Texas Women’s Foundation’s Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration brought together a sold-out audience of more than 600 attendees on April 29 at Moody Performance Hall for an inspiring evening dedicated to celebrating women’s leadership and building #StrongWomenBetterTexas and raising more than $385,000 in support of the foundation’s mission. Co-chaired by Cristal Retana Lule and Lynn McBee, the event highlighted the power of sisterhood and collective philanthropy in removing the barriers to women’s economic security, stability and success and creating a strong and vibrant Texas for all.

Featuring a new venue and theater-style format, the program opened with an awards celebration, sponsored by Haynes Boone, honoring seven extraordinary women whose leadership is transforming communities across the state.

Awards Selection Committee co-chairs, Texas Women’s Foundation Board Chair Cris Zertuche Wong and 1991 Maura Award Recipient Brenda Jackson, recognized attendees “for believing deeply in this work” and reflected on the organization’s impact, emphasizing that for 40 years, the foundation has remained steadfast in its mission – advancing research, advocacy and strategic investments that create real change for Texas women and their families. Wong emphasized that even amid today’s challenges, the foundation is “not slowing down,” but instead “doubling down to expand opportunity and ensure all Texans have the chance to thrive.”

The 2026 Young Leader Award recipients, Prisma Garcia and Amanda Valentine, were recognized for their bold leadership and commitment to creating pathways for others. Garcia’s work in education, mental health access and public service, alongside Valentine’s impact in healthcare operations and systems improvement, exemplify the next generation of changemakers.

The prestigious Maura Women Helping Women Awards honored five exceptional leaders: 

• Debra Hunter Johnson for her transformational leadership and advocacy in the corporate and nonprofit sectors;
• Kim Bizor Tolbert for her groundbreaking leadership as Dallas City Manager and commitment to public service;
• Margie Aguilar for amplifying diverse voices through media and storytelling with an emphasis on the Hispanic community;
• Dr. Olga Martinez Hickman for her community-driven work advancing equity and opportunity through Bachman Lake Together;
• Thear Suzuki for her purpose-driven leadership and dedication to inspiring courageous action through mentorship and philanthropy.

The Leadership Forum, presented by Southwest Airlines, emceed by CBS News Anchor Karen Borta, served as a masterclass in leadership, featuring dynamic, micro-learning sessions with award recipients and thought leaders. Borta emphasized the power of collective action and shared purpose in driving meaningful change for women and families across Texas.

The forum opened with “Power, Poise & Purpose,” featuring Kim Bizor Tolbert who shared her insights on leading with intention and navigating leadership at the highest levels of public service. Tolbert shared that the award carries deep meaning, calling it “a mandate to continue to work, swim upstream and focus on what matters.” She emphasized staying grounded in faith amid pressure, noting, “I use my voice to help women find ways forward — not just by opening the door, but by making sure they have the keys.”

A keynote highlight was Debra Hunter Johnson’s “DEBTalk,” which challenged attendees to rethink systemic barriers and move from intention to action in creating equitable workplaces. She challenged us to redesign systems because, “according to the McKinsey report, it could take 50 years for women to reach parity in the workplace. We don’t have 50 years.”

In a dynamic discussion on intergenerational leadership, Young Leaders Prisma Garcia and Amanda Valentine reflected on the realities facing emerging leaders today and the importance of collaboration across generations.

The “Voices That Shape Change” session highlighted the power of storytelling and advocacy, as Margie Aguilar and Dr. Olga Martinez Hickman shared how they use their respective platforms to drive meaningful community impact. Among their reflections, Aguilar noted, “We must learn to own our greatness and know our worth,” while Hickman emphasized inclusive solutions, saying, “The people closest to a problem need to be part of the solution – that’s my personal mantra.”

To close the forum, Thear Suzuki reflected on values-driven leadership, legacy, and the importance of inspiring courageous action in others. “Courage comes from external sources – we have courage to act when we know someone has our back,” she shared.

Following the forum, the foundation presented its Special Recognition Award to High Tech Rising (formerly High Tech High Heels) for its decades-long commitment to advancing girls in STEM. Melendy Lovett and Laura Steffek accepted the honor, sharing that over 25 years, the initiative has reached more than 90,000 girls and invested more than $2 million in STEM education. Fittingly, Texas Instruments sponsored this award as its female leaders were the catalyst for founding the nonprofit 25 years ago. 

Concluding the program, the Foundation introduced its inaugural Champion Award, honoring Allen Nye, CEO of Oncor, for his leadership in advancing women in the workplace. Nye thanked Texas Women’s Foundation for opening doors, expanding opportunities and reminding others what is possible when talent is encouraged. “Better decisions are made when there are more perspectives at the table. It’s not just the right thing to do; it’s good business.”

