33rd Annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon, hosted by the Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals, honors some of Dallas’ most outstanding philanthropists and volunteers 

For over 24 years, Plano resident Luanne Samuel, a resident of Steeplechase in Plano,  has been successfully raising funds – not only in the Dallas area, but also internationally. On November 9, Samuel will be honored with the Outstanding Fundraising Executive Award, at the 33^rd Annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon “Stories Worth Telling,” 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Dallas, Reunion Ballroom. This annual event celebrates Dallas’ National Philanthropy Day, bringing together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor many of this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes.

Nominated by Jana Haigood of the Alcuin School, Samuel began her development career while working for the International School of Geneva, a country without philanthropic tradition and a dislike of solicitations. She created a development position to meet the school’s financial needs, and she has continued her leadership as president of the school’s Ecolint-American Foundation, which she revitalized. She has held high level positions in eight organizations including the Alcuin School, Dallas CASA, International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), and the World Craniofacial Foundation and has raised close to $80 million in form of capital gifts, sponsorships, annual gifts, and grants – resulting in new buildings, purposeful learning spaces, scholarships, protection for abused children and strategic programs.

“One of the most valuable gifts Luanne has given to nonprofits is leaving the organizations in a position to sustain substantial giving in the future,” said Jana Haigood, Alcuin School. “She has established scholarships, given new life to existing scholarships, participated in board member recruitment and created parent and alumni engagement plans at the various schools she has served for the purpose of outreach and solicitation.  Operations of all the places she has served are stronger because of her contributions.”

Samuel’s skills have resulted in expanded donor portfolios for all, including an 83 percent increase in donors for IBO. She has been an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and held multiple leadership positions including president, vice president of public relations and membership and has served as a member of the nominating committee. She is a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and a former member of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS) Development Group. Additionally, she served as a member of the AFP International Chapter Support Committee for many years and received her CFRE certification in 2002. She has attended numerous professional conferences and workshops and is a proponent for mentoring, professional development and education. Outside of her development work, she has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in foster care, an active board member of the Northwood Woman’s Club, and a member of the Review Committee for the Governor’s Volunteer Awards for the State of Texas. She gives generously to Alcuin School, AFP, and multiple organizations that are meaningful to her.

The luncheon, which is sponsored by South Texas Money Management (STMM), will honor five additional recipients:

Outstanding Philanthropist Jack Furst, nominated by the Boy Scouts of America, gives his time, talent and treasure quietly and without hesitation to make the world a better place.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Kaki Hopkins, nominated by the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, has been a dedicated volunteer for almost 40 years for more than 14 organizations – chairing an event a year and often asked to chair the same events multiple times.

Outstanding Foundation Joe M. and Doris R. Dealey Family Foundation, nominated by Texas Health Resources, was founded to honor the late Joe and Doris Dealey. Today it carries the family’s philanthropic legacy forward by continuing its support of numerous community organizations and institutions including Texas Health Resources, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas, Dallas Foundation, Dallas Heritage Village, The Dallas Historical Society, Parkland Foundation, SPCA of Texas, and many more.

Outstanding Corporation Pioneer Natural Resources, nominated by Dallas CASA and Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, has created a corporate culture that strives to improve communities and help children succeed in school, the workforce, and life.

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Jingle Bell Mistletoe, nominated by The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), has put nearly 300,000 nutritious meals on the tables of hungry North Texans by selling mistletoe in the winter over the past four years.

“Dallas citizens are passionate, driven, and generous volunteers and philanthropists, but that’s not enough,” said Jeanie Wyatt, CFA, STMM’s founder and CEO. “We depend on our nonprofits to meet so many of our city’s most basic needs. With over 1,000 nonprofits throughout Dallas, it’s vital that we have a professional organization, like AFP, helping nonprofit fundraising professionals raise more money and do it in effective and ethical ways.”

The Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP was among the first to begin celebrating National Philanthropy Day in 1981.  Today, over 500 attend the luncheon which includes AFP members and community leaders.  National Philanthropy Day celebrates the great contributions philanthropy, and those who work in the philanthropic process, make to our community. AFP Chapters involve more than 28,000 individuals in celebrating philanthropy each year. 

“STMM is pleased to sponsor the Greater Dallas AFP for the fourth consecutive year,” said Stan Shipley, President and CEO, STMM Family Office.  “AFP upholds the highest ethical fundraising and, importantly, effective fundraising. We are pleased to support AFP chapters around Texas including Austin, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and the Greater Plains Chapter."

