Today, Harris County Precinct One Commissioner Rodney Ellis and the Board of Directors of Julia C. Hester House announced leadership changes at the historic Fifth Ward community center. For 78 years, Hester House has provided a variety of services to the Fifth Ward community, including youth development, senior services, social services and workforce development.

Daisy Stiner, Executive Director of Hester House since 2013, has announced her retirement, and her last day serving in this role will be July 30. Speaking about Ms. Stiner’s retirement, Commissioner Ellis remarked: “Ms. Stiner’s leadership of Hester House over the past few years has brightened the legacy of this already historic community center in Fifth Ward. Among her many accomplishments over the past eight years, she has introduced a new wellness facility, expanded the kitchen for nutrition programs, overseen the growth of the on-site garden, and has established collaboration with community partners for economic development, environmental, and health issues. While we are sad to see her go, we wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.”

In a ceremony at Hester House, Commissioner Ellis announced the renaming of the computer lab in Ms. Stiner’s honor to the Daisy Stiner Computer Lab. The computer lab serves youth in Fifth Ward who need to use computers and the internet.

As part of the changes to the leadership at Hester House, Dr. Marlon A. Smith, Director of Programs for Harris County Precinct One, will serve as interim Executive Director until a permanent director is named. A search for a permanent director will be undertaken immediately. Jeremy Brown, former Precinct 7, Place 1 Harris County Justice of the Peace, will become Chair of the Hester House Board of Directors. Of his new appointment, Brown said, “I am honored to serve as Chair of the Hester House Board of Directors. Hester House is a pillar of the Fifth Ward community, serving generations of families, including my own. I look forward to working with my fellow board members and staff as we continue that strong tradition of service to future generations."

Under the leadership of Brown, the Board will be engaged to assist in a range of activities to replace retiring board members; diversify, strengthen and raise funds for the programs offered through Hester House; and ensure strong continuous governance of the Center. Brown holds a bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma. A dedicated public servant, he currently serves as Senior Records Management Officer for Harris County.

The Board is looking forward to taking a more active role in supporting Hester House’s new and ongoing programs. This includes raising additional funds from a variety of sources, supporting management, and a robust strategic plan that engages policy makers, funders, and community leaders. This will ensure that Hester House continues to innovate as it brings essential services to Fifth Ward in the years to come.