Staff

Brenda Dees has served as Executive Director of Scenic Texas since May 2022, bringing more than 25 years of distinguished leadership in nonprofit administration, organizational management, and mission-driven growth. Throughout her career, she has specialized in building and strengthening organizations dedicated to community enhancement, scenic conservation, and social service initiatives that support long-term sustainability and quality of life.

A seasoned executive, Brenda has successfully led multiple Texas-based nonprofits, guiding them from early development to operational maturity. Her expertise encompasses strategic planning, program development, fund development, board governance, fiscal oversight, public policy, and organizational infrastructure. She is widely recognized for her ability to translate vision into action—building high-performing programs, establishing strong operational foundations, and securing diverse funding streams that ensure measurable impact and long-term organizational stability.

Her leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to conservation and the preservation of Texas’ natural and scenic resources. Brenda has cultivated strong partnerships with municipalities, state agencies, foundations, and private-sector stakeholders to advance policies and practices that protect and enhance the visual character of Texas communities. She is known for fostering a culture of philanthropy and collaboration that drives both innovation and accountability.

Since joining Scenic Texas, Brenda has strengthened the organization’s financial position while significantly expanding its statewide reach and programmatic impact. Under her direction, the Scenic City Certification Program has grown in scope and visibility, with the introduction of initiatives such as Scenic City of the Year, the People’s Choice Award, the Scenic City Leadership Network, and the Scenic City Showcase. She has also implemented a sustainable membership model designed to support long-term growth and engagement.

Through her leadership, Scenic Texas has advanced large-scale conservation and beautification efforts across the state. In just three and a half years, these initiatives have resulted in the planting of over 100,000 trees across Texas and the securing of more than $1.5 million in in-kind tree donations—a significant investment in environmental stewardship, urban forestry, and the long-term scenic vitality of Texas communities.

Brenda has further expanded the organization’s outreach through strategic communications, conservation-focused media initiatives, and innovative programs such as the annual For the Love of Texas Scenic Bike Ride. She also established a successful internship partnership with Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, helping to cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders.

A proud native of Texas, raised in Freer, Brenda holds a Master of Science degree from Corpus Christi State University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&I University–Kingsville. Her career reflects a lifelong dedication to preserving the scenic integrity of Texas while strengthening the communities that call it home.

Brenda remains committed to advancing the mission of Scenic Texas by engaging partners, empowering communities, and championing the preservation of the state’s scenic landscapes for generations to come.