Lufkin, Texas—The T.L.L. Temple Foundation Board of Trustees has named East Texas native John Calahan as interim president and CEO. A retired U.S. Army Infantry Officer and the foundation’s current director of operations and administration, Mr. Calahan brings over three decades of leadership experience, operational expertise, and a lifelong dedication to the region.
As interim president and CEO, Mr. Calahan will guide the foundation’s mission to alleviate poverty and expand opportunities in rural East Texas. His 21-year military career, coupled with roles in risk management and higher education, uniquely position him to lead during this transition.
To identify a transformative leader for the foundation’s future, the board has engaged ZRG Partners, a global talent advisory firm, to conduct a nationwide search for a visionary president and CEO. “We are committed to finding a leader who will honor our legacy while driving bold initiatives to advance our mission,” said W. Temple Webber, III, Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Since 1962, the T.L.L. Temple Foundation has been a pillar of rural East Texas, addressing challenges in health, education, economic opportunity, and quality of life. The board remains steadfast in its dedication to creating lasting impact in the communities it serves, with operations continuing at full pace during the leadership transition.
Mr. Calahan, a Nacogdoches native, has called East Texas home for more than 50 years. A graduate of Texas A&M University and King’s College, University of London, he has led community efforts, including serving as board chairman of CASA of Deep East Texas. His wife, Rebecca Welch Calahan, a Lufkin native with deep family ties to Diboll, further underscores their shared commitment to the region.