Sponsors to date are: $10,000 (presenting sponsor): South Texas Money Management; $7,500 (luncheon sponsor): Boy Scouts of America; $5,000 (awards sponsors): Boy Scouts of America, Chick-fil-A Foundation, ClubCorp, Texas Capital Bank, Texas Health Resources; $2,500 (community sponsors): M. Gale & Associates, LLC, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas; $1,500 (reception sponsor): The Color of Money.

The luncheon is chaired by William Bryant and will be emceed by longtime supporter Scott Murray. Murray Media, in-kind sponsor of the luncheon, produces the luncheon videos featuring the accomplishments of each award recipient.  Rodney D. Bullard, Vice President of Community Affairs for Chick-fil-A, Inc. and Executive Director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation, will provide executive remarks.

“National Philanthropy Day is a day to remember and recognize the impact philanthropy – charitable giving, volunteering and engagement – has made in our world,” said Luncheon Chair William Bryant. “This day was first celebrated in 1986 in the U.S. with a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan.  We hope you will join us in paying tribute to those who make the city of Dallas such a vibrant philanthropic community.”

Luncheon tickets are $95. For tickets and sponsorships, visit afpdallas.org or contact Madeleine Crouch at 972-233-9107, ext. 204, afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.

Hosted by the Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals, the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon honors some of Dallas’ most outstanding philanthropists and volunteers 

Jack Furst, future resident of Flower Mound, gives his time, talent and treasure quietly and without hesitation to make the world a better place. On November 9, he will be honored with the Outstanding Philanthropist Award, at the 33^rd Annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon “Stories Worth Telling,” 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. This annual event celebrates Dallas’ National Philanthropy Day, bringing together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor many of this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes.

“I believe that confidence creates momentum,” said Furst. “And, with momentum, all things are possible. I am a big thinker and prefer to engage and lead transformational projects that are youth-centric. We are only limited by our creativity and imagination.”

Furst was nominated for this honor by the Boy Scouts of America. He is a Boy Scout and Distinguished Eagle Scout, and it appears his life is a series of ongoing Eagle Scout projects. The Boy Scouts of America national leadership requested Furst lead an effort to find a home for the National Scout Jamboree, a new high adventure base and leadership training center. Furst and other founding donors contributed $400+ million to build it—the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia. When Circle Ten Council President, Furst designed a $90 million campaign and gave a large leadership gift. He also endowed the Jack D. Furst Aquatics Base at Camp Constantin.

Furst directed Arizona State University’s $85 million campaign to convert the football stadium into a 24/7/365 community union. His vision, leadership, and sizeable gift turned the aspiration into reality. He also created a professorship specializing in private investment at ASU. Furst and his partners endowed a Private Equity Center at The University of Texas at Austin. He was instrumental in creating the Carry the Load National Tour and donated land and a sizable gift to build Cross Timbers Community Church and Liberty Christian School in Argyle.

Furst also supports: YMCA, Friends of Dallas Fire-Rescue, National Safety Council, Pure Adventure, Special Olympics International, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, The Salvation Army, Dallas Can Academy, Christian Community Action, North Texas Food Bank, and World Scout Organization.

“Jack Furst is a philanthropist who leads with his heart and shares his vast experiences, wisdom and personal resources in ways that few will ever match or even attempt to duplicate,” said Bobby B Lyle. “He is a leader that others seek to follow, a man of faith, and a role model for young and old alike.”

Furst is a distinguished private equity investor and an adjunct professor at The University of North Texas and The University of Texas at Dallas. He serves on numerous corporate boards and advisory councils. Furst is a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute, a member of ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business Hall of Fame, and Honorary Mountaineer Brigadier of the West Virginia National Guard. He is a recipient of the Outstanding Young Texas Ex Award, the W.P. Carey School of Business Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award, and ASU’s Philanthropist of the Year Award.

The luncheon, which is sponsored by South Texas Money Management (STMM), will honor five additional recipients:

Outstanding Foundation Joe M. and Doris R. Dealey Family Foundation, nominated by Texas Health Resources,wasfounded to honor the late Joe and Doris Dealey. Today it carries the family’s philanthropic legacy forward by continuing its support of numerous community organizations and institutions including Texas Health Resources, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas, Dallas Foundation, Dallas Heritage Village, The Dallas Historical Society, Parkland Foundation, SPCA of Texas, and many more.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Kaki Hopkins, nominated by the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, has been a dedicated volunteer for almost 40 years for more than 14 organizations – chairing an event a year and often asked to chair the same events multiple times.

