AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Dana McGrath, Patrick Sturdivant, and Tiffany Walker to the State Independent Living Council for terms set to expire on October 24, 2025. 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.

Dana McGrath of Austin is an associate commissioner at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. McGrath received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Rice University and a Master of Arts in Public Policy from George Washington University.

Patrick Sturdivant of San Antonio is a vice president and principal strategy consultant with Deque Systems, where he promotes digital inclusion for people of all abilities by guiding global organizations to develop or maintain digital accessibility programs that foster a culture of equality. He is a member of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals, former board member of the San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind, and former president of his homeowner’s association. Sturdivant received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from St. Mary’s University.

Tiffany Walker of San Antonio is the vice president of services for San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and a licensed professional counselor. She is a member of the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation. Additionally, she is a volunteer for the San Antonio Founders Lions Club, Chosen Care, and SJRC Texas, formerly known as St. Jude’s Ranch for Children. Walker received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Lamar University and a Master of Arts in Psychology from Our Lady of the Lake University.