The Fort Bend Education Foundation announced Hillary Dunn as its new executive director in a May 29 press release.

Dunn steps into the role following the retirement of longtime Executive Director Brenna Cosby, who served the foundation for 25 years, during which the organization received “state and national recognition,” FBEF board member Dennis Halford said at the May 6 Sugar Land City Council meeting.

The details

A familiar face within the nonprofit organization, Dunn has spent more than eight years with the foundation, progressing from marketing coordinator to events director and most recently development director, according to release. The foundation—founded in 1992—is dedicated to enriching and enhancing the quality of education for all FBISD students through its grants and support programs.

Per the release, Dunn played a key role in overseeing the foundation’s major annual fundraising events and expanding its impact across Fort Bend ISD.


“As an FBISD alum and proud parent of a current student, I’ve seen firsthand the meaningful impact the Foundation has on our students, teachers, and the district,” Dunn said. “I am excited to carry forward the mission and build upon the legacy that Brenna Cosby established.”

Looking back

Under Cosby’s leadership, the foundation awarded over $35 million in grants, supporting more than 4,500 programs across Fort Bend ISD, Halford said at the May 6 meeting.

Known for her “tireless advocacy” for students and educators, Halford said Cosby modernized grant processes, led innovative fundraising efforts and built strong partnerships with corporations and community members. He said Cosby has helped make Sugar Land a “destination city” for families and businesses alike.


“You can't run an organization like this without volunteers,” Cosby said at the May 6 meeting. “I have been honored and blessed to serve with not only adult volunteers but student volunteers throughout [FBISD] during my tenure and a fabulous staff and the most multicultural group of people in the world.”

Looking ahead

Moving forward, the foundation board of directors said they believe Dunn’s experience, dedication and deep roots in the community will help guide the organization into a new chapter of growth and support for education in Fort Bend, according to the release.