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Nicole Small

Texas Woman’s University will present the 2025 Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award to Nicole Small at the Dallas Leadership Luncheon, set for Thurs., Mar. 6, 2025, at noon at The Arts District Mansion in Dallas.

In addition to the Leadership Award presentation, the luncheon will also recognize the 2025 Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholars: Christiana Parra (College of Professional Education); Kiara Whitney (College of Nursing); Jenny Reynolds (College of Health Sciences); Savitha Sundar (College of Health Sciences); Bradaisea Ridge-Law (College of Business); and Sarah “Abi” Rainey (College of Arts & Science).

“Nicole’s vision and leadership have enhanced the lives of thousands of North Texas residents, and what I love the most is her efforts to highlight the magnitude of women’s contributions to STEM fields,” said Texas Woman’s Chancellor Carine Feyten. “We are delighted to have the opportunity to honor someone whose life and work so perfectly embodies the spirit of the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award and aligns with our strategic imperative at Texas Woman’s University to double the number of STEM opportunities for our students.”

About Nicole Small:

Small is the CEO of LH Capital, Inc. and Lyda Hill Philanthropies, where she leads efforts to fund groundbreaking innovations in science and nature, empower non-profits, and uplift local communities. Since 2014, she has overseen both organizations’ strategic direction, investments, and philanthropic initiatives. Her work spans a wide range, from advancing cancer-fighting biotech to supporting conservation efforts.

One of the spotlight achievements in Small’s current role is her co-founding of IF/THEN®, an initiative to inspire girls and women to pursue STEM careers through hands-on learning experiences and the promotion of positive portrayals of women in STEM fields.

From 2001-2013, Small played a critical role in the creation of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, merging several museums into a single institution and raising more than $200 million in support of the museum’s formation. She also served as the museum’s inaugural Eugene McDermott Chief Executive Officer.

Earlier in her career, Small founded a tech startup, served as an entrepreneur in residence for a California-based business incubator, and was a McKinsey & Company analyst.

Small holds a degree from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management. She is a member of The Dallas Assembly, YPO, Charter 100, and the International Women’s Forum.  She also serves on the boards of Southwestern Medical Foundation, The Hockaday School, UTSW President's Advisory Board, and Texas 2036. She resides in Dallas with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs.

Small remarked, "I am truly honored to stand alongside the remarkable individuals and organizations that have received this award, all of whom have made a significant positive impact in North Texas. Through the IF/THEN Initiative, we are dedicated to empowering the next generation of women to pursue education and careers in STEM. Seeing young girls connect with positive role models and ignite their interest in STEM careers makes our team’s efforts worthwhile. Lyda Hill Philanthropies is also committed to advancing life sciences and biotech research to advance the world to a healthier population, and the innovative work being done by the companies at BioLabs and Bridge Labs at Pegasus Park is inspiring and remarkable.”

She added, “The Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award shines a light on not just individuals but on the contributions they have made to our community. I stand on the shoulders of great leaders, and those around me, who supported me in my opportunity to be involved in this work."

About the Luncheon:

Established in 2002, the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award is presented annually at the Dallas Leadership Luncheon to a Dallas leader who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life in the community and to furthering the importance of education.

The award honors the contributions of TWU alumna, donor, and board of regents member Virginia Chandler Dykes (1930-2022) as an outstanding healthcare provider whose professional and civic achievements represent a lifetime committed to helping others. Recent award recipients include Abby and Todd Williams (2024), Lucy Billingsley (2023), Arcilia Acosta (2022), Cynt Marshall (2021), and Jennifer Staubach Gates (2020).Here’s more about Virginia Chandler Dykes.

Proceeds from the luncheon benefit Texas Woman’s graduate student scholarships.

Tables, tickets and sponsorships: Individual tickets and couple tickets for the Dallas Leadership Luncheon are $175 and $300 respectively; table sponsorships begin at $1,500. To purchase, visithttps://giving.twu.edu/DallasLuncheon

To learn more about the luncheon or request a sponsorship brochure, call 940.898.3870 or visittwu.edu/DallasLeadership

HANDOUT IMAGE (Nicole Small): HERE

ABOUT TWU

Texas Woman’s University is the nation’s largest woman-focused university system with campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Founded in 1901, TWU has built a reputation on contributions in nursing, healthcare, education, the arts and sciences, and business. TWU’s inclusive culture prioritizes experiential learning, leadership, service, discovery, and health and well-being, and national media have recognized the university as a top college for student-parents, veterans, and social mobility. In 2023, TWU publicly launched Dream Big, a $125 million comprehensive fundraising effort to support innovative programs, capital projects, student scholarships, and faculty endowments. To learn more about the campaign or the university, visitdreambig.twu.edu ortwu.edu, or connect with TWU onFacebook@TexasWomansUniversity,Instagram@txwomans,Twitter@txwomans, andLinkedIn@texaswomansuniversity.

