The Texas LGD Association operates through standing committees that support its mission to promote responsible, science-based use of livestock guardian dogs across Texas and the nation. Committees are made up of board members and general members who contribute expertise, time, and leadership to advance education, outreach, policy, and organizational sustainability.

Members are strongly encouraged to volunteer for committees aligned with their interests and experience.

Membership Committee

Purpose:
The Membership Committee oversees all activities that promote, grow, and retain membership within the Association. Committee members work with Directors at Large to represent the Association at events statewide, review annual membership records, and identify strategies to strengthen and preserve membership engagement. The committee meets at least quarterly.

Current Participants:

• • Maureen Gray* – Director, Region 4
  • Vivian Altimore
  • Michael Denham

Fundraising Committee

Purpose:
The Fundraising Committee oversees all Association fundraising activities, including field days, workshops, and webinars. The committee also explores new revenue streams to support long-term financial sustainability. The committee meets at least quarterly.

Current Participants:

• • Nathan Weiss* – Director, Region 3
  • Hal Farris

Additional volunteers are encouraged to join this committee.

Legislative Committee

Purpose:
The Legislative Committee oversees communication with public officials on issues, laws, and regulations affecting the breeding, management, and use of livestock guardian dogs in Texas and nationwide. The committee meets at least annually, or more frequently as needed in response to legislative or regulatory activity.

Current Participants:

• • Michael Denham* – michael@fultonfamilyfarm.com
  • Patricia King
  • Sandra Pfeuffer
  • Joanie Garro
  • Cathy Gleason

Outreach & Communications Committee

Purpose:
The Outreach & Communications Committee manages all Association advertising and communications. Responsibilities include print and online marketing, newsletters, website content, and social media. The committee supports promoting events and educating the general public about livestock guardian dogs. The committee meets at least quarterly.

Current Participants:

• • Tanner Vaughan* – Director, Region 2
  • Amanda Stoffels – President
  • Patricia King
  • Kevin Downs

Education Committee

Purpose:
The Education Committee oversees all educational programming for the Association, including the annual field day, webinars, workshops, and other training opportunities. The committee works closely with Outreach & Communications to promote educational events and materials.

Current Participants:

• • Darrell Glen* – Director, Region 1
  • Sky Toney
  • Debbie Clifton – Vice President
  • Kathryn Neegard
  • Azzhaley Reynolds

Budget & Finance Committee

Purpose:
The Budget & Finance Committee oversees the Association’s budget and financial operations. The Vice President and Treasurer chair the committee. Responsibilities include quarterly financial reporting to the President, annual account reviews, and ensuring professional audits are conducted at least once every three years. Committee membership includes board leadership, a Director at Large, and experienced members familiar with the Association’s financial history.

Current Participants:

• • Bill Costanzo* – Treasurer
  • Debbie Clifton* – Vice President
  • David Ortiz – Director at Large, Region 5
  • Jessica Goodwin – Member
  • Levi Schultz – Member
  • Kristal Spenrath – Long-standing Member

Committee Participation

Committee service is open to members in good standing and plays a critical role in advancing the Texas LGD Association’s mission. Members interested in joining a committee or learning more about committee responsibilities are encouraged to contact the Association or a current committee chair.

* – Committee chairs

Committee Interest Sign-Up – Texas LGD Association

The Texas LGD Association relies on member-led committees to advance education, outreach, ethical practices, and organizational sustainability. Committee service is one of the most direct ways to support producers and to strengthen the responsible use of LGDs nationwide.

If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the Committee Interest Sign-Up here. You do not need prior committee experience; you just need a willingness to contribute and communicate. Committee leads will follow up with you after submission.

How Committee Service Works

• • Most committees meet at least quarterly (some meet annually or as needed).
  • You may serve on more than one committee.
  • Participation can range from occasional support (reviewing materials, helping at an event) to regular involvement (planning, leadership, coordination).
  • Committee membership is open to members in good standing.