Board Members

FOUNDER
LINDA LORELLE

Linda Lorelle – Founder

A two-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and two-time winner of the American Women in Radio and Television’s prestigious Gracie Award, Linda Lorelle anchored the evening news at KPRC-TV, Houston’s NBC affiliate, for nearly 17 years.

Since opening Linda Lorelle Media in 2009, the Stanford (B.A.) and University of Missouri journalism graduate (M.A.) has garnered an extensive roster of Fortune 500 clients, NGOs, and educational institutions that call upon her expertise as a keynote speaker, panel moderator, emcee, multimedia content producer, and community convener.

In 2018, Linda expanded upon her journalism roots and launched the award-winning podcast, Our Voices Matter, dedicated to reminding us of our common humanity. Her podcast conversations align with much of her community work to bridge our divides, including that as co-founder of Civil Dialogues, a democracy initiative launched in early 2024 with Jean Becker, former chief of staff to President George H.W. Bush. The democracy project partners with presidential library foundations and the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy to host town halls across the nation, providing a safe space for Americans to express views on difficult topics without judgment.

Linda’s non-profit, Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund, has awarded nearly $5 million in college scholarships to more than 400 Houston area students over the last 35 years

Chief Executive Officer
Crystal HAdnott

Crystal Hadnott

Crystal Hadnott – Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Crystal Hadnott is a proud former scholar of the Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund whose life and career exemplify the transformative power of educational opportunity. As a former scholarship recipient, she understands firsthand how access to higher education can change the trajectory of a student’s life. Today, she serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund, leading the organization’s strategy, fundraising, operations, and long-term sustainability while working to expand educational access for future generations of scholars.

With more than 25 years of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and organizational strategy, Crystal has helped mission-driven organizations secure and influence nearly $1 billion in philanthropic and social impact investments worldwide. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply committed to advancing educational equity, economic opportunity, and community impact through strategic partnerships and sustainable fundraising. 

Beyond her professional work, Crystal is an accomplished endurance athlete, having completed more than 150 marathons and ultramarathons and summited Mount Kilimanjaro. She is also the author of multiple books and a nationally recognized speaker on leadership, philanthropy, fundraising, and sustainable performance. 

For Crystal, serving the Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund represents a full-circle moment. She is honored to help steward the organization that once invested in her future and is passionate about ensuring that today’s scholars receive not only financial support but also the mentorship, opportunities, and community they need to thrive in college, their careers, and beyond.

Advisory Council

Lou Gregory

Richard Hendee

BOARD MEMBERS

DENISE MIDDLETON
BOARD CHAIR

Denise Middleton is an anchor and reporter at FOX26 News, where she leads viewers through the day’s top stories and breaking news. With 18 years in journalism, she is passionate about storytelling that informs, inspires, and makes a meaningful impact.

In 2023, Denise was honored as Communicator of the Year by the Texas Speech Communication Association, recognizing her leadership and influence both on and off the air. A proud Houston native, she graduated from James Madison High School and earned her degree from the University of Houston. As a former LLSF scholarship recipient, Denise is dedicated to paying it forward and currently serves as president of the board, helping expand opportunities for students pursuing higher education. Her work reflects a strong commitment to community, education, and empowering the next generation of leaders.

LINDSEY GREGORY
BOARD MEMBER

Lindsey Gregory is the daughter of Lou and Linda Gregory and board member of the Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund. She is born and raised in Houston and graduated from Texas Christian University with a BA in Entrepreneurship. She currently lives in Colorado where she works as a Photographer. She enjoys traveling and reading, as well as spending time with friends, family, and her dog Layla. Lindsey has spent the last 20 years helping and attending LLSF events alongside her parents. She is so excited to be part of the legacy and continue helping students in the Houston community. 

Musse Hersi
Board Member

Musse Hersi is a dedicated technology professional and community-minded leader with a strong foundation in technology, education, and service. A graduate of the University of Houston, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems, Musse has consistently demonstrated a commitment to personal growth, academic excellence, and giving back to others. In 2015, he was honored as a Linda Lorelle Scholarship recipient, an achievement that reflects both his potential and dedication to making a meaningful impact in his community.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Musse is passionate about mentorship, advocacy, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. He values collaboration, lifelong learning, and using his skills to uplift and support those around him. His journey is shaped by perseverance, curiosity, and a desire to bridge gaps—whether through education, technology, or community engagement.

Musse continues to stay involved in initiatives that empower students and young professionals, and he takes pride in representing the values and mission of the Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund.

Eric Pena
Board Member

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