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Palak Patel

Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) is proud to announce Palak Patel as the 2025 JA Dallas Student of the Year. A senior at Plano East Senior High School, Patel was selected from a competitive pool of more than 100 applicants for her outstanding academic achievements, leadership and commitment to community impact. As part of this prestigious recognition, Patel will receive the Sandi Smith Scholarship, a $10,000 award to support her higher education journey in college and pursuit of a career in business.

Patel has been involved with JA Dallas as a participant in the JA Career Speaker Series and as an intern with JA Dallas. In her application essay, she described the lessons she learned as an intern: “I found myself diving into projects that challenged me to think in new ways and take on responsibilities I had never expected. It wasn’t just about tasks and deadlines; it was about learning how to navigate the complex world of business and understanding the value of making smart, informed decisions.”

As the JA Dallas Student of the Year, Patel will play a key role in the upcoming Dallas Business Hall of Fame, presented by Ryan, LLC, on February 22, 2025, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. During the event, she will address an audience of business and community leaders, sharing her inspiring journey and future aspirations. The student will also be recognized at the Laureate Reception, an exclusive gathering honoring this year’s distinguished Hall of Fame Laureates: Allie Beth Allman, Curtis C. Farmer and Dale Petroskey.

The Dallas Business Hall of Fame benefiting Junior Achievement of Dallas celebrates the best and brightest in the Dallas business community who have made a meaningful impact in the region. Now in its 27th year, the gala raises essential funds to support Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.

“Each year, the JA Dallas Student of the Year reminds us of the incredible potential of our young people,” said Chris LaTurno, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Dallas. “Palak Patel exemplifies the qualities of leadership, perseverance and ambition that we strive to instill in every student who participates in our programs. We are proud to honor Palak at this year’s Dallas Business Hall of Fame and are excited to see her future unfold.”

The Sandi Smith Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who has participated in Junior Achievement programs, with applicants evaluated on academic achievement, leadership and a personal essay. This scholarship underscores Junior Achievement’s commitment to fostering education as a pathway to opportunity.

About the Dallas Business Hall of Fame 

Since its inception, the Dallas Business Hall of Fame has raised more than $5 million to support Junior Achievement of Dallas’ mission of inspiring and preparing young people for success. The annual gala celebrates the achievements of Dallas’ most influential business leaders while raising critical funds to provide students with learning experiences in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. Through these programs, JA Dallas has reached over 700,000 local students, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to become the next generation of leaders. For more information on the event, visit jadallasbusinesshalloffame.org.

About Junior Achievement of Dallas

JA Dallas prepares students for the business of life. The nonprofit organization equips young people with hands-on learning experiences in financial literacy, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship so they can thrive in our complex world and workplaces.

Last year, more than 2,500 business and community volunteers helped lead JA’s proven learning experiences across Dallas, Collin, Denton and Kaufman counties, engaging more than 100,000 students in real-world skills that life and employers demand. JA alums are more likely to have a college degree, make higher earnings and start businesses. For more information, visit www.jadallas.org

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Students at the conference

On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, more than 1,000 teen members from across North Texas will gather at the third annual Texas Peer-to-Peer Youth Conference to connect and learn from others about how to break the stigma of discussing mental health and to provide help and hope for their fellow students and communities. In its third year, this peer-to-peer conference sold out the first day of registration. Students will come from 29 school districts, private and charter school systems throughout North Texas and spend a day learning about how to help their peers through inspirational talks, interactive breakout sessions and mentoring.

The conference features a day of dynamic speakers interacting with conference attendees from across North Texas. It runs 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at the Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 900 E. Sanford St., Arlington, TX 76011. The conference is presented by a collaboration of Grace Loncar Foundation, Grant Halliburton Foundation and The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation, nonprofits founded in memory of loved ones lost to suicide. 

Peer-to-peer groups are the eyes and ears of a school, students trained to watch for at-risk peers, provide friendship, identify warning signs and seek help from adults. The groups work with school advisors to train students identified by their classmates as trustworthy peers. Through evidence-based training modules, these members are empowered to be a safe contact for their classmates. Peer-to-peer members are not taught to act as counselors, but rather, are educated on how to recognize signs of suicidal ideation, and how to properly and respectfully report this to an adult.

Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said, “It’s a privilege to co-host this conference for students who are helping their classmates through service, hope and kindness. We want to keep our young people healthy, hopeful and here, and these peer-to-peer teams are important in helping us do that.”

Currently, there are more than 2,500 peer-to-peer members on more than 200 campuses across North Texas. These students were invited to the conference to connect with members from other schools around the state, build a network of support and learn and collaborate with one another.

“Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10-24 in Texas,” said Matt Vereecke, CEO of The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation. “This conference provides these members an opportunity to learn more about how they can provide a safe and supportive space at their schools for students struggling with mental health and help reverse this staggering statistic.”

The conference sponsors include Lyda Hill Philanthropies (Hope Sponsor); Faith, Fight, Finish and Vincent Genovese Memorial Foundation (Kindness Sponsors); UT Southwestern (Encouragement Sponsors); Children’s Medical Center and Eating Recovery Center (Friend Sponsor).

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Opportunity Center Location

First Presbyterian Church of Dallas (FPC Dallas) will acquire CitySquare’s Opportunity Center and relocate the programs and services of its community ministry, The Stewpot, which serves those experiencing homelessness and poverty, to the 53,000-square-foot facility. The Stewpot and CitySquare are longtime partners with a shared commitment to meeting the basic needs of individuals in the community and helping them improve their lives.

With the steadfast support of donors and in response to community needs, The Stewpot’s programs have tripled in size in recent years, and the ministry has outgrown its current space. When CitySquare announced earlier this year that it would cease operations and sell its property by the end of the year, the church, on behalf of The Stewpot, engaged in active conversations with CitySquare about acquiring its property. CitySquare’s board of directors voted unanimously to accept The Stewpot’s proposal after a competitive and equitable process to select the best partner.

For several months, the church’s leadership has been working through due diligence, building inspections, environmental testing and detailed plans for the program transition. Members of FPC Dallas met on Sunday, Dec. 8, for a congregational vote and approved the acquisition. The closing is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 13. The Stewpot will begin moving into the new space later this month. As a part of the acquisition, The Stewpot will continue two of CitySquare’s core programs: its Food Pantry and its Neighbor Resource Center. Resource navigators at the Neighborhood Resource Center help people with housing options and other resources, including SNAP, WIC, healthcare, financial assistance, mental health services and more.

“This new facility will allow us to better deliver our programs and continue to support the 12,000 people served annually by CitySquare’s Neighbor Resource Center and Food Pantry programs,” said Brenda Snitzer, executive director of The Stewpot. “We are thankful for this opportunity to maintain vital services for the CitySquare community and grow the impact of The Stewpot. As we move forward in faith, we are grateful for continued support from funders and donors as we raise the dollars for this significant undertaking that will allow us to help more Dallas neighbors in need.”

CitySquare’s property, at the corner of Malcolm X Boulevard and I-30, is located only a mile from The Stewpot’s current facility on Young Street, across the street from the church. With this acquisition, The Stewpot will move its operations and offices, while continuing to serve more than 1,000 meals daily at The Bridge downtown.

“You can’t tell the church’s story without talking about The Stewpot,” said Rev. Amos Disasa, senior pastor of FPC Dallas. “We are excited to embark on this new journey on the eve of our 50th anniversary serving our neighbors downtown. The Stewpot is a community ministry, binding us together to love and care for one another.”

In 2025, the Stewpot will celebrate 50 years of positive impact and helping people break free from poverty and homelessness. The theme of “50  Years of Loving Our Neighbors” will be a centerpiece of its celebration throughout the year, marked by several milestone events. Since 1975, The Stewpot has served more than 8 million meals and has provided housing, education, stabilization, enrichment and, most of all, love to Dallas neighbors in need of support.

For more information and to support the work of The Stewpot, visit thestewpot.org.

Founded in 1856, First Presbyterian Church of Dallas (FPC Dallas), located in downtown Dallas, is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination. Together with its ministries—The Stewpot, FPC Day School, Encore Park and the FPC Dallas Foundation—it seeks the transformation of our city as ministers of reconciliation, peace and justice. For more information, visit fpcdallas.org.

