AARP Texas Announces New State President

AARP Texas has named Charlene Hunter James, a long-time volunteer and community advocate in Houston, as state president, said a press release Monday.

The press release stated that James will have the responsibility, starting on Jan. 1, 2015, of leading the AARP Texas Executive Council for at least the next two years. She will be working in collaboration with AARP Texas Director Bob Jackson, who announced James’ appointment. James will also work with AARP staff and volunteers to establish strategic goals and objectives on a local level that are consistent with AARP’s national strategies.

James, 64, has been a volunteer and state executive council member for AARP since 2008, noted the release. Besides her work at AARP, she has served other organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The Links, Inc., and Texas Children’s Hospital. She has a master’s degree in public health from the University of Texas, and she worked for the Houston Health Department for much of her career. She also served as director of the local Area Agency on Aging.

Jackson said, “James brings a wealth of experience and skill that directly supports AARP’s mission. Charlene comes from a family with a tradition of service and activism. She has already fulfilled many roles that make her an ideal choice to be state president.”

James stated that community service runs in her blood.

“I grew up in a family in which we were taught a duty and responsibility to serve others, particularly those who are less fortunate,” the new president said. “I’m looking forward to working with the other Executive Council members, along with staff and other volunteers so that we can help AARP members realize their real possibilities.”