The TSRC is proud to present the following slate of candidates for the Board of Directors for 2025. Voting will take place through the AARConnect. To vote you must be a member of the AARC. Log into the AARConnect and navigate to the Texas Society Community. You will find the link to the ballot. Voting is open and continue until September 25. Please cast your ballot for the next members of the Board of Directors to the TSRC.
President-elect candidate
Jose D. Rojas, PhD, RRT, RPFT, FAARC
Platform statement.
We are at a crucial juncture for respiratory therapy. The APRT and a clinical doctorate for respiratory therapy are within our reach. To become reality requires an active state society and leadership that will influence the legislation required to enhance the respiratory therapy scope of practice. Having served on the Board of Directors of the American College of Respiratory Therapy Education and collaborating with national leaders of our profession has provided me with the skills to help propel the TSRC in this exciting direction. I look forward to the opportunity to serve the TSRC.
Secretary Candidates
April Gardner, MHA, RRT, RRT-NPS
Platform Statement:
As a leader for respiratory therapy in a pediatric hospital, I am committed to advancing respiratory care and promoting the interests of respiratory therapists throughout our organization. As secretary of the TSRC, I am dedicated to supporting the growth and development of our profession and advocating for policies that elevate the standard of respiratory care in our state. I want to give back to our state society to help grow, promote, and elevate our respiratory therapists throughout this great state.
Lindsey Franks, RRT
Platform statement:
My name is Lindsey Franks, and I am excited to be running for TSRC Secretary. I have served as a Registered Respiratory Therapist for 11 years, of which I have served as a Supervisor for 6 years. I have reviewed the duties assigned, and with my experience as a clinician and supervisor, I feel that I obtain the skills required to proficiently fulfill the TSRC Secretary tasks. As an experienced leader I understand that communication and transparency is imperative. I will work diligently to ensure TSRC meetings and events are appropriately recorded and communication is disseminated in a timely manner. I pledge to use my time serving as TSRC Secretary work together with the TSRC officers and members.
Regional Director Candidates
South Region
Kim Garcia, MEd, RRT-NPS, RCP
Platform Statement:
I believe education is the key to long term success of the profession of Respiratory Care. I will continue working to support continuing education opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley and South Region. I will lend help and support to other TSRC educational programs across Texas. I will promote the profession through involvement in TSRC events and activities, by working with educational programs in my district/region and in cooperation with local institutions employing RTs in the RGV and South Region.
West Region
Angel Melendez, MSRC, MHL, RRT, NPS, AEC
Platform Statement:
Bringing CARE to Respiratory Care
AARC House of Delegate Candidates
Christa Mitchell, MBA, RRT
Platform Statement:
I am honored to run for TSRC Delegate, I vow to amplify our strategic objectives. Leveraging partnerships with HOSA, we'll spotlight respiratory care's vitality and inspire future RTs. Yet, our focus extends beyond recruitment. Hot topics like telehealth integration, COPD management, and diversity in healthcare demand attention. As liaison, I'll advocate for policies addressing these crucial issues, ensuring our field stays at the forefront of innovation. Empowering students to engage with these discussions fosters a robust future for respiratory care. Let's navigate these challenges together, propelling our profession towards greater excellence and inclusivity.
Wendy Castro, MSRC, RRT, RRT-NPS
Platform Statement
We are in an everchanging environment that requires growth and inclusion. Respiratory care needs all of our members to collaborate and move our profession forward. I look forward to working with TSRC membership to change with the times and believe our members are our future.
Richard Hernandez, MSHP, RRT
Platform Statement
As a dedicated respiratory therapist, I am committed to advancing our profession through education, advocacy, and innovation. As your delegate, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our voices are heard, our practices are supported, and our patients receive the highest quality of care. I will advocate for continuing education opportunities, increased public awareness of respiratory health, and policies that enhance our practice environment. Together, we can elevate the standards of respiratory care in Texas and beyond. Your support is crucial in driving these initiatives forward. Let's collaborate for a healthier future.
Russell Graham, BSRC, RRT, RCP, FAARC
Platform Statement
I have served the TSRC in multiple capacities for several years. I feel that my experience would be well-served in the office of Delegate, especially as our profession navigates its future. Thank you for your consideration!