# Top Association Leaders in Texas: 2026 | USLege Awards > Texas's top association leaders for 2026: the peer-nominated Association Champions of the USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards. Canonical: https://www.uslege.ai/best-in-government-affairs/texas/association-advocates --- [Best in Government Affairs](/best-in-government-affairs)›[Texas](/best-in-government-affairs/texas)›Association Champion USLege · Best in Government Affairs · Texas Texas · 2026 Winners # Association _Champion_ The advocates leading Texas’s associations and trade groups. [See the honorees](#winners)[All Texas categories](/best-in-government-affairs/texas) The top association leaders in Texas turn the collective voice of an industry into real influence, representing trade groups, professional associations, and coalitions before the legislature. The USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards recognize them as Texas's Association Champions of the Year for 2026, chosen by peers across the advocacy community. There is no cost to be featured. Meet the association advocates below, the leaders driving results for members across Texas. ## Association Champion of the Year Recognizes someone who leads government affairs for a trade, professional, or statewide business association with clarity, credibility, and results. Whether testifying on behalf of hundreds of members or shaping long-term policy strategy, this is the trusted voice decision-makers listen to. 9 Honorees ![Jamie Dudensing, President & CEO, Texas Association of Health Plans](/assets/awards/bde8ca53da_68f15aa517f2574b666625e8_image__13_.avif) ### [Jamie Dudensing](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiedudensing) President & CEO [Texas Association of Health Plans](https://tahp.org/) Jamie Dudensing is the President and CEO of the Texas Association of Health Plans (TAHP), the statewide association for public and private health plans. Under her leadership, TAHP works to give Texans and Texas employers access to affordable coverage while improving access to quality health coverage for the uninsured. A graduate of the University of Texas LBJ School of Public Affairs and the Texas Tech University School of Nursing, Jamie began her career in Austin as the Capitol nurse before earning her master’s in public affairs. She went on to serve two legislative sessions as the Health and Human Services Budget Analyst for the Texas House Appropriations Committee, followed by senior roles in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, including Senior Advisor for Budget and Policy and later Deputy Chief of Staff and Policy Director for Lt. Governor David Dewhurst. With more than two decades of experience in health care and budget policy, Jamie brings to TAHP a deep understanding of the legislative process and a strong record of coordinating policy strategy, testifying before committees, and collaborating with state leaders to improve health care policy in Texas. ![Trent Hightower, General Counsel & Director of Government Relations, Texas Veterinary Medical Association](/assets/awards/41e2778603_68f12a3a8c26322abb9195c2_headshot.avif) ### [Trent Hightower](https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-hightower-387975b1/) General Counsel & Director of Government Relations [Texas Veterinary Medical Association](https://www.tvma.org) Trent Hightower brings both precision and purpose to his role as General Counsel and Director of Government Relations for the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA), where he represents more than 5,400 veterinarians, students, licensed veterinary technicians, and industry professionals across Texas. A trusted advocate at the Capitol, Trent’s work is rooted in the TVMA mission to promote, protect, and advance the veterinary medical profession and animal health for the well-being of animals and humans alike. Known for his calm command of the process and his ability to bridge science, policy, and compassion, Trent has earned the respect of legislators, regulators, and veterinary professionals alike. “Trent is a respected and experienced advocate at the Texas Capitol,” one nominator wrote. “He represents the best of our profession with integrity and expertise.” Since joining TVMA in 2021, Trent has managed the association’s legislative initiatives, guided its political action committee, and strengthened bipartisan relationships that ensure veterinarians’ voices are heard on issues that affect both their profession and the public they serve. His thoughtful, measured approach has made him a trusted resource for policymakers and a steady leader for one of Texas’s oldest professional associations. A proud graduate of Texas A&M University and the Texas Tech University School of Law, Trent continues to combine his love of policy and advocacy with his lifelong commitment to the health and well-being of animals and those who care for them. