Rick Byrd

Executive Director

Rick Byrd started his career with the YMCA of Greater Houston as a Program Director at the Post Oak YMCA. Since then, he has held a variety of positions, within the organization, including Executive Director of the Weekley Family YMCA, District Executive Director and most recently as the Vice President for Development/Executive Director of the YMCA of Greater Houston Endowment Foundation. During his tenure, Rick has been recognized for his fundraising achievements as well as leadership capabilities. Rick also has a proven track-record of organizational revenue growth, board and volunteer development, strategic planning and positive community relations.

Rick currently serves as Treasurer for the Houston Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and is the President and founding member of the Wilchester Neighborhood Men’s Club, a 501 (c) 3, non-profit, with a mission to give back to the community and those in need. Rick is married to Susan and they have two children, Alexander and Elizabeth. They both are actively involved in their community and local schools. Rick also enjoys coaching his children in various sports throughout the year.

Michelle Miller

Market Director, Austin

With over 15 years of nonprofit experience in the Austin area, Michelle brings a deep understanding of fundraising strategies, a strong track record of demonstrated health-based nonprofit management, and local philanthropic knowledge.

Michelle will lead our Austin team and partner with the local Community Board in overseeing fundraising events, donor and corporate relations, community outreach and advocacy, and volunteer development.  When asked about joining JDRF, Michelle said, “It is an honor to join this internationally-recognized organization with a legacy of accomplishment and service to people living with T1D.  I am eager to begin working alongside the passionate team of professionals to further advance JDRFs research, advocacy and education initiatives.”

Michelle lives in Austin with her husband, Barry.  They recently adopted two children and look forward to building a beautiful family and creating many memories together.

Deandrea Dillard

Associate Executive Director

Corporate Development

Deon Dillard is a native Houstonian and proud graduate of Sam Houston State University. She spent over 12 years as a Pharmaceutical Representative before making the transition to non-profit. Deon has worked in non-profit for five years and has a very successful track record in managing galas, walks, luncheons, and community service projects. She really enjoys working with people and making a difference in the community. She will celebrate 18 years of marriage in 2017 and is the proud mother of two teenagers.

Jennifer Sotuyo

Development Director

JDRF Promise Ball, Young Leadership Committee (YLC)

Jennifer Sotuyo has been fundraising, for both political and charitable organizations, and planning events for over 18 years. She started her professional fundraising career with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C. During her time at the Chamber, Jennifer was quickly recognized for her success in helping secure memberships from Fortune 500 companies. In 2005 Jennifer started working with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) where she spent the next 12 years raising money for families affected by a neuromuscular disease. During her time there she served in various roles managing, planning events, attending summer camp, working with families, and most of all raising money for the largest MDA chapter in the country. Her background is mostly in distinguished events such as galas and golf tournaments.

Jennifer is a graduate of Texas A&M University. She moved to Houston in 2009 from her hometown of San Antonio, Texas where she resides with her husband and pets. Jennifer is passionate about helping people and looks forward to meeting families and supporters of JDRF and finding a cure for Type 1.

Sarah Mason-Fagg

Development Manager

Development Manager leading the JDRF One Walk Program for the Austin & South Central Texas markets of the Southern Texas Chapter. She grew up in San Antonio and over the last 20 years has worked in hospitality, non-profit, and sales. Sarah lives in San Antonio with her husband, Kevin. They have two daughters, Hannah (18) who will be attending Texas A&M Corpus Christi in the fall, and Charlotte (5) who is obsessed with dinosaurs and will start Kindergarten in the fall. “I am looking forward to working with this incredible team and our community to create a world without type one!”

Tamara Luera

Development Manager

Tamara, a native Houstonian with a degree from St. Edward’s University, is excited to return to JDRF as Development Manager leading the JDRF One Walk program in the Houston area. Over the last 10 years, she has found great success in nonprofit work with her ability to build authentic relationships and passion for helping others. Tamara has a genuine desire to help elevate local organizations reach their goals. Tamara loves all things Houston sports and is going into her third year as a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Committeeman!