Johanne Gatto and Joe Gatto are proud Houstonians who believe the future of our city depends on access to exceptional educational opportunities for every child, regardless of their ZIP code. Together, they share a deep commitment to strengthening Houston through investments in education and are passionate advocates for organizations that create lasting impact for students and families.  

Joe currently serves on the YES Prep Board of Directors, where he is Treasurer, and brings decades of leadership experience guiding organizations through periods of growth and transformation, most recently as President and CEO of Callon Petroleum. He also serves on the board of TiE Houston and advises early-stage energy technology companies at Greentown Labs. Johanne serves on the Board of Trustees of The Awty International School and is actively engaged in supporting initiatives that strengthen the Houston community. Together, they are dedicated to helping ensure that all students have access to the educational experiences they need to thrive. 

This year, Johanne and Joe are generously serving as co-chairs of The Power of YES Prep Luncheon, helping raise awareness and support for YES Prep's mission of empowering all students to succeed in college and live lives of opportunity. 

We recently sat down with Johanne and Joe to learn more about their connection to YES Prep, their passion for education, and what inspires their involvement in this year's luncheon. 

What initially drew you to YES Prep, and why did its mission resonate with you? 

Our connection to YES Prep began through our shared belief that education is the most powerful investment a community can make. As Houstonians for nearly three decades, we've seen firsthand how access to excellent schools can change the trajectory of a student's life, strengthen families, and shape the future of our city. 

For us, this belief is also deeply personal. Much of Joe’s extended family spent their careers in public education, and their example has shaped how we both think about the difference a great teacher or school leader can make in a child’s life. As a public school system, YES Prep offers that opportunity to all Houston families and champions that tradition of public service. 

The more we learned about YES Prep's impact and track record, the more convinced we became that its work is critical to Houston's future. The organization has demonstrated that outstanding outcomes are possible at scale and that every student deserves access to a high-quality education, regardless of background or circumstance. 

What about YES Prep inspires you? 

What inspires us most is YES Prep's unwavering commitment to excellence and its belief in the potential of every student. Houston is one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in the country, and our greatest asset has always been our young people. The students, educators, and leaders throughout YES Prep are united by a shared mission and a determination to achieve exceptional outcomes. Watching students discover their potential and pursue ambitious goals is a powerful reminder of what's possible when the right opportunities are made available. 

What excites you most about serving as chairs of this year's luncheon? 

We're excited to bring together business, civic, and community leaders who care deeply about Houston's future. The luncheon provides a unique opportunity to celebrate YES Prep's excellence, hear directly from those whose lives have been transformed by education, and rally support for continued growth and success. 

Most importantly, we're looking forward to elevating the conversation around educational excellence and ensuring that more Houstonians understand the vital role organizations like YES Prep play in our city's future. 

In what ways does the luncheon inspire and engage the Houston community, and why do you believe YES Prep plays such a vital role in Houston's success? 

Houston is navigating a rapidly evolving economic and civic landscape. The energy industry that built this city is being expanded and reshaped by innovation and technology, and sectors from healthcare to manufacturing continue to be solidified as key pillars of local industry. To remain competitive and continue growing, we need educational institutions that consistently prepare students to lead, innovate, and contribute to their communities. 

The luncheon shines a spotlight on what's possible when students are given access to high-quality educational opportunities and dedicated support systems. It helps connect community members to the impact of YES Prep's work and demonstrates why investing in education remains one of the highest-return commitments our city can make. 

If you could encourage the YES Prep community to take one action in support of our students and schools, what would it be? 

Stay engaged and continue advocating for educational opportunities that reach every corner of Houston. Whether through volunteering, mentorship, philanthropy, or simply sharing the YES Prep story, each person can help expand opportunities for students. 

When we invest in young people, we invest in Houston's future workforce, future leaders, and future innovators. 

Why do you believe YES Prep is a worthwhile investment for Houston's future? 

Simply put, YES Prep delivers results – real, measurable returns for students and for Houston that we are celebrating here today. Through an unwavering commitment to excellence, the organization has a proven track record of helping students achieve outcomes that transform lives and strengthen communities. 

 

Supporting YES Prep is an investment in the future of Houston. Every student who is empowered to reach their full potential contributes to a stronger city, a more vibrant economy, and a brighter future for all of us. We're honored to support that mission and invite others to join us. 

Click here to learn more about the luncheon and supporting The Power of YES!