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Trent Hightower represents the professionalism, focus, and heart that define Texas’s most effective advocates for their industries and communities. ![Tray Bates, Vice President of Governmental Affairs, Texas REALTORS](/assets/awards/334aeb10c5_68f12a04523bc2bf6885bb84_Tray_Bates_2140.avif) ### [Tray Bates](https://www.linkedin.com/in/traybates/) Vice President of Governmental Affairs [Texas REALTORS](https://www.texasrealestate.com) In Texas real estate, few names carry more respect than Tray Bates. As Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Texas REALTORS®, he leads advocacy efforts that protect property rights, strengthen communities, and keep one of the state’s largest industries moving forward. Those who work with Tray describe him simply: “He’s the best.” That sentiment reflects the professionalism, knowledge, and integrity that have defined his more than 30-year career in real estate and public policy. Whether guiding complex legislation, uniting local and national REALTOR® associations, or helping members navigate emerging issues, Tray is known for his steady leadership and deep understanding of both the people and the process behind every policy. Before taking on his current role, Tray spent over a decade serving Texas REALTORS® as a volunteer leader, including as Chairman of the Board in 2019 and has held every key leadership position at both the Corpus Christi Association of REALTORS® and the South Texas Commercial Association of REALTORS®, which he helped found. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing the real estate profession and ensuring Texans’ right to own, use, and transfer property freely and responsibly. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Tray Bates represents the clarity, credibility, and commitment that define Texas’s strongest association advocates. ![Sandy Hoy, Vice President & General Counsel, Texas Apartment Association](/assets/awards/c35b3fe560_68f129d48994f23cbdb0272c_Sandy_-_grey_background.avif) ### [Sandy Hoy](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-garcia-hoy-75a52615) Vice President & General Counsel [Texas Apartment Association](https://www.taa.org) As Vice President and General Counsel of the Texas Apartment Association, Sandy Hoy has spent nearly a decade leading one of the state’s most effective and respected advocacy operations. Under her guidance, TAA has become a model of what strong association leadership looks like. Uniting diverse members, navigating sensitive policy issues, and delivering legislative results that reshape an entire industry. In 2025, Sandy and the TAA team led the successful passage of Senate Bill 38, the most significant modernization and simplification of Texas eviction law in more than 30 years. The initiative clarified and streamlined procedures, eliminated inefficiencies, and brought consistency to a process that had long frustrated property owners and residents alike. The legislation’s impact was described by members as “transformational for property owners, managers, and residents across the state.” As one nominator wrote, “This effort required not just technical expertise, but also vision and tenacity. By securing passage of SB 38, TAA demonstrated what strong association leadership can achieve.” Sandy’s steady hand, legal expertise, and collaborative approach were central to that success. In addition to legislative reform, she oversees TAA’s industry-leading lease program and provides guidance on housing policy and operations statewide; earning recognition as one of Texas’s top lobbyists and trusted industry voices. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Sandy Hoy and the Texas Apartment Association exemplify how focused, credible advocacy can deliver lasting, statewide change for both members and the communities they serve. ![Perry Fowler, Executive Director, Texas Water Infrastructure Network](/assets/awards/73aaca8d5c_68f12997d54241d9998789fb_IMG_3484.avif) ### [Perry Fowler](https://www.linkedin.com/in/perry-fowler/) Executive Director [Texas Water Infrastructure Network](https://www.txwin.org/) Perry Fowler has built his career around one of Texas’s most critical challenges: ensuring the state’s water infrastructure keeps pace with its growth. As Executive Director of the Texas Water Infrastructure Network (TXWIN), he has become a respected and unifying voice in the complex world of infrastructure, construction, and public policy. This past legislative session, Perry led his industry with the kind of professionalism and persistence that earns respect on both sides of the aisle. One nominator described him as having “helped usher some really important legislation through the process - doing it respectfully and like a pro.” That balance of policy depth and constructive engagement has become his trademark at the Capitol. Under Perry’s leadership, TXWIN has helped shape major funding and reform initiatives, including the creation of the Texas Water Fund, a generational investment in the state’s future. His advocacy has strengthened collaboration between public agencies, contractors, and utilities.  He ensured that Texas communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive. Beyond TXWIN, Perry also represents Texas811, advancing safe excavation and utility coordination statewide. With over two decades of experience, he’s widely recognized for turning technical issues into actionable, bipartisan policy solutions. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Perry Fowler embodies credible, constructive advocacy;  bringing professionalism, integrity, and long-term vision to one of Texas’s most essential policy arenas. ![Megan Mauro, Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff, later Interim Preside, Texas Association of Business](/assets/awards/26d5032bfa_68f1295d8508e156cade0c77_Mauro_Megan_976-0862-Retouched_June_2025_TCCE.avif) ### [Megan Mauro](https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-mauro-14863326/) Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff, later Interim Preside [Texas Association of Business](https://www.txbiz.org) Few people embody the spirit of advocacy and leadership in the Texas business community quite like Megan Mauro. As Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff at the Texas Association of Business, she stands at the center of one of the state’s most influential advocacy networks. Balancing major policy initiatives, diverse member priorities, and an ever-evolving economic landscape with precision and poise. Colleagues describe her as “a tireless champion of TAB policies who works night and day on behalf of the business community.” Under her leadership, TAB delivered significant legislative wins during the 89th Session, including the launch of Employers for Childcare (E4C) - a groundbreaking business-driven council focused on addressing childcare access as an economic issue. One nominator called it “a partnership so desperately needed that we literally yelled, ‘FINALLY!’ when it came together.” Megan’s influence extends beyond the headline victories. She directs key coalitions such as Tech Means Business and the Chamber Advocacy Coalition, while also managing operations, events, and board engagement behind the scenes. “Megan can do and has done every job there is to do at TAB,” another nominator said. “All of the members love her and know how hard she works.” Her willingness to take on difficult issues, even when politically challenging, has earned her deep respect across industries. As one peer put it, “She was a great partner to the tech industry and helped shoulder the legislative burden.” As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Megan represents the very best of Texas advocacy; dedicated, strategic, and always fighting for progress on behalf of the state’s employers. ![Logan Harrell, General Counsel & Director of Regulatory Affairs, Texas Chemistry Council](/assets/awards/620223724b_68f12928ad83ad448894901d_Harrell_Headshot.avif) ### [Logan Harrell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/logan-harrell-593a31a4/) General Counsel & Director of Regulatory Affairs [Texas Chemistry Council](https://texaschemistry.org) In his first legislative session representing the Texas Chemistry Council, Logan Harrell made an immediate impression at the Capitol. He earned respect from both sides of the aisle for his command of complex environmental law and his calm, straightforward style. As General Counsel and Director of Regulatory Affairs, Logan has quickly become a trusted advocate for an industry central to Texas’s economy and innovation. Peers describe him as “a straight shooter” and “insanely knowledgeable,” noting that his thoughtful advocacy and balanced approach to testimony won credibility even among those who disagreed. His composure and charisma made him a quick favorite among members and staff, while his attention to detail ensured the industry’s priorities were always well-represented. Before joining the Texas Chemistry Council, Logan served in key state government roles including Assistant Attorney General in the Environmental Protection Division at the Office of the Texas Attorney General and Staff Attorney at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. That background gave him a deep understanding of the regulatory frameworks he now helps shape. At TCC, Logan supports legislative and regulatory advocacy on environmental and water policy - ensuring that Texas remains both economically competitive and environmentally responsible. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Logan Harrell represents the next generation of industry leadership; informed, composed, and respected for his ability to turn expertise into effective advocacy. ![Kristen Lenau, Policy Director, Texas Women's Healthcare Coalition](/assets/awards/542ed9f5e5_68f128eee0420feb38445026_C.avif) ### [Kristen Lenau](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenlenau/) Policy Director [Texas Women's Healthcare Coalition](https://www.texaswhc.org) Kristen Lenau is one of the most passionate and fearless advocates at the Texas Capitol. As Policy Director for the Texas Women’s Healthcare Coalition, she leads efforts to improve access to care and advance the health and dignity of women and families across the state. > “Kristen shows up every day with heart, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of women across Texas,” one nominator shared. “She goes above and beyond, whether she’s in the Capitol fighting for policy change or working with partners to find real solutions for low-income women’s health needs.” Another added, “She maintains positive relationships with staff on both sides of the aisle, always thinking ten steps ahead and bringing diplomacy and expertise to every conversation.” With more than 15 years of experience working with women and families affected by violence and trauma, Kristen’s career has spanned advocacy, public health, and international policy work. She has served as an expert witness on sexual violence and human trafficking and held leadership roles at both the Texas Council on Family Violence and the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault before joining TWHC. Her approach, equal parts strategic and empathetic, has helped build momentum for bills that had long struggled to move, proving that good policy begins with good relationships. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Kristen Lenau represents the courage, compassion, and tenacity that define Texas’s most effective advocates for their members and communities. ![Kimberly Lile-Dowty, Associate Director, Texas Association of Regional Councils](/assets/awards/d0f8eb9b29_68f128b00d40b9d4ae830139_HiRes-Lile__Kimberly-9847.avif) ### [Kimberly Lile-Dowty](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-dowty) Associate Director [Texas Association of Regional Councils](https://txregionalcouncil.org) For more than a decade, Kimberly Lile-Dowty has been the steady hand and strategic mind guiding the Texas Association of Regional Councils (TARC). As Associate Director, she leads statewide policy initiatives that unite Texas’s 24 Councils of Governments. Helping communities across the state plan, prepare, and prosper through collaboration. Her leadership has shaped legislation, built partnerships, and strengthened programs that touch nearly every corner of Texas. Association leadership is rarely simple, especially in a state as large and diverse as Texas. Yet Kimberly has made it look seamless. One nominator described her as “the dedicated backbone quietly and continuously supporting this organization,” crediting her with the clarity, patience, and institutional knowledge needed to focus strong local personalities and competing priorities around shared goals. Through her work with TARC, Kimberly has helped communities enhance critical services such as emergency preparedness, community and economic development, support for older Texans, environmental planning, and regional 9-1-1 systems. She’s known for bringing people together. Helping local, state, and federal leaders find common ground and long-term solutions to complex regional challenges. As one of this year’s Association Champions of the Year, Kimberly Lile-Dowty represents the best of Texas association leadership; collaborative, informed, and deeply committed to strengthening the communities that make this state thrive. Questions ## About top Texas association leaders. ### Who are the top association leaders in Texas? The advocates recognized as Association Champions of the Year in the 2026 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards, leaders of trade and professional associations chosen by their peers. ### What does an association advocate do? They represent the shared interests of an industry or profession, a trade group, professional association, or coalition, before the legislature and state agencies. ### How are Association Champions chosen? By peer nomination, at no cost to nominate or be featured, based on the strength and volume of nominations. ### Can I nominate someone for Association Champion of the Year next year? Yes. The 2027 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards will be announced next year, and there is never a cost to nominate or be featured. Nominations carry more weight when they come from a peer who has worked with the nominee directly. ### Where can I see all the 2026 Texas Best in Government Affairs honorees? The full list of every 2026 category winner is on the [Texas Best in Government Affairs Awards](https://www.uslege.ai/best-in-government-affairs/texas) page, searchable by name or firm. Every Category ## Explore the other _Texas categories_. The 2026 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards recognize Texas honorees across eight categories. Browse them all, or see the complete list on the Texas page. [Top Hired Gun Lobbyists](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/best-lobbyists)[Lobby Legends](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/most-powerful-lobbyists)[Top Staffer](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/top-staffers)[Female Powerhouse](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/top-female-lobbyists)[Rising Stars](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/rising-stars)[Association Champion](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/association-advocates)[Strategic Communicator](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/public-affairs-communicators)[Policy Intelligence Leaders](/best-in-government-affairs/texas/top-policy-experts) Best in Government Affairs · Texas ## See _all 89 Texas honorees_. These are the Association Champion. Explore every peer-nominated professional recognized in the 2026 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards for Texas. [View the full Texas list](/best-in-government-affairs/texas)