Outstanding Corporation Pioneer Natural Resources, nominated by Dallas CASA and Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, has created a corporate culture that strives to improve communities and help children succeed in school, the workforce, and life.

Outstanding Fundraising Executive Luanne Samuel, CFRE, nominated by Jana Haigood of the Alcuin School, has over 24 years of fundraising experience.

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Jingle Bell Mistletoe, nominated by The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), has put nearly 300,000 nutritious meals on the tables of hungry North Texans by selling mistletoe in the winter over the past four years.

“Dallas citizens are passionate, driven, and generous volunteers and philanthropists, but that’s not enough,” said Jeanie Wyatt, CFA, STMM’s founder and CEO. “We depend on our nonprofits to meet so many of our city’s most basic needs. With over 1,000 nonprofits throughout Dallas, it’s vital that we have a professional organization, like AFP, helping nonprofit fundraising professionals raise more money and do it in effective and ethical ways.”

The Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP was among the first to begin celebrating National Philanthropy Day in 1981.  Today, over 500 attend the luncheon which includes AFP members and community leaders.  National Philanthropy Day celebrates the great contributions philanthropy, and those who work in the philanthropic process, make to our community. AFP Chapters involve more than 28,000 individuals in celebrating philanthropy each year. 

“STMM is pleased to sponsor the Greater Dallas AFP for the fourth consecutive year,” said Stan Shipley, President and CEO, STMM Family Office.  “AFP upholds the highest ethical fundraising and, importantly, effective fundraising. We are pleased to support AFP chapters around Texas including Austin, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and the Greater Plains Chapter."

Sponsors to date are: $10,000 (presenting sponsor): South Texas Money Management; $7,500 (luncheon sponsor): Boy Scouts of America; $5,000 (awards sponsors): Boy Scouts of America, Chick-fil-A Foundation, ClubCorp, Texas Capital Bank, Texas Health Resources; $2,500 (community sponsors): M. Gale & Associates, LLC, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas; $1,500 (reception sponsor): The Color of Money.

The luncheon is chaired by William Bryant and will be emceed by longtime supporter Scott Murray. Murray Media, in-kind sponsor of the luncheon, produces the luncheon videos featuring the accomplishments of each award recipient.  Rodney D. Bullard, Vice President of Community Affairs for Chick-fil-A, Inc. and Executive Director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation, will provide executive remarks.

“National Philanthropy Day is a day to remember and recognize the impact philanthropy – charitable giving, volunteering and engagement – has made in our world,” said Luncheon Chair William Bryant. “This day was first celebrated in 1986 in the U.S. with a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan.  We hope you will join us in paying tribute to those who make the city of Dallas such a vibrant philanthropic community.”

Luncheon tickets are $95. For tickets and sponsorships, visit afpdallas.orgorcontactMadeleine Crouch at 972-233-9107, ext. 204, afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.

The foundation will be honored at Dallas’ National Philanthropy Day Luncheon on November 9

Founded to honor the late Joe and Doris Dealey, the Joe M. and Doris R. Dealey Family Foundation carries the family’s philanthropic legacy forward by continuing its support of numerous community organizations and institutions including Texas Health Resources, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas, Dallas Foundation, Dallas Heritage Village, The Dallas Historical Society, Parkland Foundation, SPCA of Texas, and many more. On November 9, the foundation will be honored with the Outstanding Foundation Award, at the 33^rd Annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon “Stories Worth Telling,” 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. This annual event celebrates Dallas’ National Philanthropy Day, bringing together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor many of this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes.

The foundation was nominated for this honor by Texas Health Resources. Doris Dealey was instrumental in funding the employee child care center of Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas with a $2 million gift in honor of her late husband, which has played a key role in the hospital’s success in recruiting and retaining doctors, nurses, and professional staff. The Dealey Foundation has also supported innovative, multidisciplinary, patient-centered care to victims of sexual assault and abuse through Texas Health Resources Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program. Additionally, it has provided a challenge grant to grow the SANE Program across a 16-county region making it one of the largest sexual assault treatment programs in the United States.

