Dwell with Dignity, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through design, celebrated the grand reveal of its largest project to date: a library transformation at Dallas ISD’s Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy (BOMLA). The Eula Harris-Williams Library Media Center, which has been transformed into a vibrant hub for learning and growth, reflects the vision of more than 400 students who shared their ideas for the transformation.

“This library is a testament to what thoughtful design can achieve and the heart of what our work is about,” said Teresa Charnock, executive director of Dwell with Dignity. “It’s been an incredible honor to help bring the vision of the BOMLA community to life. Their creativity and insight have shaped a space that will serve as a foundation for learning, connection and growth for years to come.”

Members of the BOMLA community, including students, educators and local leaders, gathered to celebrate the library’s transformation. The event included remarks from Nakia Douglas, founding principal of BOMLA, and Chris Blackburn of Texas Counter Fitters, lead sponsor, as well as performances by the BOMLA band and a tour of the transformed spaces.

Renovated spaces include:

• Library: A welcoming environment with updated seating for reading, studying and group collaboration.
• Campus Community Hub: A space where students can access uniforms, school supplies, toiletries and food, underwritten by United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
• Podcast Room: A creative studio for students to record and share their stories.
• Student Success Center: A private space for college and career counseling, helping first-generation college-bound students prepare for the future.
• Historical and Art Center: A showcase of Oak Cliff’s rich history through photography and student artwork.
• STEM Learning Space: Featuring stones, gems and minerals donated by Texas Counter Fitters, this hands-on area introduces students to geology and STEM learning.

“This library is more than a transformation – it’s a testament to the potential within our students and the power of their voices,” said Nakia Douglas, founding principal of BOMLA. “It’s a space where their ideas come to life, and they can find the tools, inspiration and support to pursue their dreams with confidence.”

The transformation of the BOMLA library was a collaborative effort between Dwell with Dignity, BOMLA and key sponsors including Texas Counter Fitters, lead sponsor, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the State Fair of Texas. Their generous contributions and commitment to the BOMLA community helped turn the vision for this library into a reality.

ABOUT DWELL WITH DIGNITY:
Founded in 2009, Dwell with Dignity is a Dallas-based nonprofit with a mission to transform lives through design. By providing and installing interiors for family homes and community spaces for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, the transformations inspire people to lead their best lives and thrive in a safe, functional and beautiful environment. Dwell with Dignity has completed more than 250 home design projects and 50 community spaces, and in 2024 the organization served more than 3,000 people through their home and community projects. The nonprofit is backed by the support of over 100 designers, 1,100 dedicated volunteers and 150 sponsors and donors. Learn more at www.dwellwithdignity.org.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES:

Chris Blackburn, Founder and Owner, Texas Counter Fitters:
“The young men of Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy are incredibly impressive. They are dedicated to their studies and shine outside the classroom as well, demonstrating talents in music, photography and art. We understand the power of having a beautiful space to inspire these young minds. That’s why we wanted to partner with Dwell with Dignity to transform the library AND create a brand new podcast room for the boys to tell their stories.”

Jessica Vitela, Manager, Community Relations and Events, State Fair of Texas:
“At the State Fair of Texas, our mission extends far beyond 24 days. We are deeply committed to strengthening our community through education, growth and opportunity. Supporting projects like this library reflects our dedication to creating spaces where students can learn, dream and prepare for a brighter future.”

Ashley Douglas, Vice President, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas / Southern Dallas Thrives / PepsiCo:
“United Way Metropolitan’s Southern Dallas Thrives initiative is excited to expand our campus-based Community Hub resources and services to Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy. Designed to holistically support sector scholars through targeted academic engagement and resources that help families thrive, we are thrilled to increase this network of support on the campus. Through this collaborative approach alongside community partners, we are committed to ensuring that our students remain positioned to continue to thrive.

“This transformation of the library space will provide new motivation, inspiration and opportunities for all of our stakeholders. Not to mention, it will create new resources for increasing levels of success for the BOMLA community. The possibilities are endless. Thanks go out to Dwell with Dignity and the United Way for empowering the future of BOMLA.”

Mr. D. Legington, M.Ed./CI, Visual Arts Educator, The Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy:

“This transformation of the library space will provide new motivation, inspiration and opportunities for all of our stakeholders. Not to mention, it will create new resources for increasing levels of success for the BOMLA community. The possibilities are endless. Thanks go out to, Dwell with Dignity and the United Way for empowering the future of BOMLA.”

Mr. Lawrence Stokes Jr., Library Media Specialist, The Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy:
“This transformation of the library would put new life into the heartbeat of this school.  The library is the focus point of all small gatherings in the school. Its use goes far beyond our students, faculty and staff, but for our community and other visitors. "This 2025 Transformation gives us a heighten sense of pride and joy as the central hub of higher learning through reading, art, music, and technology. Thank you, Dwell with Dignity and United Way."

SPARK! Dallas has announced plans for its 10^th anniversary in 2025 with SPARKtacular, a spectacular fundraising event on May 1, 2025 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at a private Dallas residence. This unique and immersive evening experience is designed exclusively for adults (21 and older) with elements of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics), delicious food, expertly crafted cocktails and live music. Event Co-Chairs are Nell and Shelby Bush & Carol and Sam Dalton. Honorary Chair is Sarah Losinger.

Nell Bush said, “SPARK! Dallas needs your support to help provide STEAM education to more students. Its mission is to ignite sparks of creativity and curiosity inherent in all children through its unique environment, combined with exciting programming that inspires minds, builds confidence and shapes the future of all children.”

Carol Dalton added, “SPARKtacular is a first ever event that you won't want to miss! We invite you to join us for an evening of fun with elements of surprise at every turn, while supporting an impactful nonprofit organization.”

Meg Bittner, SPARK! Dallas executive director, said, “We need your help to provide STEAM education to students and educators in historically underrepresented communities. To date, we have had 16,000 students attend field trips in 2024, and 60% of those come from 40 Title 1 schools. For many, it is often their first field trip to a hands-on-creative environment, so SPARKtacular will help us reach more of them.” 

Sponsorships, which range from $500 to $50,000, are available. Tickets will be for sale closer to the date, if available. More information can be found at https://sparkdallas.org/sparktacular/.

About SPARK! Dallas:

A nonprofit founded in 2010, SPARK! Dallas provides children from second grade to high school with a fully immersive creative environment with hands-on learning that develops their self-definition as creative individuals. Through an endless roster of workshops and pop-up activities, students exercise their creativity and learn from creative experts, innovators, and artists. The organization’s vision is to help students acquire creative skills to excel in school and compete in the workforce. SPARK! also hosts interactive camps, field trips and birthday parties. SPARK! is located in the historic South Side of Lamar building at 1409 Botham Jean Blvd, Ste 004, Dallas, Texas 75215. For more information, visit https://sparkdallas.org/ or call 214.421.7727.

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.

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).

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 19^th 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.