News Release
For More information:
Amelia Folkes, PEF Marketing Committee, Vice President
Amelia.Folkes@thepfoundation.org
Pfoundation Poised for Next Chapter of Impact and Growth
PFLUGERVILLE, Texas (October 21, 2025) – The Pflugerville Education Foundation (PEF) has announced the appointment of Karl I. Spencer, a seasoned nonprofit and education leader, as its new executive director, following the approval by the Pflugerville ISD (PfISD) School Board. Spencer will officially step into the role on November 4, 2025.
The selection of Spencer concludes an extensive search to find a leader who can build upon the Foundation's momentum, which recently included achieving larger board recruitment, establishing the Bloom Women’s Luncheon, and raising over $1 million for PfISD students and educators.
“We are excited to welcome Spencer to the Pfoundation. His enthusiasm for our mission, equitability in education, and our community will inspire our educators, donors, and partners,” said Staci Young, Pflugerville Education Foundation board president. “We are lucky to have his expertise that combines educational institutions and philanthropic work. I cannot wait to witness the success he will bring to PEF as he ushers us into the next chapter.”
Spencer brings more than 20 years of experience driving organizational growth, equity, and community impact. Most recently, he served as the assistant director of outreach and scholarships at the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business, where he managed over 600 internal scholarship programs. His work there focused on leading outreach strategies to expand opportunities for underrepresented students.
A dedicated advocate for community service, Spencer is also the vice president of membership for 100 Black Men of Austin, where he previously served as president for seven years. Under his leadership, the organization's operating budget saw a tenfold growth through grants, sponsorships, and fundraising. He also spearheaded the Saturday Leadership Academy and Cultural Competency Initiative..
The Board of Directors extends its gratitude to the community for its continued support and to the PfISD staff and School Board for its partnership throughout the transition and search process. The Pfoundation remains steadfast in its mission to develop, implement, and sustain new strategies and initiatives that enhance instruction and educational opportunities for PfISD.
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About Karl I. Spencer
Karl I. Spencer is known for his strategic vision and collaborative leadership in the nonprofit and higher education sectors. His career includes extensive experience in financial operations, event management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership at institutions like Northwestern University. He is a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa. He is a former board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Community in Schools Central Texas, and First Tee Golf.
About Pflugerville Education Foundation
The Pflugerville Education Foundation (PEF) is a non-profit organization established in 2006. It operates independently of PfISD but shares the District’s vision for quality education. PEF relies on contributions from community leaders, businesses, parents, and grants to support the students, staff, and community of Pflugerville ISD. Funds raised are used to enhance instruction, educational opportunities, and recognize exemplary students and educators. For more information, visit https://thepfoundation.org.