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The Hope Party 2024 Hope Party Co-chairs Steve Noviello, Danielle Hunter and Reed Robertson

Grant Halliburton Foundation held its 15th annual Hope Party on November 22 at The Statler in downtown Dallas. More than 530 supporters attended the organization’s fundraiser, which raised a record-breaking $570,000 through sponsorships, tickets, live and silent auctions and a wine and spirits pull. Proceeds from the event support the Foundation’s work providing mental health education, resources and support to North Texas youth and their families.

The evening began with a welcome reception underwritten by Texas Capital where guests sipped on cocktails and bid on silent auction items. They also purchased a chance at the popular wine and spirits pull and posed at the photo booth underwritten by Sewell. The event’s top sponsors were invited to the VIP Lounge to enjoy small bites and a private bar, underwritten by Jennifer and Tom Karol.

The program kicked off with an electrifying performance by Clover the Violinist, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Guests were welcomed into an elegantly decorated ballroom adorned with beautifully curated floral arrangements provided by Décor and Floral Underwriter, Concepto. 

Jenny Anchondo, CW 33 news anchor and host, served as this year’s emcee and welcomed guests.

Co-chairs included Danielle Hunter, Steve Noviello and Reed Robertson.  

Noviello, who is also a Grant Halliburton Foundation board member, said, “You have the power to change the trajectory of someone’s life by giving hope. So, give generously because I want you to remember this: before Grant Halliburton was a foundation, he was a teenage boy who needed hope.”

Robertson added, “Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, the Christopher Barkley Foundation. Your unwavering support for the past two years in a row means the world to us. And a heartfelt thank you to all our sponsors—at every level. You are the backbone of tonight’s success. I also want to recognize our inaugural retail sponsors. Your unwavering support further proves that retail has the biggest heart.”

Hunter told her personal story of her family dealing with mental health. “I wish the resources that Grant Halliburton Foundation provides to families had been available to our family. I truly believe that the organization can save lives and break cycles, transforming generations.”

Father Nate Bostain, head chaplain at the Episcopal School of Dallas, gave the invocation. Then, everyone enjoyed dinner while listening to Clover the Violinist play.

Following dinner, Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, spoke. “Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of Grant Halliburton, who took his life when he was 19. This month marks the 19th anniversary of his passing, and his mom, Vanita, recently reached out to our staff, with a heartfelt message. She said, ‘Grant has now been gone for as many years as he was here. I appreciate so much the work we are all doing to pull people back from the edge.’”

Amy McCloskey, Foundation co-founder, spoke next. “Grant Halliburton Foundation was born out of the pain of losing a son and my brother, but it is fueled by the desire to save others from such devastating loss. We set out to help other families connect the dots and find the resources their loved ones so desperately need. I hope you leave here tonight with a renewed sense of urgency to get involved, to give where you can, to find what is yours to do in this work.”

The live auction raised $75,000 with luxury vacations to Tulum, Sonoma and Aspen; a Chef Kent Rathburn culinary experience; a luxury Dallas staycation and Highland Park Village shopping spree; an American Airlines suite for a Dallas Mavericks or Dallas Stars game; and an AURA band performance.

The final live auction item surprised guests as the Halliburton family donated a piece of Grant Halliburton’s artwork, “Haute Contour,” to the auction fetching $14,000.

Following the Raise Hope fund-a-need, which raised more than $140,000, the auction concluded, and people hit the dance floor dancing to the music of AURA by Scott Michaels.  

Guests were treated to warm mini donuts on their way out while waiting for valet, underwritten by Mindful Health.

A special thanks to the 2024 Hope Party sponsors and underwriters:

Platinum Sponsor: Christopher Barkley Foundation

Ruby Sponsors: Kirkland & Ellis, Khaite, Lockton, Maria and Jock Stafford, Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Emerald Sponsors:  Shelley and Jeff Becker, Karen and Mark Carney/Judy and Perch Nelson, The Hirsch Family Foundation, Danielle Hunter and Shane Sealy, Kimberly Kimbriel, Natalie and Duwayne Miller, Carolyn and Karl Rathjen and Tom Ford

Sapphire Sponsor: Diane Blumin, Jess Bass Bolander and Laura McCallan, Doug Bedner and Steve Noviello/T.J. Griffin and Reed Robertson, Matthew Gobay, Karen Goetting, Sharon and Kevin Hall, Paige and Brian Lauten, Leigh and Scott Parks, Brandy and Jon Ricketts, Marcia Simpson and Keith Gruenberg, Lynn and Kevin Wisdom, Lucy and Don Witte, Berry Corporation, Carolina Herrera, CohnReznick, Eubank Hutson & Associates, Front Porch Marketing, Haynes Boone, Perkins Coie, Simkhai, Taylor Counseling Group, Tennyson Advisory Group and Vinson & Elkins

