Meet Our Team

Tate Branch

Founder

The spoken words of Jesus are printed in red in the Bible which inspired the naming and formation of The Written In Red Foundation.   It is Tate’s wish to help others by continuing to give through The Written In Red Foundation.  

Kandi Branch

Outreach Projects Coordinator

Kandi was born and raised in Artesia.  She knew from an early age that she wanted to teach and work with children.  She graduated from Artesia High School and attended Eastern New Mexico University in Portales where she received degrees in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education with Minors in Music Education and Language Arts/English.

Elisabeth Jackson

Executive Director

Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Elisabeth graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Marketing. Since then, she has worked in the oil and gas industry and has spent the last seven years in the non-profit sector. She brings her non-profit experience and love for the Artesia community to the Executive Director role. 

Dr. Crit Caton

Scholarship Coordinator

Crit impacted New Mexico public schools for over three decades as a teacher, coach, athletic director and administrator. Since his days as a student and basketball player in Hobbs NM, Crit knew the value of teamwork, goal-setting, and determination. He has earned the reputation of a true leader because of his willingness to go the extra mile, whenever, wherever, and for whomever needs his assistance.