At the beginning of 2026, the Texas Society of Architects (TxA) celebrated two well-earned promotions that reflect both individual growth and the evolving needs of the organization. Sharna Pascolo, CAE, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer, and Becky Walker now serves as Senior Director of Government Affairs & Advocacy. Together, their leadership strengthens TxA’s operations, advocacy efforts, and long-term vision in service to members and the architectural profession across Texas.

Sharna Pascolo, CAE

Chief Operating Officer

I joined TxA in March 2016 as Administrative Manager, bringing experience in event and hospitality management, recruitment consulting, and operations from the first chapter of my career in Melbourne, Australia. While the role was based at the front desk, it placed me at the center of the organization, offering a clear view into member needs, board dynamics, and the systems that quietly sustain an association.

Eighteen months later, I moved into the role of Program Manager, where I became more deeply involved in program development, board relations, and member engagement. This work allowed me to earn the trust of volunteer leaders through a steady, solutions-oriented approach aligned with TxA’s strategic goals.

In 2023, I advanced to the Director of Governance and Operations role while also becoming a mother of two under two. That period reinforced my commitment to creating structure that supports bold ideas while maintaining accountability, transparency, and long-term organizational health. In 2024, I pursued my Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, earning the designation in June 2025 and further strengthening my expertise in nonprofit governance, financial stewardship, and strategic leadership.

January 1, 2026, I was promoted to Chief Operating Officer. This role formalizes the leadership I have developed over the past decade, expanding my responsibilities to strategic decision-making and staff leadership, while serving as a key advisor to the CEO and Board of Directors. I am proud to continue serving TxA in this capacity and supporting the profession through strong operations, thoughtful governance, and forward-focused leadership.

Becky Walker

Senior Director of Government Affairs & Advocacy

I’m excited to continue serving TxA as Senior Director of Government Affairs & Advocacy. This recent promotion is a title change that reflects my seniority in the role and the growth of our advocacy work.

My job is to make sure your voice is heard where it matters most. I work closely with our volunteer leaders, members, and allied partners to develop and advance our legislative priorities, monitor bills and regulatory issues, and represent the profession at the Capitol and before state agencies. Whether it’s coordinating Architects Day, supporting the Texas Society of Architects Committee (TAC), or working with our Government Affairs Steering Committee and School Safety Subcommittee. My focus over the last seven years at TxA is on promoting the practice of architecture through public understanding at the Texas Capitol and strengthening our influence across the state.

Before joining TxA, I served as Legislative Director and Communications Director for a Texas State Senator from 2012–2018. I also worked at the Texas Secretary of State, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and the Texas Railroad Commission. Those experiences gave me a strong foundation in the legislative and regulatory process and continue to inform how I advocate for our members today.

Strong advocacy is more important than ever, and I’m honored to work on your behalf to advance policies that support good design, resilient communities, and a healthy business climate for architects.