Young Professional Sponsors: Campbell/Mitchell and Legacy Mutual Mortgage

Media Sponsor: PaperCity

UNDERWRITERS

Sponsor Gift: Blow Salon

Floral and Décor: Concepto

Patron Party: The Conservatory

VIP Lounge: Jennifer and Tom Karol

Late-Night Treat: Mindful Health

Photobooth: Sewell

Welcome Reception: Texas Capital

Table Gift: Renew Beauty

Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness through a variety of avenues including education, conferences, collaboration and encouragement. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to more than 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals. The Foundation also offers Here For Texas, which includes HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

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TWU Kinesiology Team Makiyah Brittmon, Josey Salazar, Erin Rocha (Team Lead), Hannah Schnettler, Karolyn Skoby

When it comes to space flight challenges, Texas Woman’s kinesiology students always seem to have the best solutions.

For the fifth time in the last seven years, a team of Texas Woman’s undergraduate kinesiology students took the top overall prize at a NASA-sponsored statewide design competition. 

The Texas Woman’s team, dubbed Team Pleiades, was the only kinesiology department and the only all-female team represented at the two-day competition, which wrapped up Nov. 14 just outside of Houston. The majority of the 19 college teams in the competition are engineering students.

 

“It’s a huge bonus to have an all-female group with a STEM focus,” said Rhett Rigby, interim director of the School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology and the design team’s faculty advisor. “It was the only health-focused project … ours had one of the most direct applications, most direct connections, to life in space.” 

 

The first-place finish continues a successful run for TWU’s School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology’s internship team. Teams have won the competition four times in the last seven semesters, including last year’s fall team. Over the last 13 semesters that Texas Woman’s teams have entered the competition, they’ve finished in the top four 11 times.

 

For the last three years, TWU teams have focused on the topic of mitigating muscle atrophy in long-duration space flight for their projects at the Texas Space Grant Consortium Design Challenge. This semester’s team discovered new ways to address the loss of skeletal muscle mass in astronauts, specifically in the lower limbs. 

 

Their solution was to design and test a compact blood flow restriction device that can be implemented during resistance training workouts in microgravity. 

 

In addition to the overall first-place finish, the five seniors took first place in peer review and presentation and second place in the poster/best model category. Team members Erin Rocha (team lead), Hannah Schnettler, Karolyn Skoby, Josey Salazar and Makiyah Brittmon received scholarships from TSGC for their project. 

 

“To have a showing like this, I’m incredibly proud of the team,” said Rigby. “They’ve put in thousands of hours worth of work to this combined, and it’s nice to see the fruits of their labor come to fruition.” 

 

The TSGC Design Challenge gives students an opportunity to come up with a solution to help solve a research objective of importance to NASA. Teams have an option of choosing their own space-related challenge, and the last several TWU teams have gone that route, honing in on the muscle deterioration.

 

Lengthy space flights wreak havoc on astronauts’ muscle health. Weight-bearing skeletal muscles, such as the quadriceps and soleus, are especially prone to atrophy because of their larger size. The TWU team cited research that shows there is a 20% decrease in the size of these muscles in the first five to 11 days of space flight.

 

The Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 teams created exercise devices for astronauts to use in space flight. This semester’s team created a blood-flow restriction device (nicknamed HALO for Hypertrophic Aide by Limb Occlusion) uniquely designed for resistance training in space flight.

 

Blood-flow restriction is a technique that uses a cuff to partially reduce blood flow to a limb by applying pressure to major leg and arm arteries while exercising. It is used in physical therapy rehabilitation to help people train or recover from injuries. When using this method, users exercise at a low intensity level, mimicking the effects of a high intensity workout.

 

TWU’s prototype resembles a large blood pressure cuff. Instead of being strapped to your arm, this cuff would go on the upper thigh. Other components of the device include an airbag, a Direct Current motor, rechargeable battery, motor board and microcontroller. The team coded the HALO device to inflate the airbag to the desired pressure in order to achieve the partial reduced blood flow. 

 

With this device, astronauts could lift smarter, not harder. While exercising, they would be creating oxygen deprived muscles, which would stimulate muscle gain with lower weights. This lower load is also less impactive on joints while also lowering recovery times and enhancing muscle recovery.

