Meet TLRN’s Operational Team
Chris McGilvery, Ph.D.
Founder and Executive Director
Chris McGilvery is an educator, nonprofit founder, and an advocate for education and literacy for all kids. He has over 15 years of experience working with teachers, students and schools in K-12 settings and in Higher Education.
Chris is a dedicated advocate for equitable education and literacy, with a deep-rooted passion for ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. As the Founder and Executive Director of the Leaders Readers Network, Chris has been at the forefront of empowering communities through literacy programming, service projects, and educational initiatives.
Under his leadership, the Leaders Readers Network has grown from a grassroots initiative to a nationally recognized organization that partners with schools, educators, and community leaders to deliver impactful literacy programs. His innovative approach includes engaging young leaders in service projects that promote reading and providing teachers with the resources they need to create an active community of readers and leaders.
Chris and his work received the 2020 Freedom Through Literacy Grand Prize winner from Judith's Reading Room, and 2020 Honorable Mention from The Texas Center for the Book.
Amber Padilla
Senior Programs Specialists
Amber Padilla’s passion for education and literacy has been a driving force throughout her career. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master's in Guidance and Counseling from Angelo State University. With over six years of experience teaching in a Montessori setting within Houston ISD, Amber has cultivated a hands-on, student-centered approach to education that aligns with her deep belief in nurturing young minds.
Amber’s journey with The Leaders Readers Network began during her college years, where she first became involved by providing books to children in Fiji while studying abroad. This experience ignited her commitment to the organization's mission, leading her to take on various volunteer roles, including developing early programming and participating in the Literacy Fellowship while teaching in Houston, Texas.
Now, as a dedicated staff member, Amber plays a key role in supporting the expansion of the Literacy Fellowship and fostering community partnerships with organizations such as Amarillo National Bank and the Spurs. Through these efforts, she continues to work towards providing books to children in underserved schools and communities, ensuring that every child has access to the tools they need to succeed.
Amber is thrilled to be part of The Leaders Readers Network, where she can continue her journey of growth and learning, all while spreading the love of literacy and quality education to every corner of the community.
Dorelen Rasor
Events and Development Coordinator
Dorelen Rasor is a community leader, nonprofit advocate, and experienced professional with over 32 years of experience in subprime lending, business development, and community engagement. Throughout her career, she served as Vice President in the lending industry, helping underserved individuals and families establish credit and gain access to financial opportunities. This experience provided her with a firsthand understanding of the financial hardships and challenges faced by underprivileged families.
As the Director of Development and Event Planning for the Leaders Readers Network, Dorelen is passionate about building community partnerships, cultivating donor relationships, and creating fundraising opportunities that support childhood literacy and educational equity.
Having grown up in Monterrey, Mexico, Dorelen witnessed the challenges of poverty at an early age. Combined with her professional experience serving underserved communities in Amarillo, these experiences strengthened her belief that literacy and education are essential to breaking cycles of generational poverty and creating opportunities for future generations.
Dorelen has been actively involved in the Amarillo community, serving eight years with the Junior League of Amarillo in leadership roles, including Membership Vice President and Member Advisor. Her recent volunteer involvement also includes Amarillo Angels, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and serving as President of the Amarillo High School Theatre Booster Club.
Through her work with the Leaders Readers Network, Dorelen is committed to bringing businesses, individuals, and community leaders together to ensure every child has access to books, the confidence to become a successful reader, and the opportunity to dream beyond their circumstances.
TLRN’s Intern Team
Maddy Peters
Development Intern
Olivia Bell
Marketing Intern