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Patricia Chi
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The Coppell cross-country teams competed in the Haltom Pre-District Meet on Thursday, October 2, after last weekend’s Jesuit meet was canceled due to conditions. This make-up meet gave many athletes a chance to showcase their progress, and Coppell made the most of the opportunity. Despite a tough course, the Cowboys and Cowgirls turned in impressive performances, earning team victories and individual medals across multiple divisions.

Cowboys Highlights

  • Varsity Boys – Coppell took 1st place out of 23 teams in a field of 225 runners. Top finishers included Rodrigo Abrego (12th), Vihaan Sharma (28th), Lukas Stumm (29th), Abishek Suresh (30th), and Rigved Nehere (35th). Rodrigo also earned a medal for finishing in the Top 20.
  • JV Boys – The Cowboys finished 3rd out of 19 schools, just one point from 2nd and only eight points shy of the team title. Medalists were Ansh Patel (6th), Aaron Joseph (10th), and Dee Raibourn (13th). Carlos Ramirez (22nd) and Vihaan Chodisetti (24th) narrowly missed medaling but impressed with strong performances.

Cowgirls Highlights

  • JV Girls – Coppell dominated, winning 1st place out of 10 teams and placing five runners in the Top 20. Laurel Storey claimed the individual title, followed by Sophia Sarmiento in 2nd. Lauren Tang (7th), Joanna Benjamin (14th), and Sophia Rincon (16th) also medaled, leading a sweep that showed Coppell’s depth and talent.

Coach’s Perspective

Coach Wren praised his athletes’ efforts:

“It is a big deal anytime you win a race as a team. I am super proud of these JV runners winning a Varsity race. Our girls dominated the competition, and our JV Boys were right there competing for the top spot. This meet was a great tune-up for District. I can’t wait to see the kids compete one last time this season at North Lakes Park in Denton against stiff district competition. I’m confident that our kids will compete well.”

Looking Ahead

Next up, Coppell heads to North Lakes Park in Denton for the District Meet on October 10. With momentum from Haltom and continued progress throughout the season, the Cowboys and Cowgirls are ready to take on their toughest challenge yet.

Photo credit: Adrian Holguin

Contact Information
For more details or to support Coppell High School’s Cross-Country team, please contact:
Patricia Chi
Email: chi.patricia@gmail.com
Mobile: (469) 831-3709

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Event Chairs David and Vanessa Cain, Ross Perot President & CEO Michelle Miller Burns and Gary Burns, Marena Gault and Dallas Symphony Association Chair of the Board of Governors Roger Gault (Credit Tamytha Cameron)

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Dallas’ music lovers gathered at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s 2025 Symphony Gala. This year’s glittering event celebrated the DSO’s 125th anniversary. More than 400 distinguished guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening that included cocktails, dinner and a live auction. An additional 800 guests joined the celebration at the Gala concert and after-party. Vanessa and David Cain served as the 2025 Symphony Gala Chairs along with Honorary Co-Chairs Erin Mathews and Ruth Ruhl and Host Committee Chairs Dr. Courtney and Andrew Nall.

Guests arrived in the main lobby of the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, which David Kimmel Design had transformed into a lush, futuristic garden, complete with shimmering water features and ethereal mist — the perfect setting for a champagne reception. The Dallas Symphony Chorus entertained with a medley of songs from the Meyerson’s radial staircase.

Honorary Co-Chairs Erin Mathews and Ruth Ruhl welcomed guests for dinner and introduced auctioneer Charlie Caulkins from Sotheby’s, who led the night’s spirited live auction. Highlights from the auction included a Napa Wine Country Getaway, a Porsche track experience in Atlanta and a luxury stay at Four Seasons in Vail, Colorado and the Mandarin Oriental Ritz in Madrid, all generously donated by sponsors.

Capital One Head of Navigator Products Annie Fallows presented Young Strings student Elias Gonzalez with the first-ever Capital One Outstanding Student Award, which includes a $5,000 scholarship for Gonzalez to invest in his musical future. Designed to support continued artistic growth, juniors and seniors in the DSO’s Young Strings and Young Musicians programs were encouraged to apply for this award. The funds can be used toward the purchase of a new instrument, enrollment in a summer program or masterclass, college-related expenses and more.

After dinner, guests moved into the Eugene McDermott Concert Hall and were welcomed by Ross Perot President & CEO Michelle Miller Burns, Dallas Symphony Association Chair of the Board of Governors Roger Gault and Gala Chairs Vanessa and David Cain. The Cains then welcomed Music Director Fabio Luisi (Louise W. & Edmund J. Kahn Music Directorship) and the musicians of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra to the stage. The evening’s concert with the DSO was led by Luisi and featured Artist-in-Residence Leonidas Kavakos. The program included Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto and Beethoven’s Overture to Egmont. The Beethoven work was a special nod to the DSO’s history; the legendary Georg Solti conducted the piece on his first subscription concert as DSO Music Director in 1961.

After the performance, guests returned to the Meyerson lobby, which had been magically transformed once again, into a whimsical, futuristic “soiree in the celestial garden” for an after-party experience where guests enjoyed savories, desserts and dancing to live music performed by Groove Sinfonico with DSO trumpet Elmer Churampi.

The annual Symphony Gala is one of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s largest annual fundraisers, benefitting the DSO’s life-changing education and community outreach initiatives, allowing the DSO to continue inspiring and changing lives through musical excellence. The DSO touches the lives of more than 200,000 North Texas residents each year.

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Dr. Lily T. Garcia, dean, Charles Fulton, biomedical services lab manager and the director of the Anatomical Gift Program, Dr. Qian Wang, professor in biomedical sciences, and Dr. John Neubert, head of biomedical sciences. (Texas A&M University College of Dentistry)

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas hosted a staff awards ceremony Sept. 25 to honor several employees who not only work hard, but who also are dedicated to the school’s mission of providing academic excellence, trailblazing research and community-centered care and service. 

“Sometimes it is easy to forget how well offices and programs run until you lose someone…,” said Dr. Lily T. García, dean. “We want to spend time to celebrate, thank you and show our appreciation.” 

Staff Excellence Awards 

Charles Fulton, Meghann Holt and Deborah Stewart received Staff Excellence Awards. Fulton is biomedical sciences’ lab manager and the director of the Anatomical Gift Program, while Holt serves as biomedical sciences’ administrative coordinator. Stewart is laboratory manager in comprehensive dentistry, A&M Dental’s largest department.  

Fulton was nominated by Dr. John Neubert, professor and head of biomedical sciences, and Dr. Qian Wang, professor in biomedical sciences. They said Fulton’s organizational excellence is at the core of his role, and he’s committed to service-hearted professionalism. 

“He works round the clock when needed, without expectation of praise or recognition, driven by a genuine desire to help others in their most vulnerable moments,” the nomination stated. 

Also nominated by Neubert, Holt was recognized for her recommendations to improve and streamline office operations and for other contributions. 

“She has a pleasant demeanor, always greeting visitors, answering inquiries and serving as a reliable liaison across departments,” Neubert stated. “Whether helping faculty with scheduling, assisting with student-centered events or supervising student workers, she handles every task with a detailed approach to ensure efficiency.” 

Stewart, dental laboratory coordinator, quality assurance coordinator and digital dentistry coordinator in comprehensive dentistry, was nominated by Drs. Christine Chu, clinical assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry; John Stooksberry, clinical associate professor in comprehensive dentistry; and Brent Hutson, director of clinical compliance in the Office of Clinical Affairs. They said she manages the multiple roles with exceptional skill and grace. 

“Ms. Stewart is known for her unwavering work ethic; a hard worker (who) takes her job seriously,” the nomination stated. “Her punctuality and reliability are matched only by her deep knowledge of clinical procedures and her willingness to step in whenever needed.”  

