DART Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

DART has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to public service, DART connects communities through reliable and accessible transportation, shaping the future of mobility in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Leadership Roles at DART

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Thom Taylor
  • Interim President & Chief Executive Officer - David Leininger
  • Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Russell Stone
  • Chief of Staff - Kay Shelton
  • Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Holly Roberts
  • Assistant VP, To In Information Technology & Chief Information Officer, Amp - Lucy Sixtos
  • Vice President Chief Information Officer - Julius Smith
  • Chief People Officer - Mauro Calcano
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Communications Officer - Jeamy Molina
  • Thom Taylor - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Thom Taylor directs DART's overall strategic vision and operational execution. As President & Chief Executive Officer, Taylor guides the agency's mission to provide comprehensive transit services across Dallas and its surrounding suburbs. This leadership role involves overseeing all departments, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and fostering innovation in public transportation. Taylor's purview extends to developing long-term growth strategies that enhance connectivity and accessibility for millions of riders. The executive's focus remains on optimizing service delivery and expanding DART's reach within the North Texas region. Taylor drives initiatives that align with the agency's commitment to sustainable and efficient mobility solutions, directly impacting the daily lives of commuters and the economic vitality of the area.

    David Leininger - Interim President & Chief Executive Officer

    David Leininger provides critical leadership as Interim President & Chief Executive Officer, ensuring continuity and strategic direction for DART. Leininger's responsibilities encompass guiding the agency's extensive network of bus, light rail, and commuter rail services throughout Dallas and its suburban communities. This executive role demands a deep understanding of operational efficiencies and public transit management. Leininger focuses on maintaining high standards of service reliability and safety for all DART riders. The interim leadership ensures that ongoing projects and strategic initiatives continue to advance, supporting DART's core mission of connecting the region. David Leininger's tenure emphasizes stability and forward momentum, reinforcing DART's role as a vital transportation provider.
    David Leininger

    Russell Stone - Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Russell Stone directs DART's extensive operational activities as Vice President & Chief Operating Officer. Stone oversees the day-to-day management of the agency's diverse fleet, including buses, light rail, and commuter rail services across Dallas and its surrounding areas. This critical role ensures the reliable and efficient delivery of transportation services to millions of riders annually. Stone's responsibilities encompass optimizing route performance, managing fleet maintenance, and implementing operational improvements to enhance rider experience and safety. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight is fundamental to DART's mission of providing accessible and dependable public transit. Russell Stone's leadership drives operational excellence and supports DART's commitment to the North Texas community.
    Russell Stone

    Kay Shelton - Chief of Staff

    Kay Shelton serves as Chief of Staff, providing direct support and strategic coordination for DART's executive leadership. Shelton manages key initiatives and ensures efficient communication across all organizational levels. This role involves streamlining operations and facilitating the implementation of strategic plans developed by the President & Chief Executive Officer. Kay Shelton's responsibilities include overseeing special projects, preparing executive briefings, and ensuring alignment with DART's overarching mission. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of contact for critical organizational matters, driving efficiency and effectiveness throughout the agency. Shelton's contributions are vital to the smooth functioning of DART's executive operations and its commitment to serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

    Holly Roberts - Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Holly Roberts provides essential administrative and operational support as Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. Roberts manages complex scheduling, coordinates executive communications, and facilitates the smooth functioning of the Human Resources department. This role is critical for ensuring that the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer can effectively lead talent acquisition, employee development, and HR policy implementation across DART. Roberts handles confidential information and plays a key part in maintaining organizational efficiency. The executive assistant's meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach are fundamental to supporting DART's commitment to its workforce and its mission of providing essential transit services.

    Lucy Sixtos - Assistant VP, To In Information Technology & Chief Information Officer, Amp

    Lucy Sixtos holds a pivotal role as Assistant VP, To In Information Technology & Chief Information Officer, Amp, driving technological advancements within DART. Sixtos oversees critical IT infrastructure and information systems that support the agency's extensive transportation network. This leadership position involves developing and implementing technology strategies that enhance operational efficiency, data security, and rider experience. Sixtos's focus is on leveraging cutting-edge IT solutions to optimize DART's bus and rail operations across the Dallas-Fort Worth region. The Assistant VP ensures that technology investments align with DART's strategic goals, contributing to reliable service delivery and innovation in public transit. Lucy Sixtos's expertise is crucial for maintaining DART's technological edge.

    Julius Smith - Vice President Chief Information Officer

    Julius Smith leads DART's information technology strategy and execution as Vice President Chief Information Officer. Smith is responsible for the agency's technology infrastructure, ensuring robust and secure systems that support DART's vast transportation operations. This executive role involves overseeing the development and implementation of IT solutions that enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and rider engagement across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Smith's focus is on leveraging technology to drive innovation in public transit, from real-time tracking to data analytics. The Chief Information Officer plays a crucial part in safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring the reliability of all digital platforms. Julius Smith's expertise is vital for DART's technological advancement and operational integrity.

    Mauro Calcano - Chief People Officer

    Mauro Calcano leads DART's human capital strategy as Chief People Officer, overseeing all aspects of workforce management and development. Calcano is responsible for attracting, retaining, and nurturing the talent necessary to operate DART's comprehensive transit services across Dallas and its suburbs. This executive role encompasses talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and organizational culture initiatives. Calcano's strategic direction ensures that DART's workforce is equipped with the skills and support needed to deliver exceptional service. The Chief People Officer plays a vital part in fostering a positive and productive work environment, aligning human resources functions with the agency's mission. Mauro Calcano's leadership is instrumental in building a strong and dedicated team.

    Jeamy Molina - Executive Vice President & Chief Communications Officer

    Jeamy Molina directs DART's comprehensive communication strategies as Executive Vice President & Chief Communications Officer. Molina is responsible for shaping and disseminating the agency's message to the public, stakeholders, and internal teams across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This leadership role involves managing public relations, media outreach, marketing initiatives, and community engagement efforts. Molina ensures clear and consistent communication regarding DART's services, projects, and impact on the region. The Chief Communications Officer plays a critical part in building and maintaining DART's public image and fostering strong relationships with the communities it serves. Jeamy Molina's expertise is essential for articulating DART's value and advancing its mission through effective communication.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding DART Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads DART?
    DART is led by Thom Taylor (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as David Leininger (Interim President & Chief Executive Officer) and Russell Stone (Vice President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of DART’s executive team?
    The executive team of DART includes leaders such as Thom Taylor (President & Chief Executive Officer), David Leininger (Interim President & Chief Executive Officer), Russell Stone (Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does DART have?
    DART has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in DART’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of DART includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Interim President & Chief Executive Officer, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer.