Tom Luce is the CEO of the National Math and Science Initiative, a public-private partnership that ensures students are equipped for careers in mathematics and the sciences regardless of race, gender or financial status. The project recognizes that students who are capable of handling the rigorous material of these classes are imperative to continuing America’s leadership in the global economy.

Luce served as the U.S. assistant secretary of education for planning, evaluation and policy development under President George W. Bush from 2005 to 2006. Texas governors have appointed Luce to five major posts, including chief justice pro tempore of the Texas Supreme Court. He is perhaps best known for his role as the chief of staff of the Texas Select Committee of Public Education, which produced one of the first sweeping reform efforts among the nation’s public schools. Luce is also the founder of the National Center for Educational Accountability and Communities Just for the Kids.