Robert Kent, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Communities Foundation of Texas

As chief philanthropy officer, Robert leads a team of grantmaking experts to leverage CFT’s philanthropic resources for positive impact
across Texas. Through grantmaking, community engagement, philanthropic advising, and learning and insights, CFT’s philanthropy
team helps advance the organization’s vision for creating thriving communities for all. Robert provides strategic vision to align philanthropic resources with CFT’s mission, leading to responsive
outcomes that positively impact the community.

Prior to joining CFT, Robert served as Associate Vice President and Texas State Director for the Trust for Public Land, a national nonprofit that works to make parks and nature accessible to all. He led the organization’s work to acquire over 400 acres of land for new parks in Dallas, help pass two bond packages providing over $655 million for parks and trails, and helped community members, stakeholders, and donors to realize a shared vision for parks and public spaces that benefit all. Before working for TPL, Robert was the policy director for the North Texas Commission.

Robert holds a bachelor’s from Baylor University where he studied economics and environmental science, and a master’s in international economic development from the University of Glasgow.

Katie H. Robbins, President & CEO, Hoblitzelle Foundation

Katie was named President & CEO of Hoblitzelle Foundation in January 2018, continuing a treasured, multi-generational connection with the Foundation. Her grandfather, Lynn Harris, worked alongside Mr. Hoblitzelle for decades, and her father, Paul W. Harris, served the Foundation from 1986 until his retirement in 2017. Katie joined the Foundation staff in 2016 and now leads its efforts to preserve donor intent and carry forward the legacy of giving established by Karl Hoblitzelle.

A relationship-driven leader and strategic thinker, Katie values the collaborative spirit of the region’s nonprofit sector and seeks investments that uplift Dallas and its residents, address critical community needs, and strengthen the city’s civic assets. In her role, Katie oversees the Foundation’s grantmaking, finances, and investments and engages directly with nonprofit partners.  She fosters active connections across the Dallas/Fort Worth philanthropic landscape and the broader Texas nonprofit community.  

Before joining Hoblitzelle Foundation, Katie spent more than 20 years in nonprofit finance and administration. She began her career in public accounting, later serving in leadership roles at the American Heart Association’s national headquarters and
as an administrator at Greenhill School.

Katie remains deeply engaged in the community, contributing her financial expertise and governance experience through board service. She is currently a trustee of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, Communities Foundation of Texas, Florence Foundation, Methodist Health System Foundation, Philanthropy Southwest, and Southwestern Medical Foundation. Her previous board involvement includes leadership with Parkland Health, where she served as chair, and the Junior League of Dallas.  Katie is also a member of Charter 100 and Dallas Assembly.

A Dallas native, Katie earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business Administration from SMU. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active and spending time with her two sons, one of whom attends the University of Arkansas and the other a local high school.

Tauane Araújo, Director, Community Health Improvement (Dallas and Kaufman Counties), Texas Health Resources

As Director of Community Health Improvement for Dallas and Kaufman Counties at Texas Health Resources, Tauane Araújo Cruz designs strategic efforts for the region, including overseeing grantmaking activities and staff. She has 17 years of experience in program management and has worked with national and international nonprofits to improve health services for underserved communities.