Colleen Mier

For over two decades, I have devoted my career to expanding access, equity, and opportunity for young people through education, mentorship, and community partnerships. As a mission-driven executive and former educator, I bring a blend of strategic leadership, relationship-building, and program innovation to every organization I serve. My purpose centers on helping individuals realize their potential and fostering collaboration across sectors to create lasting change.

As Executive Director of the Foundation for C.H.O.I.C.E., I lead a team dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through mentorship and education. Our programs serve more than 200 students annually across multiple campuses, connecting them with mentors, scholarship opportunities, and career pathways. Under my leadership, the foundation has grown its reach and sustainability—raising more than $4.8 million in scholarships, securing long-term corporate partnerships, and maintaining a 90 percent program participation rate. What drives me most is watching students transform when they gain confidence and see a future they once thought impossible.

Prior to my work in nonprofit leadership, I spent over 20 years in education—primarily in Title I schools—leading special education and gifted programs. Those experiences taught me that inclusive education is the foundation of strong communities. They also shaped my leadership approach: empathetic yet data-driven, focused on measurable outcomes while never losing sight of the people we serve. I’ve led initiatives that improved academic performance, built teacher leadership, and connected schools to community resources in meaningful, lasting ways.

Throughout my career, I’ve built cross-sector partnerships with corporations, civic organizations, and philanthropic foundations to expand opportunity. I’ve designed and implemented mentor training systems, volunteer engagement programs, and workforce-readiness initiatives that align community need with organizational mission. I am equally comfortable in classrooms, boardrooms, and community meetings—translating vision into action and ensuring every stakeholder sees the value of their contribution.

My leadership style is grounded in authenticity, collaboration, and accountability. I believe great teams are built on trust and clarity of purpose. I prioritize communication, celebrate progress, and challenge people to think boldly about what’s possible. Whether leading staff, mentoring volunteers, or collaborating with partners, I focus on building relationships that move the mission forward and strengthen the community as a whole.

Community engagement is at the heart of everything I do. As a member of Leadership Plano and active volunteer in multiple civic initiatives, I work alongside other leaders to address local challenges and promote meaningful connection. I thrive in environments that value innovation, inclusion, and measurable impact—where compassion meets strategy and ideas become outcomes.

In every role, my guiding principle is simple: build bridges that create opportunity. From mentoring students to developing partnerships that sustain programs, my work is about connecting people and purpose. I bring to every organization a commitment to excellence, a collaborative spirit, and a passion for ensuring that every person—regardless of background—has the support and resources to succeed.

Dynamic nonprofit executive and former educator with over 20 years of experience leading mission-driven programs that advance education, mentorship, and community engagement. Proven success in organizational leadership, fundraising, and partnership development, including managing multi-campus initiatives and securing over $4.8 million in scholarships for underserved students. Skilled in strategic planning, board relations, and cross-sector collaboration with corporate, civic, and educational partners. Recognized for fostering inclusive cultures, building high-performing teams, and designing programs that produce measurable academic and workforce outcomes. Dedicated to creating pathways of opportunity, empowerment, and long-term impact for youth and communities across North Texas.

University of Dallas – Irving, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Education
Focused on instructional design, curriculum development, and leadership in diverse educational settings.

University of Texas at Arlington – Arlington, TX
Master of Education in Instruction and Curriculum
Emphasis on innovative teaching strategies, program development, and student success in Title I schools.

Leadership Plano, Class 41 – Plano Chamber of Commerce
Selected for a prestigious civic leadership program designed to build community engagement, strengthen public-private partnerships, and develop leaders committed to service and impact across North Texas.