New Employee Awards 

Mark Jones, senior communications specialist in marketing and communications, and Terrie Wendel, business administrator in the finance department, received New Employee Awards. Jones joined A&M Dental in November 2024, and Wendel started in September 2023. 

Jones, a former member of Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets, was nominated by Steven Crow, creative services manager in marketing and communications, and Stephanie Patrick, communications coordinator in marketing and communications. He was called supportive, approachable and a team player. 

“He is patient, willing to take on tasks that no one wants, and is always looking for new ways to improve our message,” the nomination stated. 

Wendel, business administrator in the Office of Finance and Administration, was nominated by Kenneth Thomas, director of clinical finance. He wrote that Wendel took the lead role in a business initiative, exploring and piloting third-party billing for the dental college. As a result, A&M Dental collects from vendors more consistently and on time. 

She’s also largely responsible for the success of the dental college’s refund policy. 

“She has worked very hard to revamp this process to get refunds to patients within 30 days,” Thomas wrote. 

Staff Team Excellence Award 

A&M Dental’s finance team won the Staff Team Award, nominated by Amy Caldwell, the department’s director of business services. Members include Richard Farmer, business coordinator; Maribel Mendiola, business coordinator; Natalie Perdue, business administrator; Sandra Stansbury, business administrator; and Jeremy Taylor, business administrator. 

Caldwell noted the accounts payable team improved payment processes that led to more on-time payments and overall efficiency. The on-time payment rate is 99.9% thanks to their efforts. 

 

 

 

 

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Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.—North America’s leading producer of larger-than-life lantern festivals and the pioneers who brought authentic Chinese lantern traditions to the U.S. and Europe—is returning this winter to Texas Trust CU Theatre, 1150 Pollock Pl, Grand Prairie, TX 75050. Tickets are on sale now, including brand-new season passes that offer unlimited entry for the entire festival.

“We can’t wait to light up North Texas with a festival full of wonder, color, and unforgettable moments,” said Huiyuan Liu, event manager at Tianyu Arts & Culture. “We are excited to offer season passes this year so families can plan repeat visits to explore magical worlds, enjoy live performances, and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

Back by popular demand, the Tianyu Lights Festival will transform the grounds into a glowing wonderland of art, culture, and family fun. Explore two magical themed worlds born from the imagination of 7-year-old Koda: Starlit Farm, evoking peaceful summer nights in the countryside, and Magic Ocean, an enchanting undersea kingdom shimmering with reefs and fantastical creatures.

Each night, live performances will electrify the festival with breathtaking spectacles. Witness the dramatic mask-changing art of Face Changing (Bianlian), jaw-dropping acrobatics, and the graceful folk dance. Shows are scheduled at 6:45, 7:50, and 9:00 p.m., weather permitting.

Guests can wander, shop, and savor the festival magic. The marketplace is brimming with handcrafted treasures—from traditional Chinese lanterns to intricate inner-bottle paintings—while the food court tempts taste buds with hot drinks, sweet treats, and meals from local and traveling vendors.

Families will love the illuminated playground with interactive displays and Instagram-ready backdrops. New this year, kids can climb aboard glowing Magic Rides (available until 9:00 p.m. for a separate fee).

Featuring 19 immersive scenes with larger-than-life lantern sculptures crafted from metal, fabric, and LED lights, the Tianyu Lights Festival is a holiday spectacle like no other, offering twinkling displays, rich cultural traditions, and unforgettable experiences for all ages.

The festival runs November 7, 2025, through January 18, 2026Tuesdays–Sundays from 6 to 10 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now, ranging from $16 to $35! Don’t miss the Early Bird special (through Nov. 5): 15% off General Admission & Child Tickets with code MO2025. 

New this year: Season Pass! Guests ages three and above can enjoy unlimited entry for the entire festival—perfect for families who plan to visit multiple times over the winter holidays. Season passes are available for $77.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to connect with thousands of families across the DFW metroplex during the holiday season.

For more information on tickets, sponsorships, or becoming a food vendor, visit tianyuculture.us/dallas.

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SJCA Oct 2025 JSW horizontal-flyer.png 08302025.pn

Do you feel that your career is at a crossroads? Are you trying to move forward or expand in a different direction, but are not sure how to go about it? If so, come join the St. Jude Career Alliance at its comprehensive, faith-based job search workshop on Saturday, October 18, 8:45 AM to 3:00 PM, at St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 North Greenville Avenue in Allen, TX  75002. Titled Empowering Your Career Journey, One Step at a Time, this workshop reflects the post-Pandemic changes in the job search market as well as feedback from Career Alliance workshop attendees over the past 20 months.

The Empowering Your Career Journey, One Step at a Time workshop will integrate interactive exercises such as S.T.A.R (Situation. Task. Action. Result.) stories, targeting specific companies, and crafting a Unique Selling Proposition (USP) to enable attendees to differentiate themselves from competitors. Attendees are encouraged to network during breaks and practice skills learned during the sessions.

This workshop is ideal for:

  • People who are unemployed and want an effective job search process.
  • People who want to get back into the job market after an extended career break.
  • People who are looking to do a career shift but are not sure just where to begin.

 Parties interested in participating in this job search workshop will need to register online and pay a $25 fee. The fee will cover the cost of a full-color, spiral-bound copy of the presentation, as well as lunch, drinks, and snacks. Registered attendees also need to bring a printed copy of their resume to the workshop. The link for Online Registration appears below:

https://www.osvhub.com/stjudeparish/forms/career-alliance-quarterly-workshop-10-18-25

This link connects to a registration form that includes a payment button. Registration forms cannot be submitted until payment is made.

The October 18 comprehensive job search workshop will take place in the Lecture Hall on the St. Jude parish campus. Participants should park in the northeast parking lot on Greenville Avenue, enter through the church office doors, and follow the signs inside to the Lecture Hall location. This event is open to all job seekers, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or age.

The 2026 St. Jude Career job search workshops will be held:

  • 1Q2026 Saturday, January 24, 2026
  • 2Q2026 Saturday, April 18, 2026
  • 3Q2026 Saturday, July 25, 2026
  • 4Q2026 Saturday, October 17, 2026

 For more information:

 

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PlainsCapital Bank celebrated the opening of its new Denton branch last week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together local leaders, business partners, and community members. The event also celebrated Randy Robinson, the bank's new Denton Market President.

Robinson, a longtime Denton community leader with more than 40 years in banking, is recognized for his service and dedication to the city. He has held leadership roles with the Denton Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, United Way, and Medical City Denton. A graduate of the University of North Texas with a BBA in Finance, Robinson is known for his commitment to building strong teams and supporting local initiatives.

The PlainsCapital Bank branch is located at 513 W. Oak Street, Suite 100, in Denton.

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CarlaRusso_ReginaBruce_byGoldenlight Creative_crop Dr. Carla Russo and Regina Bruce, Chairs

Empowered Women Empowering Young Girls Presented by Westwood Wealth Management

Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 13, 2025

Lynn McBee, CEO of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network, announces a new fundraiser for the organization, The EmpowerHER Dinner, Empowered Women Empowering Young Girls presented by Westwood Wealth Management.      

Chaired by Regina Bruce and Dr. Carla Russo, the theme includes this inspirational tagline, “Like a monarch transforming from a caterpillar to a butterfly – Empowering young girls to soar on their journey into adulthood.”         

Signing on as honorary chairs are the women of the Lacerte family: Joyce Lacerte, Quincy Lacerte, Madison Lacerte, Monroe Lacerte, Megan Barrie-Schwarz and Harriet Lacerte.     

Slated for Thursday, November 13, 2025 and happening in a private home in the Park Cities for up to 125 attendees, this exclusive dinner will feature a top team of acclaimed and accomplished female chefs from local Dallas restaurants. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception including passed hors d’oeuvres, auction of some one-of-a-kind items, entertainment, announcements, and a few surprises followed by a multi-course seated gourmet dinner. Each chef will create her own featured item.       

Regina and Carla agree: “We are delighted and honored to chair this new fundraiser which will bring together our most compassionate supporters for an unforgettable evening of impact, connection, and community in support of single gender, college-preparatory education for underserved girls in Dallas County.”    

“Westwood Wealth Management, founded by Susan Byrne over 40 years ago, is proud to sponsor The EmpowerHER Dinner,” said Brian Casey, CEO and President of Westwood Wealth Management. He continued, “We are deeply committed to the mission of educating young women, a cause that resonates with our values and history. Inspired by our long-time friends and founders of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network, Lee and Sally Posey, we are honored to support this event. We look forward to celebrating with the women of the Lacerte family and enjoying a fabulous menu curated by four talented female chefs. Together, we can empower the next generation of women leaders.”  

“The EmpowerHER Dinner is more than a fundraiser—it’s a powerful investment in the future of our girls. I’m especially grateful to Regina Bruce and Dr. Carla Russo for their leadership, to the Lacerte family for their unwavering support, and to Westwood for making this event possible. Together, we’re opening doors to opportunity,” said Lynn McBee, Chief Executive Officer.     

Limited seating up to 125. Individual tickets start at $500. Patron tickets are $1,000 with different benefits. Sponsorships begin at $5,000 up to $25,000. Visit the website for more information: www.youngwomensprep.org/empowerher-dinner/  or contact Cindy Ryan, Chief Development Officer. Email: cryan@ywprep.org or call (214) 824-1400

About Young Women’s Preparatory Network:
Our mission is to support single-gender, college-preparatory, public education in Texas and beyond, giving young women the academic and leadership skills to achieve success in college and in life. https://youngwomensprep.org/

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EMPOWER Lacy Griffin, EMPOWER Director of Permanency Support; Ty Holloway, EMPOWER Community Engagement Specialist; Allyah Taylor, EMPOWER Community Engagement Specialist; and Annette Ezzell, EMPOWER Lead Attorney

On Sept. 18, EMPOWER hosted the Next Chapter – Life After Foster Care Symposium at Dallas College Richland Campus, bringing together 57 leaders from 43 community organizations. The first-of-its-kind event focused on how the community can better support older youth in foster care as they transition into adulthood.

The need is clear: while 75% of all youth in foster care are placed within the Metroplex East Region, only 41% of those ages 14 and older remain here, leaving many separated from schools, friends, and support systems at a critical stage of life.

“This symposium was about more than just a meeting, it was about building a network of people and resources that can walk alongside youth as they step into adulthood," said Randy Neff, Senior Vice President of EMPOWER. “No single organization can meet every need, but together, we can make sure no young person feels alone in this transition."

The symposium offered a meaningful space for collaboration, where leaders began shaping next steps to help ensure young people can thrive beyond foster care. Dr. Knetra Shaw of MacDac Center highlighted the inclusive format, noting it gave organizations the opportunity to truly connect.

“No matter what the need was, there was someone to represent everyone all the way up until adulthood,” said Dr. Knetra Shaw of MacDac Center. “I loved the idea of everyone getting the chance to introduce their organization, because typically you come to these meetings and everyone sits in silence, but this format gave us the opportunity to connect.

Together, the community can ensure older youth in foster care have the support they need to thrive. One of the most powerful ways to help is by opening your home to foster a teen and provide the love and stability they deserve. Learn more atwww.3empower.org/fosterfutures/.

About EMPOWER
EMPOWER, a nonprofit child welfare collaborative, is a partnership between Texas Family Initiative LLC, CK Family Services, Jonathan’s Place, Bair Foundation, and Pathways Youth and Family Services. Together, these organizations bring nearly 190 years of combined child welfare experience. Learn more at www.3EMPOWER.org.

 

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Shelton's 2025 Homecoming King and Queen are seniors Hudson Ramsey and Stevie Hickman.

Shelton’s 50th anniversary Homecoming on Sept. 26 turned into a show-stopping celebration when the skies lit up with a dazzling drone show capped by the reveal that Grammy Award-winning country group Little Big Town will headline Shelton’s Stampede Auction on April 11, 2026. The halftime celebration also announced that Shelton’s Varsity football team will play Covenant on Nov. 8, 2025, at The Star in Frisco, home of the Dallas Cowboys, as part of the school’s 50th anniversary festivities.

As the largest independent school for intelligent students with learning differences, Shelton marked its 50th year of transforming students’ lives with a celebration that reflected both school pride and community spirit. The evening began with a lively Shelton Parents’ Association tailgate on Charger Plaza featuring food trucks, BBQ by Shelton parent John Lynch, a dunk tank and bounce houses. Alumni gathered for a happy hour at La Hacienda Ranch before heading to campus for the big game.

Before kickoff, longtime Shelton leader Gary Webb was honored as the evening’s honorary captain in celebration of the school’s 50th anniversary. Webb has served as a Shelton board member since 1998 and as chairman of the board from 2010 to 2024. During his time as Board Chair, he was instrumental in leading the way for Shelton’s new campus. He was joined on the field by his family: son Adam Webb (Shelton Class of 2000) with wife Tiffany and granddaughter Birdie; daughter Samantha Wynne (Shelton Class of 2004) with husband Beau and grandchildren Caden and Presley; and daughter Malley Armstrong with husband TJ and grandchildren Ella and AmeliaWebb participated in the coin toss to officially open the game.

The Varsity Chargers football team, led by Head Coach Ed Barry, then took the field against Newman International Academy at 7 p.m., following a Middle School football game at 4:30 p.m. The Varsity team won 49-14, and the Middle School team earned a 33-6 victory.

At halftime, the Shelton Parents’ Association delivered a show unlike any other. The Shelton Drumline teed off the show with a drumroll before the skies above the scoreboard came alive with a choreographed drone show created by Antonio Liska of Robota. Images of Shelton’s blue and white, the Charger logo and the school’s 50th anniversary emblem lit up the night, all set to the music of Little Big Town.

The Chargerettes then took the field, each holding a letter to spell out the band’s name, as Nate Nelson of LeForce coordinated the lights and sound: Little Big Town will perform live at the Stampede Auction on April 11. Parents JoAnna Sudbeck and Mandy Evans, co-chairs of the Stampede Auction, and Shelton Director of Volunteer Relations & Events Shelly Lloyd helped coordinate the reveal.

“Once we were told we’d be announcing the entertainment at the Homecoming game, we knew we had to go big,” said Evans. “Shelton is known for thinking outside the box and embracing new technologies, so the drone show felt like the perfect way to surprise our Shelton families.”

Also announced at halftime was another milestone event for Shelton’s 50th celebrations. On Saturday, Nov. 8, Shelton’s Varsity football team will face Covenant at 4 p.m. at The Star in Frisco, home of the Dallas Cowboys. The game will also serve as Senior Night. More details on tailgating will be shared soon. Special thanks to the Dallas Cowboys and the Gene and Jerry Jones family for making this opportunity possible.

After the announcements, Shelton’s cheerleaders, Chargerettes and Drumline performed before the presentation of the Homecoming Court:

  • Seniors: Heston Dios, Hudson Ramsey, Brock Rogers, Elinor David, Stevie Hickman, Effie Maguire
     
  • Juniors: Tanner Smith, Kate White
     
  • Sophomores: Joe Moody, Adelynn Andras
     
  • Freshmen: DeShawn McClelland, Chace Smith

The Homecoming King and Queen are seniors Hudson Ramsey and Stevie Hickman.

Shelton Homecoming Week also featured Upper School dress-out days, two pep rallies, a ninth-grade Homecoming dinner and the Upper School Homecoming dance on Sept. 27. In addition, alumni planned to gather for the Sept. 27 Alumni Football Breakfast hosted by Coach Chuck Locke, former Middle School and Upper School football coach and Shelton’s former director of alumni relations.

Homecoming and the halftime show offered alumni and guests a glimpse of the spectacular year ahead, capturing Shelton’s spirit of community and 50th anniversary celebration that unites students, families, staff and alumni.

“Little Big Town built their success on four-part harmony, which felt like the perfect complement to Shelton’s four stars in our logo — the school, the Evaluation Center, the Outreach & Training programs and the Speech Center,” Evans said. “It’s such a meaningful connection.”

View Shelton Homecoming video at this link. For information about the Stampede auction, including sponsorship opportunities and ticket sales, go to this link. Information about Shelton’s 50th anniversary is at this link.

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TXWF Ripple Reception TXWF grantees

Through its annual Community Grants Cycle, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has distributed $822,160 to 23 nonprofits improving the lives of more than 20,000 women, girls and families in North Texas. Among the grants, TXWF Board Alumnae awarded the Virginia B. Whitehill Board Alumnae Grant to Bonton Farms in the amount of $40,000; and TXWF’s Nineteen network provided a grant of $40,000 to Nexus Family Recovery Center.

Grant recipients were recognized at a special reception on September 26 at Texas Women’s Foundation, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. This reception kicked off a year-long tribute honoring the rich history of TXWF’s founders and the four decades of impact the organization has made on the lives of women and girls across the state.

Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, said, “These incredible nonprofit organizations are transforming public education, providing critical healthcare access and helping fill the increasing gap in basic needs such as food and housing. We are so thankful to our donors and philanthropic partners who make this support possible, allowing TXWF to remove barriers to women’s economic security, stability and success as we work to build a strong and vibrant Texas for all.

Collin County:

Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation Inc. – Economic Security

The Samaritan Inn – Childcare

Dallas County:

Abide Women’s Health Services – Maternal Health

After8toeducate – Maternal Health

Bonton Farms – Economic Security

Brother Bill’s Helping Hand  – Workforce

Buckner Children and Family Services, Inc. – Workforce

Dallas Leadership Foundation – Leadership

Gateway of Grace – Economic Security

Interfaith Family Services – Housing

Junior Players  – Leadership Development

LBU Community Clinic – Maternal Health

Methodist Health System Foundation – Workforce

Nexus Family Recovery Center – Women’s Health

Poetic – Economic Security

Texas Woman’s University Foundation – Women’s Health 

Viola’s House – Housing

Vogel Alcove –  Child Care

Young Women’s Preparatory Network – Balch Springs – Education

Denton County:

Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas Inc.  – Mental Health

HSNT/Health Services of North Texas – Women’s Health

Ellis County:

The Heights Ellis County Family Resources Inc. – Mental Health

Tarrant County:

Camp Fire First Texas – Workforce

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:

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 total impact each year to advance the economic security, stability and success of Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has granted nearly $90 million in support of Texas women and girls. As the organization prepares to celebrate its 40th year, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterTexas has never been more critical. 

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 a mission-aligned 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

SELECT NORTH TEXAS COMMUNITY GRANTS

COLLIN COUNTY

The Samaritan Inn

The Samaritan Inn addresses economic mobility for women facing homelessness in Collin County, and who represent a majority of the population that is served by the Samaritan Inn. The grant supports the Family Foundations Program to address critical child care needs by increasing the availability of paid child care for non-school-age children and reducing financial strain on mothers in transitional housing. This includes expanding partnerships with child care providers to ensure sustainable, quality care for families, and includes sustaining essential services such as case management, counseling, and financial literacy for youth with the goal of breaking the cycle of poverty.

