Governor Abbott Reappoints Three To State Independent Living Council
Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Thomas Michael “Mike” Bates, Keisha Rowe Nunn, and Colton J. Read to the State Independent Living Council for terms set to expire on October 24, 2022. The council develops the State Plan for Independent Living and serves as a resource to state and local organizations on Independent Living and related issues for persons with disabilities.
Thomas Michael “Mike” Bates of Odessa is a patient simulator at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He is a volunteer and former state director for the American Council of the Blind and a member of the National Federation for the Blind. Additionally, he volunteers for the American Cancer Society. Bates is a graduate of Arlington High School.
Keisha Rowe Nunn of Austin is the director of the Office for Independence Services at Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Nunn received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Austin College in Sherman and a Master of Healthcare Administration from Texas State University.
Colton J. Read of New Braunfels is the owner of Gruene Shredding, and is currently the chair of the State Independent Living Council. Additionally, he was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force, and has served as a Wounded Warrior Mentor and as treasurer of the Veterans Alliance at Texas State University. Read received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas State University.