Joy Harris Philpott

A fifth generation Texan and native of Saint Jo, Texas, Joy Harris Philpott serves as the Director of Advanced Academics in Hays Consolidated ISD.

Two years of service in Mississippi Teacher Corps cemented Ms. Harris Philpott’s love of and dedication to public education. She has devoted her career—first in the classroom and then in administrative roles—to ensuring that ALL students have access to the kinds of rigorous, relevant coursework and experiences she desires for her own children.

She has consulted with the Bryan Museum to connect its resources with teachers for students, is proud to serve on the Advisory Board for Texas History for Teachers, TX4T, and is a passionate proponent of Texas History Day.

Ms. Harris Philpott earned a B.A. in history and English, a M.A. in English, and a M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Mississippi where she also taught as a graduate instructor while completing her thesis, “Embodying the Texas Frontier: Notes Toward a Somatic Reading of Captivity Narratives.”

She resides in Austin where she serves on the Vestry of St. David’s Episcopal Church and the Board of Magdalene House Austin.

Position

Board Member (2022–2023)

TSHA Committees

Education Committee

Commemorating 250 years of American independence through the stories, people, and places that shaped Texas and the nation.

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Texans have a unique opportunity to reflect on the state’s role in the American story. Through exhibitions, programs, educational initiatives, and community events across Texas, Texas America250 encourages celebration, reflection, and commemoration at both local and statewide levels. At the Texas State Historical Association, we are proud to support this important moment through our mission-driven work in history education and public engagement, including Texas History Day, and we invite students, educators, and communities to explore this milestone in meaningful ways.

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On July 4, 2026, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the greatest nation in the history of the world. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Long may these ideals live in the heart of every Texan and every American. May God bless all who have defended our freedoms that we enjoy each day. And God bless the United States of America.

Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas

Joy Harris Philpott