Joe M. Dealey Sr. was a third generation member of a pioneer Texas newspaper family that founded The Dallas Morning News in 1885, and he was the former chairman and chief executive officer of the A.H. Belo Corporation and president of The Dallas Morning News. One of the key participants in establishing the G.B. Dealey Foundation, Dealey helped lead the foundation to grow to almost $22 million in assets, making grants to 152 charitable organizations. Today Dealey’s children and grandchildren make individual grants in the name of the Dealey Family Foundation from annual stipends they receive. For 21 years, the Dallas Public Library’s poetry competition, which was established by the family to perpetuate Joe M. Dealey Sr.’s memory and his passion for language and self-expression, has inspired creativity of young people in Dallas. Additionally, the Dealey Family made a lead gift to construct a memorial garden in honor of President John F. Kennedy for Parkland Memorial Hospital, and they have supported Children’s Medical Center Foundation for more than 15 years.

“The Dealey Foundation is an important part of the incredible legacy of George Bannerman Dealey, legendary publisher of The Dallas Morning News and owner of A.H. Belo Corporation. There is no more iconic family in the history of our city, and the foundation extends that legacy through its support for historic preservation, public health, and education,” said Brent Christopher, president, Children’s Medical Center Foundation.

The luncheon, which is sponsored by South Texas Money Management (STMM), will honor five additional recipients:

Outstanding Philanthropist Jack Furst, nominated by the Boy Scouts of America, gives his time, talent and treasure quietly and without hesitation to make the world a better place.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Kaki Hopkins, nominated by the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, has been a dedicated volunteer for almost 40 years for more than 14 organizations – chairing an event a year and often asked to chair the same events multiple times.

Outstanding Corporation Pioneer Natural Resources, nominated by Dallas CASA and Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, has created a corporate culture that strives to improve communities and help children succeed in school, the workforce, and life.

Outstanding Fundraising Executive Luanne Samuel, CFRE, nominated by Jana Haigood of the Alcuin School, has over 24 years of fundraising experience.

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Jingle Bell Mistletoe, nominated by The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), has put nearly 300,000 nutritious meals on the tables of hungry North Texans by selling mistletoe in the winter over the past four years.

“Dallas citizens are passionate, driven, and generous volunteers and philanthropists, but that’s not enough,” said Jeanie Wyatt, CFA, STMM’s founder and CEO. “We depend on our nonprofits to meet so many of our city’s most basic needs. With over 1,000 nonprofits throughout Dallas, it’s vital that we have a professional organization, like AFP, helping nonprofit fundraising professionals raise more money and do it in effective and ethical ways.”

The Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP was among the first to begin celebrating National Philanthropy Day in 1981.  Today, over 500 attend the luncheon which includes AFP members and community leaders.  National Philanthropy Day celebrates the great contributions philanthropy, and those who work in the philanthropic process, make to our community. AFP Chapters involve more than 28,000 individuals in celebrating philanthropy each year. 

“STMM is pleased to sponsor the Greater Dallas AFP for the fourth consecutive year,” said Stan Shipley, President and CEO, STMM Family Office.  “AFP upholds the highest ethical fundraising and, importantly, effective fundraising. We are pleased to support AFP chapters around Texas including Austin, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and the Greater Plains Chapter."

Sponsors to date are: $10,000 (presenting sponsor): South Texas Money Management; $7,500 (luncheon sponsor): Boy Scouts of America; $5,000 (awards sponsors): Boy Scouts of America, Chick-fil-A Foundation, ClubCorp, Texas Capital Bank, Texas Health Resources; $2,500 (community sponsors): M. Gale & Associates, LLC, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas; $1,500 (reception sponsor): The Color of Money.

The luncheon is chaired by William Bryant and will be emceed by longtime supporter Scott Murray. Murray Media, in-kind sponsor of the luncheon, produces the luncheon videos featuring the accomplishments of each award recipient.  Rodney D. Bullard, Vice President of Community Affairs for Chick-fil-A, Inc. and Executive Director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation, will provide executive remarks.

“National Philanthropy Day is a day to remember and recognize the impact philanthropy – charitable giving, volunteering and engagement – has made in our world,” said Luncheon Chair William Bryant. “This day was first celebrated in 1986 in the U.S. with a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan.  We hope you will join us in paying tribute to those who make the city of Dallas such a vibrant philanthropic community.”

