Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation Announces Appointment of Michael Zamora to Board of Directors

The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation (BBHLF) proudly announces the appointment of Michael Zamora, President of ExxonMobil Technology & Engineering Company, to its Board of Directors. Zamora is a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of experience in the energy sector and currently leads ExxonMobil’s Technology and Engineering Company, where he oversees the organization’s global operations, drives innovation, and advances sustainable practices across the company’s evolving energy portfolio.

The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation was founded to carry forward the legacy of former First Lady Barbara Bush, who believed deeply that literacy is the foundation for opportunity, empowerment, and the American Dream. Through innovative programs and partnerships across Greater Houston, the Foundation works to improve literacy outcomes for children, families, and adults.

“Michael’s leadership, insight, and passion for community impact will be a tremendous asset to our Board,” said Neil Bush, Chair of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation. “We are grateful for his willingness to serve and help advance my mother’s vision of literacy for all. Michael brings a deep understanding of the importance of education and strong connections to the greater Houston community. We are confident that his contributions will strengthen our efforts to expand access to literacy resources and opportunity for families across our region.”

Zamora joins the Board at a time of significant growth for the Foundation, which continues to expand its portfolio of literacy initiatives in partnership with school districts, libraries, higher education institutions, and community organizations. These programs focus on empowering teachers, supporting families as first teachers, and ensuring that children and adults alike have the skills needed to succeed.

“I am deeply honored to join the Board of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation,” said Michael Zamora, President of ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company. “Barbara Bush’s lifelong commitment to literacy has inspired generations, and I am proud to help carry forward her vision. The Foundation’s work is transforming lives across Houston, and I look forward to contributing my time and energy to support this important mission.”

Michael will serve alongside the distinguished members of Foundation Board of Directors: Neil Bush, Chair; Greg Garland, Vice Chair; Juliet Stipeche, Secretary; Pam Wells, Ed.D., Treasurer; Pierce Bush; Martha Carnes; David Jones; Mark Lashier; Steve Maislin; Ruth J. Simmons, Ph.D.; and Y. Ping Sun.

The Foundation also recognizes and appreciates its partnership with ExxonMobil, whose generosity and commitment to education have supported key literacy initiatives in the community, including STEM in Stories, a new initiative which will launch in 2026. STEM in Stories will empower second- and third-grade teachers with books, lesson guides and other supplemental curricular resources aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) themes and academic content standards in the areas of science, math and reading to advance learning and expose children to STEM career fields in a fun and meaningful way.

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