Mr. Alton Frailey

Mr. Alton Frailey is a distinguished educator and transformative leader who has profoundly impacted millions of students throughout his illustrious three-decade career in education. He has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape as superintendent, principal, teacher, and school board member. 

A past president of the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), Mr. Frailey is renowned for his national education leadership. He has served as superintendent for three prominent districts, excelling in turnaround efforts, community relations, and advancing teacher and student development.  

During Mr. Frailey’s tenure as the superintendent of Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD), overseeing 60 campuses, more than 70,000 students, and 8,500 employees, Katy ISD achieved recognition as the top-ranked school district in the Houston area and the 13th best in Texas by Niche. 

Originally from Nacogdoches, Texas, Mr. Frailey's commitment to his hometown is evident through his service as superintendent and his role on the Board of Regents for Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA), where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He continues contributing to education in Texas by aiding in superintendent searches and serving with the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Frailey is deeply involved in civic and community organizations, including the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce, Katy Area Economic Development Council, and Junior Achievement of Southeast Texas. He also serves on the board of directors for Battelle for Kids. 

Mr. Frailey's dedication to education and community extends to his personal life. He is a proud husband to Anissa and father to three children. 

As a board member of the CKH Foundation, Mr. Frailey's visionary leadership drives impactful strategies to foster positive school climates and expand educational opportunities, embodying his unwavering commitment to empowering students and educators.  

Dr. debbie emery

Dr. Debbie Emery is a dedicated career educator driven by her mission to enhance the educational journey for every student and teacher. She is a retired associate superintendent for Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District. As one of the most senior leaders for one of the largest districts in the country, she was responsible for the campus leaders at 90 schools with a population of over 100,000 students.  

Dr. Emery is regarded as a leader’s leader, offering dynamic coaching and mentorship to fellow leaders. Her impactful contributions led to the naming of a new campus, Dr. Debbie Emery Elementary School, in honor of her dedicated service.  

Dr. Emery’s commitment extends beyond her district. She has served as the University of Houston’s College of Education Alumni Board president and as an adjunct professor at Sam Houston State University. Currently, she chairs the CyFair Federal Credit Union and is actively involved in her local church as a lay leader.  

Even in her retirement, Dr. Emery's passion for education continues to burn bright. She actively mentors new principals and provides support to the Aspiring Principal’s Institute within Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, showcasing her unwavering dedication to educational leadership. With Capturing Kids’ Hearts®, she coaches campus and district leaders nationwide using data-driven insights from their leadership profiles.  

Dr. Emery holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston, a master’s from Sam Houston State University, and a doctorate in educational leadership and cultural studies, alongside superintendent certification from the University of Houston. As a board member of the CKH Foundation, she brings 40 years of education experience, leadership, and strategic insights to the foundation, guiding the outpouring of support to underserved and underfunded schools. 
 

General David Rodriguez, US Army, Retired

General David M. “Rod” Rodriguez is a distinguished leader with over 40 years of exemplary service in the United States Army, culminating in his role as a four-star general and Commander of the United States Africa Command. Born in Overbrook, Pennsylvania, in 1954, General Rodriguez earned his commission from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1976, where he excelled as a varsity football athlete. 

Throughout his military career, General Rodriguez held significant command roles, including Commanding General of the U.S. Army Forces Command, Commander of the International Security Assistance Force - Joint Command in Afghanistan, and Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division. He accumulated four years of combat experience at the two and three-star levels, demonstrating exceptional leadership. 

After retiring from the US Army, General Rodriguez continues to provide leadership training and advisory services to military, government, and business leaders. His ongoing engagement in supporting the military by training two and three-star leaders at the Army War College is a testament to his enduring dedication. 

Beyond his military service, General Rodriguez is dedicated to service through roles such as President of the Angel Wings for Veterans Board and advisory positions with Creative Associates International, and Leadworthy® Foundation. 

General Rodriguez holds a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College and a Master of Military Art and Science from the United States Army Command and General Staff College. 

He and his wife, Ginny, reside in Virginia, where they enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren. As part of the CKH Foundation, General Rodriguez champions initiatives that cultivate thriving educational ecosystems, embodying his commitment to fostering positive school environments and supporting educational opportunities.