Luncheon tickets are $95. For tickets and sponsorships, visit afpdallas.org or contact Madeleine Crouch at 972-233-9107, ext. 204, afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.

Neiman Marcus will be honored as Outstanding Corporation at the 32^nd  annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon, “It’s Our Tomorrow,” on Friday, November 10, 2017, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency Dallas, Landmark Ballroom. Hosted by The Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), this annual event brings together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor many of this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes.

For more than 110 years, Neiman Marcus, nominated by Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT), has been giving back to the community.  Their philanthropic legacy began in 1907 through founder Herbert Marcus’ generosity to SMU and the Dallas Opera. Today Neiman Marcus Group is dedicated to serving worthwhile causes within communities where their stores and distribution and operational facilities are located (over 100 across the U.S.). 

With a strategic focus on youth arts education through the HeART of Neiman Marcus program (now 70 percent of the company’s charitable giving), $6.7 million has been provided to nonprofits providing youth arts education, reaching 1.26 million students across the U.S. and over 350,000 in North Texas. Neiman Marcus also supports charitable projects nationwide, assists in disaster relief efforts, works closely with Herbert Marcus Elementary School in DISD and is a sponsor of North Texas Giving Day. Through their charitable funds managed by CFT, Neiman’s has granted over $15 million since 2008. Established in 2014, the Love to Give Campaign, featuring a special collection of gifts with 10 percent of sales supporting nonprofits with youth arts education programming, has resulted in $1 million in donations to date. Neiman’s also partnered with Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts for a student design contest to create the “charm” to adorn holiday gift wrap and provided the winner a cash donation and feature in their iconic Christmas Book.

"CFT has been honored to partner with Neiman Marcus in their charitable giving efforts since 2008," said Monica Egert Smith, Chief Relationship Officer, CFT. "Their gifts provide invaluable support for everything from critical disaster relief to their strategic focus area of youth arts education. The commitment Neiman Marcus has made to our North Texas community is both heartfelt and irreplaceable."

Associates of Neiman’s are encouraged to participate in the All Heart Associate Giving Campaign, which to date, has reached over $3.3 million. Neiman Marcus matches the associates’ gifts both during the campaign period and year round up to 3:1. Through the Associates Grant Competition, each associate is invited to submit an application on behalf of their favorite nonprofit. One recipient is selected, and a $5,000 gift is made in honor of the associate. Neiman Marcus has demonstrated a unique ability to engage and support its employees while making powerful investments in the communities it serves.

The luncheon will feature Jason Lee, JD Esq., interim president and CEO, AFP International as the keynote speaker. Lee represents over 33,000 individuals and organizations that raise more than $115 billion in charitable contributions every year around the world for countless causes. He will speak about the impact of charity and philanthropy.

“With Americans giving nearly $400 billion to charity every year, and charities making up 10 percent of the workforce, the charitable sector is playing a bigger role than ever in our future,” said Jason Lee. “The future belongs to all of us as we come together under the banner of philanthropy to improve our communities, our country and our world.”

Lee previously served as general counsel for AFP, where he increased its public visibility and awareness by developing political initiatives regarding fundraising and philanthropic issues. He also chairs the Charitable Giving Coalition, a Washington, DC-based consortium of nonprofit leaders dedicated to raising awareness on Capitol Hill about the value of the charitable deduction and its impact in supporting essential community services. He has successfully coordinated AFP’s efforts to persuade Congress to pass several important giving incentives, including the IRA Rollover.

“National Philanthropy Day is a special day set aside each year to recognize the great work of those who are active in the philanthropic community and make an impact our world,” said Luncheon Chair Meagan Burton.  “We are not only honoring some extraordinary award recipients, but we are also featuring an inspirational keynote speaker, whose presentation will serve as a powerful reminder of how each of us can make a difference.”

 South Texas Money Management (STMM), Greater Dallas AFP’s first chapter sponsor, is premier sponsor of the luncheon.

 “Dallas citizens are passionate, driven, and generous volunteers and philanthropists, but that’s not enough,” said Jeanie Wyatt, CFA, STMM’s founder and CEO. “We depend on our nonprofits to meet so many of our city’s most basic needs. With over 1,000 nonprofits throughout Dallas, it’s vital that we have a professional organization, like AFP, helping nonprofit fundraising professionals raise more money and do it in effective and ethical ways.”

