Governor Greg Abbott appointed Leslie Cantu, Marla Williams, Elizabeth “Elle” Holtzman, and Jeanie Beaman and reappointed Peggy Schmidt to the Rehabilitation Council of Texas for terms expiring on October 29, 2028, according to a Mar. 25 announcement. The council works with the Texas Workforce Commission to support people with disabilities in the vocational rehabilitation process.
The appointments are significant as they help guide state efforts in improving access and advocacy for Texans with disabilities seeking employment or vocational training. The council’s collaboration with the workforce commission aims to ensure that programs address the needs of this community.
Leslie Cantu is vice president at Toyotetsu Texas, Inc., and holds leadership roles in several education and workforce organizations. Marla Williams is founder of Strategic Employment Solutions LLC and has experience as an employment specialist under contract with the state through the workforce commission. Elizabeth “Elle” Holtzman works at Stormie’s SnoCones and T-Shirts and serves on a self-advocacy leadership team affiliated with The Arc of Greater Beaumont. Jeanie Beaman is a senior staff advocate for Disability Rights Texas with more than three decades as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Peggy Schmidt serves as Associate Director at University of North Texas’ Workplace Inclusion program.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to statewide job growth and record employment levels. The governor’s office maintains its main offices in Austin at the State Insurance Building according to official sources. TIME included Greg Abbott among its list of 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to official sources.
The governor’s administration has focused on job creation, economic opportunities, education improvement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schools, and southern border security according to official sources. Abbott has led his office since being elected in 2014 according to official sources, providing services across all regions of Texas.
