Governor Greg Abbott announced on Apr. 23 the reappointment of Brandy Bergeron, M.D., Shawn M. Sparrow, and Amy Townsend, M.D. to the Jefferson and Orange Counties Board of Pilot Commissioners for terms ending August 22, 2027. The board has exclusive authority over pilot services in these counties, including oversight of vessel stops and landing places along navigable streams within its jurisdiction.
The appointments are important because the board plays a key role in regulating maritime activities that impact local commerce and transportation safety.
Bergeron is an anesthesiologist based in Beaumont who serves as a physician partner at Anesthesia Associates and as medical director for Christus Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth. She participates actively in professional organizations such as the Texas Society of Anesthesiologists, American Society of Anesthesiologists, Texas Medical Association, and Symphony League of Beaumont. Bergeron earned her Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and her medical degree from The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.
Sparrow is vice president at The Houseman Companies and executive director at First State Bank of Texas and County Bancshares, Inc. He currently chairs the Board of Pilot Commissioners—a position he has held for six years—and has previously led community groups like the Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Orange. Sparrow holds a business degree from Lamar University.
Townsend owns Magnolia Direct Primary Care in Orange and is active with both the Jefferson County Medical Society (as past president) and TMA’s Committee on Independent Physician Practice (as chair). She also participates in civic groups such as Rotary Club Bridge City-Orangefield. Townsend completed her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University before earning her medical degree from UT Medical Branch at Galveston.
The Office of the Texas Governor serves as the executive branch promoting economic opportunity, education, public safety, appointing individuals to boards such as this one while supporting programs for women and people with disabilities according to its official website. Greg Abbott is currently serving as the state’s 48th governor according to its official website.
The Governor’s Mansion stands out not only for being established in 1856 but also for being among America’s oldest continuously occupied governor’s residences according to its official website. The office continues providing leadership across all regions while fostering growth through collaboration with businesses and local governments according to its official website.