Eastside Spotlight: Morgan Taplin

In the vibrant heart of San Antonio, Texas, where the Eastside streets of the Eastwood neighborhood intersect with the determined spirit of a woman raised by resilience, Morgan Taplin’s story begins—and it’s one deeply rooted in purpose, passion, and perseverance.

From the Eastside to Executive Leadership

Born and raised in San Antonio’s Eastside, off W.W. White Road, Morgan Taplin’s early years were surrounded by a strong sense of community, family, and culture. Transitioning into adulthood on the Northside near Kitty Hawk Road and The Forum, she began shaping a life that would evolve into a beacon for women leaders across Texas.

Her career began behind the scenes, with administrative roles serving as the foundational training ground for what was to come. But Morgan’s natural charisma, strong communication skills, and eye for branding soon shifted her path into the marketing world—a field where her talents didn’t just shine; they blazed.

With seven years of marketing experience, she now leads as the Marketing Manager for the San Antonio Zoo and serves as the visionary Founder of Female Executives of Texas (FETX)—an organization born from a personal need for mentorship and a communal void that she felt Black and Hispanic women in business desperately needed to be filled.

The Spark that Lit a Movement

In 2018, Morgan Taplin recognized something missing while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams through photography. There was no centralized hub, support system, or tailored community for women like her—driven, ambitious, and often overlooked. Instead of waiting for that space to appear, she created it.

Female Executives of Texas (FETX) started as a small network. Today, it’s a powerful force throughout Texas, dedicated to empowering, educating, and uplifting women of color in business through mentorship, resources, and community-driven events.

Her ability to build bridges, spark conversations, and create spaces for growth has made her a pillar in the entrepreneurial and nonprofit communities.

Resilience in the Face of Resistance

But Morgan’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Being a bold, “chocolate girl with big ambitions,” she faced resistance both externally and from within her circles. Navigating predominantly white industries before DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) was mainstream meant Morgan had to learn to advocate for herself early, earn respect in unwelcoming rooms, and sometimes walk away from spaces that refused to honor her worth.

“It wasn’t just about fighting for my seat at the table,” she shares. “It was about knowing when to stand firm and walk away on my terms.”

Even within the rising “boss babe” culture, Morgan saw her ideas mirrored without acknowledgment. But her commitment to authenticity has allowed FETX to withstand trend cycles, remain rooted in its mission, and continue growing—proof that integrity outlasts imitation.

Making History, Building Legacy

Morgan’s accomplishments are a testament to her unwavering commitment. From her early advocacy days as Ms. NAACP San Antonio to leading the first-ever Black family-casted commercial at the San Antonio Zoo, her resume reflects a lifetime of firsts and bold moves.

She was recently accepted into the African American Leadership Institute and made history in 2024 as the first Black woman finalist in two MySA Readers’ Choice Award categories—Community Leader and Woman in Leadership.

As the Marketing Director for the Texas Fashion Industry Board, she continues to advocate for Black and Brown creatives and ensure the fashion industry accommodates underrepresented voices.

The Heart Behind the Hustle

Underneath the titles, accolades, and initiatives is a woman led by faith and fueled by love for her community. Morgan was raised by a powerful single mother who exemplified grace and confidence. She learned early how to move with poise in any room. Her strength is inherited, and her vision is God-led.

“I’ve had businesses fail, lost people I loved, faced rejection and doubt—but I never stayed down,” she says. “What sets me apart is that I get back up—every single time. And that strength doesn’t come from me but from God.”

Whether running a campaign, mentoring women, or simply reading her fifth book of the year over a vanilla chai latte, Morgan Taplin is always learning, growing, and leading.

A Message to the Women Watching

Morgan wants women—especially Black and Brown women—to know that they belong in boardrooms, on stages, at the helm of their own businesses, in rooms where decisions are made, and in communities that once overlooked them.

“There’s enough money and sisterhood for everyone,” she says. “Even when it feels lonely, keep building. Someone needs what you’re creating.”

Connect and Collaborate

Morgan invites others to support FETX through their 2025 “2K Initiative”, which fuels mentorship programs, events, and leadership development for women across Texas. Contributions, attendance, or simply sharing their mission helps expand the movement.

Fun Fact: A Dunder Mifflin Devotee

Don’t be fooled by the power suits—Morgan Taplin is also a certified The Office superfan. From Dwight Schrute mugs to random quotes like “Bears. Beets. Battlestar Galactica,” her love for the sitcom is serious business. “Dwight is unhinged and brilliant—and honestly, a questionable but low-key iconic leader.”

Final Words of Wisdom

“Flapping a butterfly’s wing can cause a typhoon halfway around the world.”
Morgan reminds us that small actions can spark massive change. Keep showing up, even when no one’s watching. You’re creating waves.


Morgan Taplin isn’t just a leader—she’s a movement. With every step forward, she’s blazing trails, opening doors, and reminding women everywhere that their voices, stories, and dreams are powerful beyond measure.