H.R. No. 1730
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Patrick Bresette retired as executive director of
Children's Defense Fund-Texas in April 2023, drawing to a close an
exemplary career in public policy spanning more than three decades;
and
WHEREAS, Appointed executive director in 2014, Mr. Bresette
was instrumental in securing millions of dollars in dedicated
funding to support the organization's mission; he built a strong
team by fostering a culture of compassion and care, enabling staff
members to make a significant positive impact even during
exceptionally challenging times; under his leadership, the Texas
office expanded direct child health outreach and enrollment, and it
increased advocacy and organizing efforts in behalf of the
uninsured; moreover, it developed a new youth civic education and
engagement initiative and served as a voice for immigrant children
and families; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Bresette previously served as executive
director of Public Works, a nonprofit organization committed to
promoting greater understanding and appreciation of the vital role
of the public sector and civic responsibility; he traveled
nationally to help leaders and activists around the country make a
compelling case for public systems and structures at the local,
state, and federal levels; from 1991 to 2004, he served as associate
director of the Austin-based Center for Public Policy Priorities,
where he launched the Texas Kids Count Initiative and guided the
organization's child advocacy work; and
WHEREAS, Dedicated to assisting low-income Texas families,
Mr. Bresette led statewide coalitions to advance shared
legislative priorities, and he testified before state house and
senate committees and administrative hearings; he has been much in
demand as a consultant, speaker, and trainer; and
WHEREAS, A Washington, D.C., native, Mr. Bresette earned a
bachelor's degree in fine arts in sculpture from the New York State
College of Ceramics at Alfred University; he went on to complete a
master's degree at The University of Texas at Austin LBJ School of
Public Affairs; his retirement will afford him more time to spend
with his treasured family and to pursue such interests as
carpentry, design, neon art and sculpture, cooking, barbecuing, and
gardening; and
WHEREAS, Patrick Bresette devoted his career to creating
positive social change and improving the lives of children and
families, and as he embarks on the next exciting chapter of his
life, he may indeed reflect with pride on his contributions; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate Patrick Bresette on his retirement
as executive director of Children's Defense Fund-Texas and extend
to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Bresette as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
Talarico
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 1730 was adopted by the House on May
12, 2023, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House