Board Members
Board Member Biographies
Tonja Black
Tonja Black is the definition of dedication, grace, and quiet strength. A proud resident of Tyler, Texas, she built an extraordinary legacy through her 38-year career with the United States Postal Service, where she served her community with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering consistency.
Over nearly four decades, Tonja became a trusted and familiar presence — someone who treated everyone with respect, brought calm to stressful situations, and embodied the values every organization strives to uphold. Her retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable chapter defined by loyalty, excellence, and service.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tonja is a beloved sister, friend, and community member. Her wisdom, kindness, and steady spirit make a lasting impact on everyone she encounters. She remains a powerful example of resilience, humility, and dedication.
Shawna Burrowes
Shawna Burrowes is a respected leader and Supervisor with the Texas Workforce Commission, where she has dedicated her career to empowering families, strengthening communities, and expanding pathways to opportunity. Known for her strategic leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to public service, Shawna plays a pivotal role in supporting workforce initiatives across Texas.
She is admired for her ability to lead teams with both authority and compassion — firm when necessary, empathetic when it matters most, and always focused on delivering excellence. Her work has positively impacted job seekers, students, employers, and community partners who rely on her guidance and integrity.
Shawna’s character reflects strength, grace, and purpose. Her dedication to serving others makes her an invaluable contributor to any initiative focused on economic mobility and community advancement.
Eric Lockhart
Eric Lockhart is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader whose professional experience spans real estate, construction, entertainment, and the beauty industry. A Dallas native and graduate of Skyline Career Center, he later earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and an MBA, laying the foundation for a diverse and successful career.
With more than 22 years of real estate experience, Eric serves as President and CEO of Covenant Homes Construction & Renovation, LLC. His entrepreneurial portfolio also includes ownership roles in Multi-City Entertainment, 3 Eaglenest Property Management, and salon ventures under the Lavish Lounge umbrella.
Eric is known for his business acumen, creativity, and commitment to building opportunities for others. His leadership and broad industry insight make him a dynamic and strategic asset in any organizational setting.
Myra McIntosh
Myra McIntosh is a seasoned attorney with over two decades of experience advocating for individuals in criminal, family, and civil matters. A graduate of Howard University and Georgetown University Law Center, she has built a respected career rooted in justice, service, and education.
She served more than 12 years as an Assistant District Attorney in both Tarrant and Dallas Counties before transitioning into academia as the Legal Studies Director and a full-time professor at Paul Quinn College. Through her teaching and mentorship, she helped shape the next generation of legal and civic leaders.
Myra is known for her sharp legal mind, compassionate advocacy, and unwavering commitment to fairness. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys traveling, playing chess, and collecting art — pursuits that reflect her curiosity, depth, and creativity.
Rod Franklin
For 17 years, Rod Franklin has served as the visionary founder and driving force behind Vision Truck Driving School, a premier CDL training institution committed to transforming lives, strengthening communities, and developing the next generation of professional drivers.
What began as a bold idea has grown into one of the most respected training programs in North Texas — a school built on discipline, opportunity, and second chances. Under Rod’s leadership, Vision Truck Driving School has guided countless students into sustainable careers, formed key partnerships with workforce agencies and employers, and become a trusted pathway to economic mobility.
Rod is known for his integrity, empathy, and relentless work ethic. His belief is simple yet powerful: changing someone’s career can change their entire future. His ongoing dedication ensures that Vision Truck Driving School continues to stand as a pillar of opportunity and upward mobility.