“It’s a bit surreal to take teams with no prior experience in some of these areas related to engineering and within a few months, we are able to compete at the highest undergraduate level,” Rigby said.

 

 

 

 

 

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Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains

Guided by research that identifies the barriers to women’s economic security and success, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF), collectively with its donors, giving circle supporters and philanthropic partners invested $6 million in 2023-24 to advance its mission. Of that total, The Foundation distributed $4.9 million in grants to women- and girl-serving organizations, including $876,540 to 23 nonprofits impacting approximately 13,000 women and girls in North Texas.  

Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, said, “As a statewide organization, Texas Women’s Foundation believes in the power of collective philanthropy to catalyze change. Since 1985, we’ve invested nearly $85 million toward achieving our vision for an equitable society in which women and girls can fully participate. And while we’ve made great progress, Texas women and girls have never needed us more! We are grateful for the donors, supporters and partners who share our vision and make our work possible.”

North Texas Community Grantmaking:

Through its Community Grant Cycle, TXWF awarded $867,540 to 23 nonprofit organizations. 

Dallas County:

Annie's Place: Child care

Braswell Child Development Center: Child care

Community Council of Greater Dallas: Cancer Care

Connections Multiplied Too: Leadership development

Hopeful Solution: Transitional housing  

ImmSchools: Leadership development

The Lullaby House: Transitional housing

Mi Escuelita Preschool: Child care

New Friends New Life: Legal services

Our Friends Place: Transitional housing

Wholly Informed Sex Ed: Health – sex education

Young Leaders Strong City: Leadership development

Irving:

Irving Healthcare Foundation: Women’s health

Richardson:

Methodist Richardson Medical Center Foundation: Breast health

Denton County:

Opening Doors International Services: Legal services

North Texas (Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant Counties and surrounding):

Bridge Breast Network: Breast health

LiftFund Inc.: Entrepreneurship

Lone Star Justice Alliance: Just Sentencing Initiative

Rosa es Rojo: Health & well-being

SER-Jobs for Progress National Inc.: Entrepreneurship

Tarrant County:

Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Inc.: Math tutoring

Mercy Clinic of Fort Worth: Women’s health

Texas Health Resources Foundation: Women’s health

To learn more about Texas Women’s Foundation’s grants and for a complete grantee list, visit txwf.org/grants.

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

As Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) nears its 40th year, it is clear that now more than ever is the time to create more equitable communities to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld. TXWF raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $6 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and strategic/educational initiatives. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $85 million in Texas women and girls.

The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and educational initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls survive and thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a gendered impact portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

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SELECT COMMUNITY GRANTS

HOUSING – TRANSITIONAL HOUSING

The Lullaby House

Located in Dallas, The Lullaby House provides community care and residential support to pregnant and parenting teens in the foster care system. In 2021, the Texas Department of Family and Protective services reported that 380 Texas youth in foster care were pregnant. Five facilities in the state provide residential services for the teens and their babies (total 24 beds in the state).

An already complicated and traumatic situation is exacerbated for an already vulnerable teen. TXWF provided a $40,000 grant to support this organization.

"The grant has really helped us to increase our effectiveness with wrap around services.”

-Alexandrea Crutcher-Horsley, Executive Director, The Lullaby House

 

HEALTH

Mercy Clinic of Fort Worth

Serving the 76104 ZIP code in Fort Worth, the ZIP code with the lowest life expectancy for women in the state (UTSW 2019), a $40,000 Texas Women’s Foundation community grant supports hiring a Community Health Worker for La Clínica de Mujeres (Women’s Clinic). The Community Health Worker, hired from the community they serve, is uniquely equipped to break down barriers of access to care, and to maximize health outcomes for women.

“It is just very, very important for us to educate our patients. Just as much as they need us, we need them to understand what is going on with their health, because they are the ones taking care of themselves. So it is important for us to have Community Health Workers here with us to make sure there is no gap in the communication between the provider and our patients.

– Rosa Montalvo, Patient Care Coordinator, Mercy Clinic

 

LEADERSHIP & EDUCATION

Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains

Serving two of the lowest performing schools in Fort Worth ISD, a Texas Women’s Foundation grant of $15,000 expands the Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains’ (GS-TOP) piloted Math Tutoring Program to benefit 3rd and 5th grade girls at two Title I elementary schools. GS-TOP aims to introduce girls of every age to STEM as the U.S. will need more STEM professionals. GS-TOP’s goal is to reframe challenges into possibilities.

