Board

Lillie Miller

Lillie Miller, a sixth-generation Collin County resident from Melissa, is a dedicated preservationist with over 20 years of experience in commercial advertising. A graduate of McKinney High School and the University of Texas at Austin, she specializes in researching and sharing local history, especially underrepresented stories.

Lillie is founder and president of the Melissa Historical Society and serves on the Collin County Historical Commission and Highland Cemetery Association Board. She has led significant preservation projects, including historic cemetery designations and public education programs in partnership with the Melissa Public Library. Lillie is known for fostering collaboration among historical groups, local governments, and the community to preserve and celebrate Collin County’s heritage.

John Royer

John Royer is a seasoned business leader and community advocate with over four decades of experience in sales, human resources, and entrepreneurship. He holds a B.A. from Baylor University and an M.B.A. from the University of North Texas. John owns CARSTAR Little Elm and serves as President of 3 Nations Brewing—an award-winning craft brewery honored three times as Dallas Observer’s Brewery of the Year and recognized with Small Business of the Year awards from the Farmers Branch, Carrollton, and Anna Chambers of Commerce.

Deeply committed to civic life and historical preservation, he serves on the Board of the Anna Chamber of Commerce and participates in several historical societies. His efforts have garnered multiple accolades, including the Anna Chamber’s 2023 Business Person of the Year and the Leadership in Preservation Award (2025) from the Collin County Historical Commission.

Ben Matthews

Ben Matthews is a multi-business owner and entrepreneur whose ventures operate at the local, national, and international levels. His portfolio spans marketing, real estate, technology, and investment. Among these is Red Properties, which owns the Historic Collin County Prison, a Texas Landmark. He also founded Red Pegasus, a communications and strategy firm that helps organizations build a lasting impact across diverse audiences.

Ben has a passion for history. He has traveled extensively through the Americas, Europe, and Asia, studying cultural preservation. These global experiences have sharpened his belief that historical understanding is essential to a thriving civic identity. His children have been educated through a blend of public, private, and homeschool pathways, and his wife holds a Ph.D. in education and serves in administration for McKinney ISD — deepening the family’s connection to the local community. Ben is also active in his local church community and brings a dedicated approach to both his business and civic efforts.

Don Parker

Don Parker is a valued member of the Collin County History Museum community, generously sharing his time, talents, and enthusiasm to help support the museum and preserve Collin County’s history.

Around the museum, Don has become known as quite the builder and handyman—the person willing to jump in, build something, fix something, or help bring an idea to life. Whether lending a hand with exhibits, museum projects, or the many behind-the-scenes needs that keep things running, his creativity and can-do spirit make a lasting impact. Don’s dedication and willingness to help wherever needed make him an important part of the museum family and our mission to keep Collin County history alive for generations to come.

Nina Ringley

Nina Dowell Ringley is a McKinney native, longtime historic preservation advocate, and dedicated supporter of the community. A graduate of McKinney High School with deep family roots in the area, Nina has spent decades working to preserve and celebrate the history, architecture, and character of McKinney.

Her community service has included involvement with the McKinney Historic Neighborhood Association, the McKinney Arts Commission, and the City's Historic Preservation Advisory Board. Throughout the years, Nina has been a passionate voice for protecting McKinney's historic places and ensuring the stories connected to them are not lost as the community grows.

At the Collin County History Museum, Nina brings not only her enthusiasm for local history but also decades of knowledge and connection to the community. Her commitment to preservation and her love for McKinney make her a valued part of the museum and its mission to keep Collin County's history alive for future generations.

Ed Hodnicki

Ed Hodnicki is a retired business professional, community volunteer, and dedicated supporter of the Collin County History Museum. Drawing on years of professional experience in sales, marketing, and business, Ed brings valuable perspective, leadership, and a willingness to lend a hand wherever needed.

Ed has served on the Board of Directors of the Collin County Historical Society and continues to generously give his time to support the museum, its programs, and the community it serves.

Randy Wise

Randy Wise brings over 24 years of experience in the financial services industry. He currently serves as the Senior Lender and Anna Market President for Lamar National Bank, where he focuses on building strong relationships and supporting local growth. Randy also leads 1031 Exchange Services by Lamar, LLC, as its Director, helping clients navigate complex real estate transactions.

A graduate of Kansas State University with a degree in finance and economics, Randy is passionate about serving his community and helping others succeed. He is an active member of the Lair Cemetery Board and a member of the Hurricane Creek Rotary Club in Anna and is proud to contribute to preserving local heritage. He has a strong appreciation for history and is committed to supporting efforts that protect and celebrate the stories of the region's past. Outside of his professional commitments, Randy enjoys traveling with his wife of 22 years, Amanda, and spending time outdoors waterfowl hunting with friends.