Announcing the 2026 Texas Water Leaders

Texas Water Foundation is proud to announce the seventh class of the Texas Water Leaders (TWL) program. Beginning on April 15, these Water Leaders will engage in eight months of dynamic training sessions ranging from presentation skills to team management. More importantly, they will have the opportunity to connect with Texas water professionals from across the state and sector.

Every class is unique and based on that year’s applicant pool, but it is always intentionally representative of different industries, geographies, and backgrounds. This year’s class represents that same commitment, with a slight increase in representation from the Rio Grande Valley as well as nonprofits. New this year, 2026 Texas Water Leaders will join program alumni in a mock hearing at the Texas Capitol.

Josh Sendejar, Texas Water Leaders Program Manager, is looking forward to expanding the program to offer even more opportunities than in past years.

“This year, we’ve added an eleventh day of training specifically focused on legislative testimony,” said Sendajar. “Not only does this additional day allow more time for water leaders to experience the legislative hearing process first-hand, it also allows them to test the public speaking skills they’re learning in the program.”

Upon graduation, participants emerge with an improved sense of their role in the larger ecosystem of Texas water and with a deeper trust in their peers. Together, they set themselves up to navigate an increasingly challenging sector.  

“Over the past six years, the Texas Water Leaders program has helped cultivate a new generation of leaders dedicated to a secure water future in Texas,” said Sarah Schlessinger, CEO of Texas Water Foundation. “With more than 100 graduates of the program, we are seeing these leaders not only shape their own paths, but strengthen the sector as a whole. As this alumni network grows, so does the importance of keeping classes connected, continuing to learn from and support one another.”

In that stream of thought, program alumni were asked what value the network could provide, leading to the creation of the first Texas Water Leaders Summit to be held this May. This event provides an opportunity for continued connection amongst the Texas Water Leaders and for professional development beyond the program. 

Additional alumni events include webinars covering timely water policy issues and an annual Alumni Paddle, which allows for these water leaders to connect with one another.

Congratulations to our 2026 Texas Water Leaders class. Read the list below to learn more about the members of this year’s class: 

Adeline Fox