“We can make that math experience a lot of fun for them and that it is not a burden, and they can see that it is easy to learn when you are having fun!”

-Becky Burton, CEO, Girl Scouts of the Texas Oklahoma Plains

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Tricia and Scott Guenther of Lyric Stage

Lyric Stage, a theatre company dedicated to the development and preservation of the musical, has appointed two key members of its staff to new roles. Tricia Guenther has been named Patron Services & Co-Artistic Director, and Scott Guenther has been appointed Managing & Co-Artistic Director. They have been in other roles at Lyric Stage.

On behalf of the Lyric Stage board, Producer Catherine Carpenter Cox said, “I’m proud to announce the appointment of Tricia and Scott, a husband-and-wife team, to newly defined roles at Lyric Stage to better serve the company, our actors and actresses and those who attend our productions. Together, Tricia and Scott bring an unmatched set of skills and cooperation to the theatre scene in Dallas. Their decades of experience will help address artistic and fiduciary responsibilities for a bright future at Lyric Stage.”

Tricia has been a choreographer for various dance companies and an artistic director of her studio for more than 30 years. She also brings a vast array of artistic skills to the company. She will handle the education and outreach aspects at Lyric. In addition, she will also oversee patron service roles and front-of-house operations.

Scott has been an artist, designer, technical director, and business manager for theatre and dance companies for more than three decades. His experience on the business side, combined with his artistic skills, brings Lyric Stage much-needed direction for a sustainable future. He will take the role of managing director and share the artistic decisions with Tricia and producer, Catherine Carpenter Cox.

Tricia remarked, “I was born to help people, and there is no better feeling than watching folks light up when they reach a milestone. Through Lyric Stage, I can reach out to the community and help performers and other organizations that want to feel the same.  We have a real chance to connect throughout the DFW community and enable even more people to make Lyric Stage a part of their family.”

Scott added, “Lyric Stage is a great company with a proud history of doing wonderful work in North Texas. Our goal is to honor that legacy and to modernize the company to allow for long-term growth and sustainability.  Remembering our purpose, dedication to the development and preservation of the musical, and moving forward for a healthy future.”

Lyric Stage will open its 31st season on November 29 with Plaid Tidings.

About Lyric Stage:

Lyric Stage, a Dallas-based 501c3 not-for-profit professional musical theatre company, was established in 1993 with the mission of the development and preservation of the musical, a unique art form. In the last 31 years, Lyric Stage has produced more than 125 productions, which include 21 world-premiere musicals and 2 Off-Broadway shows. For more information, visit www.lyricstage.org.

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Chris LaTurno, Allie Beth Allman, Curtis Farmer, D
Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) will honor three distinguished leaders at the annual Dallas Business Hall of Fame, to be held February 22, 2025, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. The fundraising gala will celebrate the significant contributions of Allie Beth Allman, Curtis C. Farmer and Dale Petroskey to the Dallas business community.
 
The Dallas Business Hall of Fame benefiting Junior Achievement of Dallas celebrates the best and brightest in the Dallas business community who have made a meaningful impact in our region. Now in its 27th year, the gala also raises funds to support Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.
 
“Each of these Laureates has made a tremendous impact on our region,” said Chris LaTurno, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Dallas. “They are business icons who exemplify the spirit of giving back through their companies and in the community. By recognizing their accomplishments, we ensure their legacy will inspire and shape the leaders of tomorrow.”
 
Allie Beth Allman, Executive Director of the Board and Founder of Allie Beth Allman & Associates, has been a powerhouse in luxury residential real estate for over 30 years, and her name is synonymous with customer service. She has been on the Top Ten list of Dallas agents since her arrival on the residential real estate scene and Dallas County's Top Producer, competing with over 7,000 agents for three consecutive years. Allman’s team of agents is consistently top-ranked in Park Cities sales and has been recognized as the most productive single office in Dallas. 
 
Curtis C. Farmer, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Comerica Incorporated and Comerica Bank, is a leader in the banking industry. With more than three decades of experience, including key roles at Wachovia Corporation, Farmer has guided Comerica to new heights since assuming the role of CEO in 2019. He serves on numerous boards, including the SMU Cox School of Business Executive Board and the Wake Forest University Board, and is an active member of the Bank Policy Institute and Dallas Citizens Council.
 
