of Burke?
I had a very personal, “service-based” impression of Burke because of my cousin. I always had a high opinion of Burke, but now that I’m on the board, I have a much better understanding of the organization’s reach throughout the whole region.
What do you wish other people knew about Burke?
I wish that people knew more about what Burke does and about all of the different programs that Burke offers. Because of the media coverage that follows many mental health crises, people are aware of the problems, but they don’t always know where to turn for help.
What do you think will change about Burke (or the MH/IDD service realm) over the next five years?
Funding is always a concern for service organizations. Burke has been able to make incredible use of a new funding source, called 1115 funding. We’ve hired new staff and cut waitlists completely. But that funding ends this year, so I’m worried that we’ll have to pull back on programs and capacity. But I’m always worried about that, and Burke always finds a way to move forward.
How would someone describe you?
I’m a facts guy. I like to see results. I also like to see thoughtful strategy. I think the successful organizations and businesses are looking 10 years out, trying to look around the next corner.
What do you do when you aren’t volunteering?
I work! Really. I work a lot…usually 6 days a week. I love A&M football and go to all the home Aggie games. And I love taking family trips to the Texas coast.
