AUSTIN, Texas – Houston businessman William A. McMinn was elected chairman of the Board of Directors of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, the state’s leading free market policy research institute. The election took place at the director’s meeting on Friday, October 22.
Started in 1989, the Foundation focuses on Texas policy issues ranging from education and transportation to taxes, health care and natural resources. As a non-profit, non-partisan organization, the Foundation does not take government grants and is supported solely through charitable giving.
McMinn was elected to lead the volunteer board of directors, the Foundation’s governing body. He succeeds Wendy L. Gramm, Ph.D., who has served as chair for five years. Dr. Gramm chose not to seek re-election, but will remain active on the Foundation’s board.
“Bill is a hard-working, visionary leader,” said Gramm. “His commitment to free market principles and desire to see a better Texas for all people is evident in everything he does.”
Following graduation from Vanderbilt University, McMinn began his career in the chemical industry as a researcher, first at Monsanto then Escambia. His leadership talents were recognized as he rose through the ranks at Petro-Tex, serving as vice president of sales. He was tapped in 1973 by the FMC Corp. to serve as vice president and general manager for the independent chemical group.
McMinn later took the reins of Cain Chemical, serving as president and CEO until the company was sold to Oxy in 1988. He has served on several corporate boards, including Arcadian, Carbon Technologies, Dunti Corp., Gabriel Holdings, and Texas Petrochemicals.
He previously served as vice-chairman of the Texas Public Policy Foundation board of directors.
“I’m excited and honored to serve as board chairman, and work more closely with the Foundation staff. The Texas Public Policy Foundation serves an important role in the state. By developing sound research and fresh ideas, lawmakers are able to develop better laws that improve Texas for everyone.”
McMinn and his wife have four children. His diverse interests include snorkeling, astrophysics, and tennis.