Throughout the event, speakers reflected on the Foundation’s 40-year legacy of impact, including mobilizing more than $115 million to support the 14.7 million women and girls across Texas. The program concluded with a call to action, encouraging collective giving to further accelerate progress, supported by a $55,000 matching gift from Debra Hunter Johnson and a group of her friends, contributing to the more than $385,000 raised by the event.

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White closed the program by thanking attendees, congratulating award recipients, and reflecting on the collective experience, saying, “Friends, I hope you all are feeling as inspired and energized as I am. More importantly, I hope you are feeling hopeful about the future we’re building together.”

The evening transitioned into a celebratory reception sponsored by Perkins Coie, uniting attendees in the shared mission of creating a strong and vibrant Texas for all by building #StrongWomenBetterTexas.

Key sponsors recognized:

• Presenting Sponsor: Haynes Boone

• Leadership Forum Sponsor: Southwest Airlines
• Cocktail Reception Sponsor: Perkins Coie
• Parking Sponsor: Friends of Olga
• Registration Partner: Hilti
• Maura Recognition Sponsor: Marshalling Resources
• Transformational Partner: Debra Hunter Johnson and Friends
• Special Recognition Award Sponsor: Texas Instruments and the TI Foundation
• Snap & Share Photo Sponsor: Oncor (with photo experience by Pikcher Booth)

More information can be found at https://txwf.org/leadership

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support nearly $5 million in investments each year to help eliminate the barriers to women’s economic security, stability and success through targeted research and advocacy, intentional grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $90 million in grantmaking in support of Texas women, their families and their futures, and another $25 million in research, advocacy and educational programs for a total impact of $115 million over the last 40 years. As TXWF prepares for its next 40 years, the organization’s vision for a strong and vibrant Texas for all will remain at the forefront of its work.

TXWF’s targeted research into the issues impacting the economic security of Texas women and families will continue to guide its work. The biannual “Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report” also provides corporate and community leaders, and state and local lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the mission-aligned investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a values-based portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits that align with its mission. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now.

On Saturday, May 16, Dallas’ signature architecture-themed race celebrated another milestone year as the Form Follows Fitness 5K, presented by Blackson Brick, gathered more than 60 runners, walkers, architects, designers, civic leaders and community supporters at Community Beer Company for a ceremonial check presentation benefiting The Architecture and Design Foundation. The brewery hosted four social runs leading up to the 2026 race and will host monthly runs on the third Saturday of each month through January 2027.

The 2026 race season generated $221,358.07, the third-highest fundraising total in event history, helping bring the race’s lifetime charitable impact to more than $2 million raised. The event also celebrated its 15th anniversary year, setting records with 3,973 registrations, $308,000 in sponsorship revenue and 184 industry teams participating. Throughout its 15-year history, 44,588 participants have taken part in the 5K.

The ceremonial presentation recognized the impact of a community event that has evolved far beyond a race. Form Follows Fitness has united the architecture, engineering, construction, planning and fitness communities to raise funds that create opportunities for students, support research, expand public education and connect residents to the beauty and importance of the built environment.

The morning also spotlighted the future of architecture, design and civic innovation. Following the presentation, an air horn sounded as runners and walkers began the first official monthly social run leading into the 2027 race season.

“The AD EX Form Follows Fitness 5K really began from a simple moment of inspiration during a Saturday morning AD EX Arts District Walking Tour in 2010,” said Patrick Glenn, AIA, LEED AP, ALEP, LE Fellow, Form Follows Fitness 5K founder. “As Briar Glenn and I were experiencing the energy of the Dallas Arts District, we started talking about how incredible it would be to create an event that connected health, community and architecture in a more visible and engaging way. What started as a meaningful idea has grown into a Dallas tradition that celebrates architecture, promotes public engagement and supports educational programs and scholarships for future generations of designers and architects.”

Glenn said one of the event’s greatest achievements has been strengthening the connection between the public and the architecture and design community while supporting educational initiatives and scholarships.

“Seeing the lasting impact this event has had on both our profession and the broader Dallas community is something I am incredibly proud of,” Glenn said. “I am excited to see how we can continue to grow that message and impact for the next 15 years.”

For Briar Glenn, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Form Follows Fitness 5K co-founder, the race’s continued growth reflects the power of community collaboration.

“Celebrating the Form Follows Fitness 5K’s 15th anniversary is a tremendous milestone,” Glenn said. “What began as an idea to bring our industry colleagues, partners and the community together around a shared commitment to wellness and the celebration of Dallas’ iconic architecture has grown into something far greater than Patrick and I ever imagined.”

She said the race has become the Foundation’s largest single fundraising effort while helping expand programs such as Build Your City!, the Exhibition Series, Architecture and Design Exchange programming and Designing My Future Camps.

“Beyond race day, the 5K has become a catalyst for deeper community engagement, meaningful industry partnerships and new opportunities to inspire the next generation through the power of architecture and design,” Glenn said.

Norman Alston, FAIA, president-elect of The Architecture and Design Foundation, believes the race perfectly reflects Dallas’ architectural spirit.

“I love that the Form Follows Fitness 5K was born out of walking through our city and looking at the architecture,” Alston said. “It’s testimony to the quality of Dallas architecture that, besides being beautiful, it can inspire people in other important aspects of their lives.”

The race’s unique atmosphere and citywide appeal continue to resonate with participants and organizers alike, according to Eric Lindberg, race director for the Form Follows Fitness 5K.

“Every year, the commitment and support from the architecture industry for the race blows me away,” Lindberg said. “It’s the largest industry gathering in North Texas and I pause when I call it a race because it’s truly an event for all, including architecture, the running and walking community, families, friends and coworkers.”

Lindberg added that the course remains one of the event’s signature experiences as participants travel through the West End, Downtown, the Arts District and Uptown before finishing at Klyde Warren Park.

Marc Blackson, president of Blackson Brick, said supporting the event aligns naturally with the company’s mission and values.

“Supporting Form Follows Fitness is not only a commitment to giving back, it’s a strategic alignment of business objectives with meaningful impact, strengthening both the Foundation and the architecture community it serves,” Blackson said.

About The Architecture and Design Foundation

The Architecture and Design Foundation is North Texas’ public gateway to architecture, design and the built environment. Through education, public programming and community access, the Foundation helps residents better understand how thoughtful design shapes where people live, work, learn and gather.

A cornerstone of its mission is Designing My Future, an expanding camp series for students ages 6 through 18 that introduces architecture, engineering and construction through hands-on learning led by architects, designers and educators. Students gain exposure to STEM learning, creative problem solving and career pathways while building confidence and leadership skills.

The Foundation also offers family-friendly programming such as Build Your City!, LEGO build days, workshops, guided architecture tours, gallery exhibitions and public discussions exploring sustainability, preservation, urban planning and the future of cities.

Each year, the organization awards between $40,000 and $60,000 in scholarships, fellowships and research grants to high school students, university students and emerging professionals. Funds raised through Form Follows Fitness help keep public programs accessible, support underserved youth and first-generation college students, preserve Dallas’ architectural legacy and cultivate the next generation of designers, planners and civic leaders.

Sponsors

Master Builder Sponsor

• Blackson Brick

Tradesman Level Sponsors

• C1S Group
• Corgan
• Curtainwall Design & Consulting
• Glenn Partners
• LA Fuess Structural Engineers
• Merriman MAA
• Stantec
• Whiting-Turner

ABOUT FORM FOLLOWS FITNESS 5K

The Form Follows Fitness 5K, presented by Blackson Brick and benefiting The Architecture and Design Foundation, celebrates Dallas architecture through a scenic race experience showcasing the city’s skyline and iconic urban design. Participants travel through the West End, Downtown, the Arts District and Uptown while supporting education, public engagement and community programming connected to the built environment.

Registration is now open for the 2027 Form Follows Fitness 5K, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027, at Klyde Warren Park. More information, including details on upcoming social runs, is available at formfollowsfitness.com.

ABOUT THE BENEFICIARY

The Architecture and Design Foundation is North Texas’ public gateway to architecture, design and the built environment. The organization exists to help residents understand how thoughtful design influences where we live, work, learn and gather, and why great cities do not happen by accident.

Through education, access and public programming, the Foundation helps transform architecture from something people simply look at into something they actively experience and appreciate.

A cornerstone of its mission is Designing My Future, an expanding camp series for students ages 6 through 18 that introduces architecture, engineering and construction through hands-on learning led by architects, designers and educators. Students gain exposure to career pathways, STEM learning, creative problem solving and confidence-building experiences.

The Foundation also offers family-friendly programs such as Build Your City!, LEGO build days, workshops and community events that make architecture approachable for children and adults alike. Many are free or low-cost so families across income levels can participate.

Each year, thousands of residents and visitors engage through guided architecture walking tours and tram tours that showcase Dallas neighborhoods, landmarks and the stories behind them. These experiences build civic pride while increasing appreciation for preservation and smart urban growth.

Its gallery exhibitions and public dialogues explore innovation, sustainability, historic preservation, planning and the future of cities. The Foundation regularly partners with schools, universities, nonprofits and professional organizations to ensure design voices are part of broader civic conversations.

The organization also awards $40,000 to $60,000 annually in scholarships, fellowships and research grants for high school students, university students and emerging professionals. These opportunities help young talent study, travel, research and bring new ideas back to Dallas.

Funds raised through Form Follows Fitness also helps keep public programs accessible, reach underserved youth and first-generation college students, preserve Dallas’ architectural legacy and cultivate the next generation of designers, planners and civic leaders.

Park Place Volvo has opened its newly redesigned Dallas showroom and sales offices, a modern, light-filled space that reflects Volvo’s Scandinavian design heritage while reinforcing Park Place Dealerships’ commitment to offering a more personal, comfortable client experience.

The redesigned facility features a striking glass exterior, Volvo’s signature blue accent panels, a warm wood-framed entrance and an open showroom filled with natural light. Inside, clients will find a hospitality-inspired environment with light wood flooring, slatted wood ceiling details, glass-walled offices, pendant lighting, contemporary seating areas, and clean architectural lines.

The result is a space that feels less like a traditional automotive showroom and more like a modern Scandinavian living room, one designed to make clients feel comfortable as they explore Volvo’s lineup, meet with sales consultants and take delivery of their vehicles.

“Volvo has always represented thoughtful design, innovation, safety and an understanding of how people live,” said Donny Lambrecht, General Manager of Park Place Volvo. “This redesigned showroom gives our clients a space that feels open, welcoming and true to the Volvo brand, while allowing our team to deliver the personal attention Park Place is known for in Dallas.”

The updated showroom and sales offices are part of a broader investment in Park Place Volvo’s Dallas presence. Park Place Volvo is expected to open a new service center in 2027 to accommodate all Volvo vehicles, creating a more convenient and efficient ownership experience beyond the showroom.

Volvo continues to advance a vehicle lineup shaped by safety, technology, sustainability and Scandinavian design. Today’s Volvo portfolio includes fully electric models, plug-in hybrid options and mild hybrid vehicles designed to give clients a range of choices based on how they live and drive. From the family-focused XC90 and versatile XC60 to the fully electric EX90 and EX30, Volvo pairs refined design and everyday functionality with advanced driver-assistance technology and a long-standing commitment to safety.

Located at 3515 Inwood Road on Lemmon Avenue, Park Place Volvo has served Dallas-area clients for decades with a focus on premium vehicles, thoughtful service and long-term client relationships. The redesigned facility continues Park Place Dealerships’ “Experts in Excellence” approach by combining modern automotive retail design with hospitality, expertise and attention to detail.

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs more than 1,400 members. Park Place Dealerships operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place is a part of Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Atlanta, GA. Asbury is one of the largest automotive retailers in the U.S. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

Imagine the thrill of Top Gun: Maverick, the high-flying, adrenaline-charged blockbuster nominated for six Academy Awards®, combined with the power of Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s full live orchestra. That’s exactly what audiences will experience with Top Gun: Maverick in Concert, coming to the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center May 22-24, 2026.

This one-of-a-kind cinematic concert event features the film projected in high definition on the big screen, while the DSO performs the iconic score live, including compositions by Harold Faltermeyer, Lady Gaga, and Hans Zimmer with score production by Lorne Balfe. It’s a powerful sensory experience that transforms blockbuster film music into a living, breathing orchestral performance.

Under the baton of acclaimed conductor Sarah Hicks, the orchestra elevates the emotional journey in Top Gun: Maverick in a way only live performance can, making music a central character in the storytelling.

Tickets start at $78. Secure your spots now at dallassymphony.org.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is kicking off summer with three free outdoor concerts in Downtown Dallas, inviting families, neighbors, and music lovers to enjoy an evening of live symphonic music in the heart of their own communities. The month’s line-up includes:

• Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Instrument Petting Zoo (May 17). Bring the whole family to this hands-on educational experience featuring an instrument petting zoo and other live musical demonstrations. Plus, learn more about the DSO’s youth programs, including Young Strings, Young Musicians, and more! Location: Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park on Flora and Pearl Streets, Dallas, TX 75201.

• Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Chamber Concert (May 21). Rounding out the 2025/26 season with the last Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park Concert, guests are invited to a fun, intimate one-hour performance featuring the DSO ensemble. Location: Bill & Shirley McIntyre Park on Flora and Pearl Streets, Dallas, TX 75201

• Memorial Day Parks Concert at Flag Pole Hill (May 25). This annual Dallas tradition honors the holiday with an uplifting, patriotic program performed under the open sky and a vibrant fireworks show. The concert will begin at 8:15 PM, with fireworks to follow at 9:15 PM. Location: Flag Pole Hill at 8015 Doran Circle, Dallas, TX 75238.

Each performance features a DSO ensemble, bringing beloved orchestral works, family-friendly favorites, and a celebratory program to audiences of all ages. Guests can unwind in a relaxed outdoor experience that highlights the DSO’s commitment to community engagement and accessible live music.