Additional award recipients to be honored at the luncheon are as follows:

 For over 46 years, Outstanding Philanthropists Dr. Henry Estess and Sandra Estess, nominated by Texas Health Resources Foundation, have played an integral role in supporting Texas Health hospitals. Focusing on health and education, the couple has shown exceptional generosity with their time, money, and leadership for the benefit of many others not only through Texas Health, but also Children’s Health, Ronald McDonald House, Educational First Steps, and more.

 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Lynn McBee, nominated by The Dallas Opera and Dallas Women’s Foundation, is widely known for committing time, talent and philanthropy to benefit worthy organizations throughout the community. McBee has served a wide array of organizations contributing to the arts, culture, and the overall civic profile of Dallas. She serves on multiple boards, has been the recipient of numerous honors, and is the CEO of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network, educating over 4,600 underserved young women in eight schools across the state of Texas.

Outstanding Foundation The Hersh Foundation, nominated by Southwestern Medical Foundation and the Resource Center of Dallas, Inc., is committed to enriching and improving the quality of life for all people by supporting initiatives in three categories: education and leadership; mental health research and mental illness prevention; and North Texas cultural organizations. Julie and Ken Hersh began the foundation in 1997 as a way to secure long-term financial commitments to nonprofits in their community. In addition to the providing the lead gift for the Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care at UTSW and their support of the Youth First Program at the Resource Center, the foundation also supports local non-profits such as the Dallas Theater Center, the George W. Bush Institute, Dallas Urban Debate, Galaxy Counseling Center, Dallas Black Dance Theater, Dallas Children’s Theater, KERA and Momentous Institute.  Julie Hersh will receive the TACA Silver Cup Award in March 2018.

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Micah Pinson, 13, nominated by Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, has conducted annual toy drives for six years resulting in more than 25,000 toys for children at the hospital. Born missing three fingers on his left hand, Pinson is grateful for the special care he received as a patient and wanted to give back.  He learned that toys were an important part of the hospital’s therapeutic care plan for children and began organizing toy drives and engaging the help of other students, corporations, and volunteers with collection, storage and delivery. He inspires others with his kindness and positive outlook and encourages everyone to celebrate their differences.

Outstanding Fundraising Executive Pagett Gosslee, CFRE, nominated by John Roppolo, has over 30 years of fundraising experience. She has been the director of development and alumni relations for the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas since 2009. She has also raised funds for Mercy Ships, Baylor Health Care System Foundation, and Hope Cottage Adoption Center, where she was the first development director in 1988. A member of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) since 1986, she was awarded her CFRE in 1993, chaired the Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon in 1991 and the DFW Philanthropy Conference in 1999, and served as president of the Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP in 2005.

This year, the AFP Greater Dallas Chapter is presenting a Special Recognition Award to Terry L. Simmons, posthumously. Simmons passed away this year at the age of 62. He was a leading advocate for philanthropy in Washington and across the nation with regard to legislative and regulatory issues affecting philanthropy. His crowning professional achievement was preserving for charities the gift annuity and other life income plans, through which billions of dollars have been contributed for public good. In late 1997, The NonProfit Times named Simmons, “Nonprofit Executive of the Year” in recognition of his work.  He was also regularly named as one of The Best Lawyers in America, Top 100 Attorneys in America by Worth Magazine, and Texas’ Super Lawyers.

"We are excited to present and pay tribute to these outstanding individuals and organizations that have positively impacted our community through their leadership, vision and generosity,” emphasized Burton, Dallas National Philanthropy Day Chair.  “Join us on November 10 for one of the most inspiring luncheons in Dallas!”

The Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP was among the first to begin celebrating National Philanthropy Day in 1981.  Today, over 500 attend the luncheon which includes AFP members and community leaders.  National Philanthropy Day celebrates the great contributions philanthropy, and those who work in the philanthropic process, make to our community. AFP Chapters involve more than 28,000 individuals in celebrating philanthropy each year. 

“STMM is pleased to sponsor the Greater Dallas AFP for the third consecutive year,” said Stan Shipley, President and CEO, STMM’s Family Offices.  “AFP upholds the highest ethical fundraising and, importantly, effective fundraising. We are pleased to support AFP chapters around Texas including Austin, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and the Greater Plains Chapter."

The luncheon will be emceed by longtime supporter Scott Murray. Murray Media, presenting sponsor of the luncheon, produces the luncheon videos featuring the accomplishments of each award recipient. 

