The EarthShare Texas board and staff are thrilled to welcome Barb Dunnam as the new Executive Director of EarthShare Texas. With more than three decades of nonprofit leadership and a lifelong passion for environmental advocacy, Barb brings a grounded, collaborative, and community-centered approach to our statewide mission.
At the heart of everything Barb does is a simple but powerful commitment: to leave the world better than she found it — for people, nature, and future generations. That ethos drives her work in environmental stewardship, equity, and systems-level change.
Barb rose to the top of a highly competitive pool of hundreds of applicants. Through a rigorous and thoughtful search process, it was clear she brings the vision, skills, and leadership needed to move our mission forward for our members, community, and the future of the organization.
About Barb
Barb’s journey began in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, where her grandmother helped spark a lifelong love for the natural world. That early connection grew into a career dedicated to uplifting communities, restoring ecosystems, and empowering individuals to take meaningful action. From leading youth-driven habitat restoration in Arkansas to securing nearly $1 million in grant funding for outdoor education in Central Texas, Barb’s impact is both tangible and transformative.
Her leadership is rooted in values that resonate deeply with the EarthShare Texas community:
- Equitable Access for All Barb believes everyone deserves a fair chance to experience nature, learn, grow, and thrive — regardless of background or circumstance.
- Hands-On Environmental Action She embraces practical, urgent work that makes a real difference, whether it’s restoring a spring or building sustainable programs. Explore how our member organizations are driving this impact statewide.
- Joy in Everyday Nature Barb celebrates the simple moments outdoors — fresh air, changing seasons, and the connections we form when we step outside. Learn how you can get involved and share your own nature story.
- Honesty & Collaboration She leads with transparency and authenticity, listening deeply and communicating clearly to build trust and shared purpose.
- Lifelong Learning & Cultural Respect Barb’s worldview is shaped by her German heritage, her upbringing as an Army Brat (self-proclaimed), and her experiences living in multiple countries. She honors diverse traditions and believes that every culture’s relationship with the land deserves celebration and preservation. Her values echo those of initiatives like Children in Nature Network and One Voice Central Texas, where she’s an active contributor.
The Future of EarthShare Texas
Barb’s vision for EarthShare Texas is rooted in connection, collaboration, and collective action, and sees the work the organization does as a catalyst — a place where nonprofits, donors, and communities come together to build a healthier, more resilient Texas for all who call it home.
“We’ll meet organizations where they are,” Barb says, “honoring their missions, learning from their expertise, and collaborating to amplify our shared strengths.”
Under her leadership, EarthShare Texas will continue to champion place-based solutions, grow the green economy, and support sustainable jobs — all while breaking down silos and building bridges across sectors.
Outside of worklife, Barb lives in Hays, Texas with her amazing kiddo, two mini pigs, and a lively crew of rescue cats. She’s known for her down-to-earth style, her humor, and her unwavering dedication to making environmental work accessible, joyful, and inclusive.
We’re honored to have Barb at the helm — and excited for what’s ahead.
Welcome, Barb. Let’s build something beautiful together.
