About Us
SETX Impact Initiative is a grassroots organization dedicated to fostering positive change in Southeast Texas through civic engagement and community action.
Our mission is to empower residents to actively participate in shaping the future of our region. We believe that informed, engaged citizens are the cornerstone of a thriving democracy.
Through education, advocacy, and collective action, we work to:
- Promote progressive values and policies
- Encourage civic participation and voter engagement
- Foster meaningful dialogue on important local issues
- Support initiatives that benefit our Southeast Texas communities
- Build connections between residents and their elected representatives
Join us in our efforts to create positive change and build a stronger, more inclusive Southeast Texas for all residents.
About the Founders
Adriana (co-director)
Adriana is the proud descendant of Korean Immigrants, who arrived on boats to the west coast of the United States, in 1904. Her Korean mother raised her to be modest, hard-working and kind above all else. Her father is a retired Union worker, who grew up as an eyewitness of the fight for civil rights in the deep South during the 1950’s and 1960’s. Adriana is passionate about fighting racism, counting anti-racism as the cornerstone to any progressive action. She is also curious about the world around her, and active in nature and environmental pursuits. Adriana has two adult children who live in Southeast Texas, a teenager at home with her, and two grandchildren that she adores.
Jennifer (co-director)
Jennifer Clarke is a Southeast Texas native. Her family is rooted in the Cajun culture and she grew up enjoying the landscape and waterways of the Golden Triangle. Her family is mostly employed by the petrochemical industry in our community. Her experience in this regard has taught her to appreciate the precarious balance between industry and the environment. She graduated with honors from Lamar University and went on to work in education as an English, Theater, Speech, and Debate teacher. Jennifer has also worked as a paralegal in our community for nearly twenty years. She has published critical essays and a novel focused on the social issues of the modern era, but her most brag worthy accomplishments are her two children, Aidan and Ryleigh, of whom she never stops being proud. Being a part of Southeast Texas Impact Initiative has been a humbling and fulfilling experience, and is a constant reminder of the goodness of people and their willingness to put their skills, talents, and passion to use to improve all of our lives.