Dale Petroskey is the President and CEO of the Dallas Regional Chamber, which plays a vital role in strengthening the region’s economy. Under his leadership, the Chamber was named National Chamber of the Year in 2022. Petroskey’s extensive career spans from his time as Assistant White House Press Secretary to President Ronald Reagan, to serving as President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. He serves on several boards, including SMU’s Lyle School of Engineering, EducateDallas, the Dallas Mavericks Advisory Council and the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation.
 
Since its inception, the Dallas Business Hall of Fame has raised more than $5 million. Those funds have helped JA of Dallas bring 700,000 local students learning experiences in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship, plus three million hours with corporate and community volunteers. These experiences are designed to empower today’s students to become the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to thrive. 
 
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information on the event, visit jadallasbusinesshalloffame.org.
 
About Junior Achievement of Dallas
Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. Over the last 70 years, the nonprofit organization has reached nearly 1 million students across the region with learning experiences in financial literacy, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship. Last year, JA Dallas brought more than 119,664 students hands-on, immersive experiences to help them build the skillsets and mindsets needed to achieve and lead. Corporate and community volunteers shared over 513,007 hours of their time to mentor and inspire these young people during experiences delivered in 78 school partners and with six nonprofit partners. Research shows that JA Alumni are more likely to have a college degree, feel confident managing money, have career success and have started a business as an adult. For more information, visit www.jadallas.org.
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Women's Equality Day Attendees take a photo together at Dallas City Hall. Photo credit: Texas Women’s Foundation/Brandon R. Gibson

On August 28th, the League of Women Voters of Dallas held Women's Equality Day, marking the 104th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment at Dallas City Hall. This year's theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” reflected its commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women in the community. Though the actual date of Women’s Equality Day is August 26, the event is held on the Wednesday closest to the date for Dallas City Hall to best accommodate the program.      

Sandy Thornton, League of Women Voters of Dallas president, welcomed everyone. Bryan Adams High School JROTC Color Guard presented the colors. AJ T. Cole recognized sponsors and supporters (see list at end).

Dallas City Council Member Gay Donnell Willis welcomed the 100 attendees and read a resolution with her colleagues including CM Paula Blackmon, CM Jaynie Schultz and CM Kathy Stewart. Other members in attendance were CM Cara Mendelsohn, CM Tennell Atkins, CM Omar Narvaez.

Texas State Representative Jessica Gonzalez (District 104) gave remarks, followed by Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown sharing a resolution.

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White was the keynote speaker. “Thank you for showing up. Like the suffragists who came before us and all of us who continue the fight for women’s equality, showing up for women and girls is THE single most important thing we can do.”

She added, “According to my dad, I was always finding causes to fight for and always organizing from the first-ever high school homecoming parade at Habersham Central High School – in rural North Georgia – an actual parade, to a five-day tennis marathon that raised $75K for the American Cancer Society AND broke a Guinness World Record. I was 24 at the time.”

White remarked, “How it is possible that in the great state of Texas, with our robust economy – the strongest in the nation – and by some reports, the 8th strongest in the world, how can it be that we rank 47th out of 50 states across 25 indicators of women’s economic security and well-being?” She added that more work needs to be done and announced that Texas Women’s Foundation will soon publish its 5th edition of Economic Issues in Texas in October to share more research. Those wanting to learn more can visit https://txwf.org/.

Special thanks to sponsors: AAUW Dallas, Texas; BURRs; Gabriela Pataro, Joan M. Ridley, Judith Shure, League of Women Voters of Collin County; Mollie Mossman, Future-World Institute; National Council of Jewish Women Greater Dallas; Pamela Tilford Mahomes; Sandy Thornton; Susybelle Lyons Gosslee; The Preston Hollow Democrats; United Nations Association Dallas Chapter; Women’s Council of Dallas County.

About the League of Women Voters of Dallas

The League of Women Voters of Dallas is a nonpartisan organization committed to empowering voters and defending democracy. With a vision of a democracy where every person has the desire, right, knowledge, and confidence to participate in the election process, the League promotes voting as a fundamental right that should be available to all eligible voters. Through advocacy and educational programs, the League of Women Voters of Dallas aims to achieve elections that are free, fair, and accessible. For more information, visit www.lwvdallas.org/

About Texas Women’s Foundation

By working with women, families and communities, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) is building a stronger, more equitable Texas. TXWF raises funding from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $7.1 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through timely research, advocacy, grants and strategic/educational initiatives. Since inception in 1985, TXWF has invested more than $80 million in Texas women and girls.

The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and educational initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls survive and thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement and has deployed 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a gendered impact portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now