Patrick D. Willis has enjoyed more than 25+ years of service in helping organizations meet their growth and operational goals. He has participated in some of the most meaningful and game-changing capital campaigns, created some of the area’s most memorable special events, and strategically planned and implemented annual fundraising campaigns for non-profit organizations. He recently created a non-profit professional management training series, “The Seven Arenas of Infinite Possibilities” and the “Five Core Stages of Non-Profit Organizations” to assist boards of directors and staff with enhancing their governance and organizational structures.

In addition, Patrick has spent the past three decades involved in local, state, and national political campaigns and a myriad of public relations endeavors. There is no denying his passion for this region of our state.

Patrick also believes in giving back to the community, including a strong emphasis on his alma maters, The University of Texas at Tyler and Tyler Junior College. He has sponsored shows and lectures at the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center. He is a lifetime member of the Cowan Center Advisory Board, a member of the Cowan Center Performance Excellence Endowment Committee, and served for ten years as a director of the UT Tyler Alumni Association. Patrick is a member of the UT System Chancellor’s Council and has been a member of the UT Tyler President’s Associates since 2004. In 2016, Willis served as a historical consultant to the TJC 90th Anniversary Book Committee chronicling the College’s storied history. In 2019, he served on the TJC Ambassador Inauguration Committee for the 7th President. He is a current member of the TJC President’s Circle.

He is active with the Texas Rose Festival, where he serves as The Thursday Luncheon Celebration Co-Chairman during Festival Week, and is a Summer Kick-Off Party Host. He is a member of the Order of the Rose, serving as the Queen’s Ball Usher Chairman since 2011. Patrick currently serves on the boards of directors of the Association of Fundraising Professionals-East Texas Chapter, the Smith County Bar Foundation, and the Tyler Rose Museum.

In 2014, he was honored with the W.C. Windsor Award by the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce as Tyler’s most outstanding citizen under the age of 40. Patrick is also a member of the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs Committee. He and his three children are members of Christ Episcopal Church.