Kellie Maynard, Chief Development Officer, The Samaritan Inn:

"Thanks to the Texas Women's Foundation, we were able to launch our youth financial literacy program and expand evening childcare hours...we're building generational change by teaching both mothers and their children the tools for financial independence." 

DALLAS COUNTY

POETIC

With approximately 79,000 youth being victims of sex trafficking in Texas, and at least 35% of them in the DFW Metroplex, Poetic addresses the mental health and economic stability of young women who are survivors of child maltreatment, commercial sexual exploitation, and sex trafficking. Through innovative therapy models, education, case management, advocacy, paid internships, and the Poetic Design Co. Entrepreneurial Institute young women are equipped with the skills and opportunities to achieve financial independence and confidence to combat revictimization. 

HaeSung Han, Psy.D. ATR-BC, POETIC Co-Founder and CEO

“Texas Women’s Foundation’s continued investment in POETIC fuels transformation. Together, we are equipping youth to heal from trauma, rewrite their stories, and step into futures defined by strength and possibility.”

DALLAS COUNTY

Viola’s House

In Dallas, Viola’s House provides wraparound support and services to mothers faced with unplanned pregnancy.  Support includes safe and stable housing, education, access to healthcare, and transportation.  Viola’s House meets the unique housing needs of mothers through their recent expansion.  The Mini Purpose Place provides transitional housing that is family focused for mothers who are parenting multiple children. 

Thana Hickman, Founder, President and CEO, Viola’s House

"This grant is truly transformative for Viola’s House. It will allow us to expand our services, strengthen the support we provide to young mothers, and ensure that every family we serve has the tools and resources they need to thrive. We are deeply grateful for this investment in our mission, and we look forward to the lasting impact it will create in the lives of the women and children we walk alongside." 

DENTON COUNTY

Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas Inc.

Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas empowers child abuse victims, their families, and the community through education, healing, and justice. Abuse not only affects the victims of abuse but other associated people as well, this includes caregivers who often struggle with a child’s trauma.  The Center’s multi-generational approach supports the survivor and the caregiver. As the population of Denton County and North Texas explodes, the Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas confronts the growing need for its services. 

Kristen Howell, CEO, Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas Inc.

Receiving this grant is so amazing, and I am so grateful our agency was awarded it. May this greatly benefit babies, children, and teens that are at our center. May they find joy in everything they do forever and for always! Just spectacular!”

ELLIS COUNTY

The Heights Ellis County Family Resources Inc.

A first-time grant recipient, The Heights Ellis County Family Resources Inc. guides victims of domestic abuse to safety and hope by connecting them to the services of many local nonprofits all together in one location.  The Hive Counseling Program was created recognizing that counseling is a necessary tool for survivors of gender-based violence. Funding supports the salary of a licensed professional counselor and the expansion of hours and available sessions. Ellis County and much of the area served is considered a medically underserved community by the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Jennifer Salzman, Executive Director, The Heights Ellis County Family Resources Inc.

“Thanks to the generosity of the Texas Women’s Foundation, The Heights was able to add an additional full-time licensed counselor to our team. This vital support expands our capacity to provide trauma-informed care, ensuring survivors of domestic abuse and their children receive the consistent, professional counseling they need to heal and thrive.”  

TARRANT COUNTY

Camp Fire First Texas

Camp Fire First Texas supports the child care workforce and child care centers through its Early Education Apprenticeship Program (EEA) in North Texas.  Primarily serving Tarrant and Denton counties, the EEA program is designed to add a career and education pathway for early childhood educators that results in a better prepared workforce with certifications that lead to increased earning potential. In addition, this strengthens the child care landscape which impacts the economic security of women and impacts the state’s economy.

Yolanda Willis, Associate Vice President of Camp Fire First Texas

“Being a recipient of the Texas Women’s Foundation grant reflects the intentional support for our apprenticeship program. This funding strengthens our workforce initiative in which women make up the majority serving as early educators in childcare centers. Together, we are expanding access to professional development that empowers early educators to enhance their skills and positively impact children ages 0 to 5.”