Luncheon tickets are $95. Visit afpdallas.org or contact Madeleine Crouch at 972-233-9107, ext. 204, afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.

His family, residents of Lake Highlands, will accept the award on his behalf

Terry Wilson will be honored posthumously with a Special Recognition Award at the32^nd  annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon, “It’s Our Tomorrow,” on Friday, November 10, 2017, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency Dallas, Landmark Ballroom. Hosted by The Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), this annual event brings together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor many of this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes.

Simmons passed away this year at the age of 62. By the time Simmons was in his 20’s, he was already established as a national expert in gift and estate planning. His crowning professional achievement was preserving for charities all across America the gift annuity and other life income plans, through which billions of dollars have been contributed for public good. When these methods of giving were under threat by a massive class-action lawsuit in late 1994, he founded Charitable Accord and worked as lead lobbyist and strategist to protect the interests of charities and nonprofits. He drafted legislation to protect them and camped out in the halls of Congress until legislation was passed – unanimously in both Houses. This legislation included The Charitable Giving Protection Act of 1995 (which amended the Sherman Antitrust Act), The Philanthropy Protection Act of 1995, and The Charitable Donations Antitrust Act of 1997. In late 1997, The NonProfit Times named Simmons, “Nonprofit Executive of the Year” in recognition of his work. 

Simmons worked tirelessly to graduate from Baylor undergraduate and Baylor Law School in a total of five years, and obtained an LLM from the Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in 1984.  Simmons’ experience working with individuals and charitable organizations associated with the Baptist Foundation of Texas led him to Thompson and Knight, LLP, where he became a senior partner with a practice focused on charitable gift planning, exempt organizations law, and estate planning matters.  He served on numerous boards of directors and advisory councils. He was a member of the Texas, Colorado, and New York state bars as well as the United States Supreme Court in 1996. He was regularly named one of The Best Lawyers in America, the Top 100 Attorneys in America by Worth Magazine, and Texas’ Super Lawyers. Simmons was an active member of Royal Lane Baptist Church and a member of Mensa.  His greatest pride and joy resided in his family – his wife Karen, their three children and their families.

"The Greater Dallas AFP's Special Recognition Award is a fitting tribute to Terry's lifelong pursuit of making his community a better place through philanthropic endeavors. For his years of dedication and service to our clients, community and our Firm, we are most thankful." - The People of Thompson & Knight

The luncheon will feature Jason Lee, JD Esq., interim president and CEO, AFP International as the keynote speaker. Lee represents over 33,000 individuals and organizations that raise more than $115 billion in charitable contributions every year around the world for countless causes. He will speak about the impact of charity and philanthropy.

“With Americans giving nearly $400 billion to charity every year, and charities making up 10 percent of the workforce, the charitable sector is playing a bigger role than ever in our future,” said Jason Lee. “The future belongs to all of us as we come together under the banner of philanthropy to improve our communities, our country and our world.”

Lee previously served as general counsel for AFP, where he increased its public visibility and awareness by developing political initiatives regarding fundraising and philanthropic issues. He also chairs the Charitable Giving Coalition, a Washington, DC-based consortium of nonprofit leaders dedicated to raising awareness on Capitol Hill about the value of the charitable deduction and its impact in supporting essential community services. He has successfully coordinated AFP’s efforts to persuade Congress to pass several important giving incentives, including the IRA Rollover.

“National Philanthropy Day is a special day set aside each year to recognize the great work of those who are active in the philanthropic community and make an impact our world,” said Luncheon Chair Meagan Burton.  “We are not only honoring some extraordinary award recipients, but we are also featuring an inspirational keynote speaker, whose presentation will serve as a powerful reminder of how each of us can make a difference.”

South Texas Money Management (STMM), Greater Dallas AFP’s first chapter sponsor, is premier sponsor of the luncheon.

“Dallas citizens are passionate, driven, and generous volunteers and philanthropists, but that’s not enough,” said Jeanie Wyatt, CFA, STMM’s founder and CEO. “We depend on our nonprofits to meet so many of our city’s most basic needs. With over 1,000 nonprofits throughout Dallas, it’s vital that we have a professional organization, like AFP, helping nonprofit fundraising professionals raise more money and do it in effective and ethical ways.”

