Equitable Public Education For All

Laney Hawes serves as Policy and Advocacy Director for TPEDF, where she leads efforts to promote transparent governance, protect students' rights, and defend Texas public schools from harmful legislation. With a background in communications, media strategy, and public policy, Laney brings strategic insight and a compelling public voice to the organization’s advocacy work.

Laney holds a Master’s in Communications and Media Studies and a Bachelor’s in Political Science and Government from Brigham Young University. She is also the co-founder of the Texas Freedom to Read Project, a statewide initiative focused on protecting students’ access to diverse and inclusive books in public school libraries. Laney is the recipient of the 2025 Sam G. Whitten Intellectual Freedom Award from the Texas Library Association. 

As a mother of four children enrolled in public schools, Laney blends her professional expertise with lived experience. Her advocacy is grounded in a deep commitment to equitable, inclusive, and well-funded public education for all Texas students. Laney’s leadership plays a vital role in advancing TPEDF’s mission to defend democratic values and strengthen local school communities.