Meet the Board - Ferris Independent School District

Richard Sasser joined the Ferris ISD Board of Trustees in 2019. He is a proud husband, father of 3, and grandfather to 1 amazing grandson. Mr. Sasser has raised his family in the Ferris community, where all 3 of his children have graduated Ferris ISD. He is passionate about supporting students, teachers, and the community. Professionally, Mr. Sasser works as a logistics manager and focuses on organization, teamwork, and problem-solving — skills he also brings to his role on the School Board. Ferris ISD holds a special place in Mr. Sasser's heart and he is committed to helping the district continue to grow and thrive.

Nancy Salmon joined the Ferris ISD Board of Trustees in 2018. A former teacher, Mrs. Salmon taught for 3 years in Andrews, Texas and 36 years in Dallas ISD. She has served as both trustee and Vice President of the Ferris ISD School Board. In her spare time, she enjoys reading adventure novels, working on needlepoint projects, and serving as a mentor at Ferris High School.

Hershana Rouwtt is a dedicated public servant with over 13 years of experience in public service and a lifelong commitment to the Ferris community. A proud graduate of Ferris Independent School District, Hershana has lived in Ferris her entire life and raised her children in the same school system, where they attended from kindergarten through graduation.

For more than seven years, Hershana has volunteered with the Ferris Youth Sports Association, supporting programs that build teamwork, confidence, and leadership among local youth. Her deep roots in the community have given her a strong understanding of the needs of local families and schools, as well as a genuine desire to see every student thrive.

Raised with a belief in hard work, integrity, and service to others, Hershana takes great pride in fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all students. She remains steadfast in her commitment to education, community service, and student success, continually working to empower young people to reach their fullest potential.

Dr. Fred Fuentes is a higher education leader, U.S. Army veteran, author, podcaster and nationally recognized speaker dedicated to expanding educational opportunity and empowering communities. Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, Dr. Fuentes has spent more than two decades leading initiatives that support student success, mentorship, and leadership development, particularly for first-generation and underserved populations. A bilingual educator, he is known for building meaningful partnerships and inspiring audiences through authentic storytelling and practical leadership strategies. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to service, resilience, and creating pathways for others to achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals. He is an education consultant (Los Higher Ed Homies) concentrating on K-12 expansion of services for traditionally underserved students and students in Alternative Education Programs.

Nick Hamm joined the Ferris ISD Board of Trustees in 2016. A native Ferris resident and Class of 1973 alum, Mr. Hamm met his wife in the 5th grade. Together they have 2 boys, 1 grandson, and 2 granddaughters. They have been married for 52 years and live on his grandparents farm. Mr. Hamm retired from the U.S. Postal Service here in Ferris after 24 years.

Billinda Longino is a proud, lifelong Ferris Yellowjacket. She graduated Ferris ISD in 1977 where she had the privilege of being a student under Miss Hazel Ingram, Mrs. Lucy Mae McDonald, and Mr. James Harrison; she also attended Ferris ISD while Mr. MS Hammack guided the Agriculture program and Mr. Fann Hamm secured transportation. Mrs. Longino was married to Mr. Lee Longino for 48 years. Alongside her husband, she serviced the Ferris community with Green Funeral Home and A Bundle of Love florist shop. Mrs. Longino is a mother to 2 sons and 2 daughters; and is best known as Nonnie to 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Jeff Stanley is married to the love of his life Diana. Their family consists of 13 children, with the last two attending Ferris ISD. Mr. Stanley is the pastor of The Mix Church and he and his wife love the community. He is honored to be a part of the Ferris ISD School Board and promises to serve the school district to the best of his ability. His desire is to create a sense of community where the teachers, families, and students are proud to be yellowjackets.