Meet the Board of Directors

Julie Renken
Julie Renken is the recently retired District Attorney She received a BA in Political Science from Texas A&M and graduated with honors from Texas Tech School of Law. She has served on numerous boards, whether as the vice chair for Faith Mission or a founding member of the Washington County Victim’s Task Force. Mrs. Renken attends Champion Fellowship and volunteers with the youth.
​
“The future of the youth in America is vulnerable and Brenham NEXT is focused on fixing that problem locally. However, my favorite part of its focus is that is comes from a place of truth using Biblical Principles to give our local youth a future and strengthen the future of Brenham.”

Michele Kohring Kwiatkowski
Michele Kohring Kwiatkowski is a Brenham native and a CPA and partner at Seidel Schroeder. Michele is a 1989 summa cum laude graduate of Texas A & M University with a BBA in accounting. Michele has served on the BISD Education Foundation and several other boards dedicated to the youth of our community. Michele also serves on the finance council of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Brenham.
​
“God has a plan for everyone. Our youth need to know Him and trust his plan in their lives. Brenham Next helps them learn to know and trust in Him.”

Brittney Oquinn
Brittney Oquinn is a Brenham native and has been working in the field of education since 2007. She received a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M and graduated with a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction and MED in Mathematics Education from the University of Houston. Currently, Mrs. Oquinn is a math professor at Blinn College in Brenham. She supports youth by serving on various committees for the Washington County Fair. She also serves as the Sunday School Superintendent at Salem Lutheran Church.
“Words cannot express the numerous ways Brenham Next affects the youth and young adults of this community. This ministry instills so many Godly values, Christian leadership skills, community service, and biblical education.”

Chris Kimsey
Chris Kimsey, a local Brenham resident brings 15 years of experience in multiple construction fields. With strong skills in project management, problem-solving, and leadership. He actively serves with his family at Redeemer Church. Chris has a desire to mentor and develop leaders within the community.
​
"Society has put such low expectations on today's youth. However I believe this generation truly has a desire to take on more responsibility and do great things. I believe brenham Next has the tools to help equip and train up young leaders."

Clay Gillentine
Clay Gillentine, Brenham ISD's newly appointed Superintendent, brings a deep-rooted commitment to education and community values that resonate with the heart of Brenham. Clay's vision for Brenham ISD is centered on the belief that strong, moral leadership is crucial to the success of any community—much like the backbone of a thriving small business.
​
"I'm in the kid business. Kids come first. We are Brenham."

Trina Crenshaw
A proud resident of Washington County, Trina K. Crenshaw brings many years of experience in service management and human relations. Guided by her strong Christian values and a generous heart, she has dedicated herself to uplifting others in the community.
​
"All children are special and have the potential to thrive when nurtured with care and support. Because children are the heart of our future, I am committed to doing my part—showing them they are cherished gems and helping instill the core values they need to succeed.
One of my favorite quotes by Frederick Douglass says it best: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”
I stand up for our children—and I stand with them."