The Texas Freedom Network (TFN) Education Fund is a left-of-center think tank and nonprofit organization that opposes religious conservatives on issues such as sex education, legal abortion, and Bible study in public schools. [1] TFN has an affiliated 501(c)(4) lobbying arm, the Texas Freedom Network. [2]
Funding
The Texas Freedom Network Education Fund raises money to support the Texas Freedom Network and is funded by donations from individuals, foundations, and corporations. While the TFN Education Fund does not disclose its donors, tax filings confirm donations from the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation ($621,693 in 2020), [3] the Proteus Fund ($75,000 in 2015), [4] and the New Venture Fund ($30,000 in 2019). [5]
Board of Directors
The Texas Freedom Network Education Fund board has substantial overlap with the board of directors of the Texas Freedom Network. Among others, it includes Cary Clack, an editorial writer for the San Antonio Express-News; [6] state legislative staffers Stephanie Chiarello and Odus Evbagharu; [7] [8] and Jenn Longoria, director of programs at Jolt Action, a member of the advisory board of Battleground Texas, and a guest presenter at the New Leaders Council. [9] [10]
Diane Ireson chairs the boards of both TFN and the Education Fund. [11]