Additional award recipients to be honored at the luncheon are as follows:

For over 46 years, Outstanding Philanthropists Dr. Henry Estess and Sandra Estess, nominated by Texas Health Resources Foundation, have played an integral role in supporting Texas Health hospitals. Focusing on health and education, the couple has shown exceptional generosity with their time, money, and leadership for the benefit of many others not only through Texas Health, but also Children’s Health, Ronald McDonald House, Educational First Steps, and more.

For more than 110 years, Outstanding Corporation Neiman Marcus, nominated by Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT), has been giving back to the community.  Their philanthropic legacy began in 1907 through founder Herbert Marcus’ generosity to SMU and the Dallas Opera. Today, with a strategic focus on youth arts education, Neiman Marcus Group is dedicated to serving worthwhile causes within communities where their stores and distribution and operational facilities are located (over 100 across the U.S.).

Outstanding Foundation The Hersh Foundation, nominated by Southwestern Medical Foundation and the Resource Center of Dallas, Inc., is committed to enriching and improving the quality of life for all people by supporting initiatives in three categories: education and leadership; mental health research and mental illness prevention; and North Texas cultural organizations. Julie and Ken Hersh began the foundation in 1997 as a way to secure long-term financial commitments to nonprofits in their community. In addition to the providing the lead gift for the Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care at UTSW and their support of the Youth First Program at the Resource Center, the foundation also supports local non-profits such as the Dallas Theater Center, the George W. Bush Institute, Dallas Urban Debate, Galaxy Counseling Center, Dallas Black Dance Theater, Dallas Children’s Theater, KERA and Momentous Institute.  Julie Hersh will receive the TACA Silver Cup Award in March 2018.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Lynn McBee, nominated by The Dallas Opera and Dallas Women’s Foundation, is widely known for committing time, talent and philanthropy to benefit worthy organizations throughout the community. McBee has served a wide array of organizations contributing to the arts, culture, and the overall civic profile of Dallas. She serves on multiple boards, has been the recipient of numerous honors, and is the CEO of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network, educating over 4,600 underserved young women in eight schools across the state of Texas.

Outstanding Fundraising Executive Pagett Gosslee, CFRE, nominated by John Roppolo, has over 30 years of fundraising experience. She has been the director of development and alumni relations for the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas since 2009. She has also raised funds for Mercy Ships, Baylor Health Care System Foundation, and Hope Cottage Adoption Center, where she was the first development director in 1988. A member of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) since 1986, she was awarded her CFRE in 1993, chaired the Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon in 1991 and the DFW Philanthropy Conference in 1999, and served as president of the Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP in 2005.

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Micah Pinson, 13, nominated by Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, has conducted annual toy drives for six years resulting in more than 25,000 toys for children at the hospital. Born missing three fingers on his left hand, Pinson is grateful for the special care he received as a patient and wanted to give back.  He learned that toys were an important part of the hospital’s therapeutic care plan for children and began organizing toy drives and engaging the help of other students, corporations, and volunteers with collection, storage and delivery. He inspires others with his kindness and positive outlook and encourages everyone to celebrate their differences.

"We are excited to present and pay tribute to these outstanding individuals and organizations that have positively impacted our community through their leadership, vision and generosity,” emphasized Burton, Dallas National Philanthropy Day Chair.  “Join us on November 10 for one of the most inspiring luncheons in Dallas!”

The Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP was among the first to begin celebrating National Philanthropy Day in 1981.  Today, over 500 attend the luncheon which includes AFP members and community leaders.  National Philanthropy Day celebrates the great contributions philanthropy, and those who work in the philanthropic process, make to our community. AFP Chapters involve more than 28,000 individuals in celebrating philanthropy each year. 

“STMM is pleased to sponsor the Greater Dallas AFP for the third consecutive year,” said Stan Shipley, President and CEO, STMM’s Family Offices.  “AFP upholds the highest ethical fundraising and, importantly, effective fundraising. We are pleased to support AFP chapters around Texas including Austin, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and the Greater Plains Chapter."

The luncheon will be emceed by longtime supporter Scott Murray. Murray Media, presenting sponsor of the luncheon, produces the luncheon videos featuring the accomplishments of each award recipient. 

Luncheon tickets are $85 ($95 after 11/1), $850 for a table of 10, and $1,250 for a premium table of 10.  For tickets and sponsorships, visit afpdallas.orgorcontactMadeleine Crouch at 972-233-9107, ext. 204, afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.