Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has announced that Renda Mathew has been named Chair-Elect. Mathew will serve a two-year term beginning July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2029. She will succeed Cris Zertuche Wong who continues as Board Chair through June 30, 2027.

As Chair-Elect, Mathew will serve on the Foundation’s Executive Committee alongside Cris Zertuche Wong, President & CEO Karen Hughes White and the following Board Directors:   

*Jana Etheridge – Board Secretary | Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff, Capital One

*Lisette Mendez – Finance Committee Chair | Vice President Finance & Latin America Controller, AT&T

*Aracely Muñoz – Governance Committee Chair | Director, Corporate Partnerships, Children’s Health

*Hattie Hill – Board Director | CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises

* Holly Tucker – Board Director | Partner, Deloitte Risk & Financial Advisory

TXWF also welcomes three new Board Directors:

• Laura Baldwin: Executive Vice President, WBR Partners
• Ashleigh Everett: Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Hunt Oil Company
• Julie Knecht, CPA, MBA: Chief Financial Officer, Texas Instruments

For a complete list of the 2026-27 Board Directors, visit here.

Mathew said, “I’m honored to serve as Board Chair-Elect during such a pivotal time for Texas women, their families, and their futures, and I look forward to working alongside the Foundation’s incredible Board and staff to build #StrongWomenBetterTexas and a strong and vibrant Texas for all.”  

Hughes White added, “We are grateful for the leadership, passion, and support our Board Directors bring to our mission. With their guidance, Texas Women's Foundation has embarked on a new, three-year strategic plan that centers our research as a core competency that informs our grantmaking and advocacy work, as well as our investments in education, leadership training, and workforce development. The plan also calls for increased collaboration with grantees and funders to drive measurable, systemic change and scalable impact." 

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 report on the economic issues that face Texas women and their families 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.

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.

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 40^th 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 40^th 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.”

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) announces Christine Baranski, an Emmy, two-time Tony, Screen Actors Guild, Drama Desk and American Comedy Award winner, as its featured speaker at its “Ruby Anniversary Luncheon” on Friday, November 14, 2025, (11:30-1:00 p.m.) at the Omni Dallas Hotel (555 S. Lamar St., Dallas, 75202). She is best known for her performances in The Good Wife, The Good Fight, The Big Bang Theory, Mamma Mia, The Gilded Age and multiple theater roles.

TXWF Board Chair Cris Zertuche Wong said, “Christine Baranski’s platform aligns perfectly with Texas Women’s Foundation, and we are excited to welcome her to Dallas. Her unapologetic advocacy for female empowerment and her drive for equal educational opportunities, equal pay and equal rights paint a transformative portrait of what it means to advocate for others.” 

To celebrate TXWF’s 40-year legacy of impact, this year’s Event Co-Chairs are leaders who represent the Foundation’s four decades: Gail Griswold and Brenda Jackson (1980s), Laura Estrada (1990s), Helen Frank (2000s), and Shonn Brown (2020s).

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White added, “As we celebrate our 40^th year, we also celebrate our 19 diverse and determined Founders whose vision for an equitable society in which women and girls could fully participate has guided us since inception. We’ll also be celebrating more than $85 million invested in transforming the lives of Texas women and girls.”

The Foundation’s 11 living Founders will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs for the Ruby Anniversary Luncheon:

• Susan Shamburger Bagwell
• The Honorable Harryette Ehrhardt
• Catalina E. Garcia, M.D.
• Frances Griffin-Brown
• Helen LaKelly Hunt
• The Honorable Kay Bailey Hutchison
• Madeline Mandell
• Patricia Meadows
• Gwendolyn Oliver
• CoYoTe PheoNix
• Rebecca R. Sykes

Special thank you to speaker sponsor Target and The Suzanne Ahn, M.D. Speaker Endowment Fund.

About Texas Women’s Foundation’s Annual Luncheon: 

This signature event is hosted each fall in support of Texas Women’s Foundation’s work to create a truly equitable society in which Texas women and girls can fully participate. The mission is achieved through research, advocacy, intentional grantmaking and evidence-based programs made possible by the Foundation’s generous donors. For those interested in supporting this year’s “Ruby Anniversary Luncheon,” as a partner or patron, please contact Joy Busch or Anne Leary at luncheon@txwf.org. Visit https://txwf.org/join-us/events/ for more details. 

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 that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested more than $85 million in Texas women and girls. As the organization prepares celebrates 40 years of impact, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld 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 evidence-based programs 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 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 to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

Texas Women’s Foundation, a leading organization that advances leadership and economic opportunities for Texas women and girls, announces the launch of its Executive Leadership Accelerator (ELA)—a bespoke leadership experience designed exclusively for senior-level executive women preparing for partner or C-suite roles. Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, shared this news at the D CEO Women’s Leadership Symposium on June 17.

Grounded in research and purposefully built for deep personal and professional growth, the Executive Leadership Accelerator blends immersive leadership development, 1:1 executive coaching, and a mission-aligned capstone project—creating a powerful, cohort-based experience for women preparing for higher levels of leadership and impact in their careers and communities. Most importantly, it supports Texas Women’s Foundation’s commitment to investing in women’s lifecycle leadership development.

Texas Women’s Foundation’s Executive Leadership Accelerator will be delivered in a hybrid format combining immersive in-person and virtual sessions, personalized leadership assessments, and powerful networking opportunities with support from an executive sponsor. Participants will also collaborate on a capstone project that puts leadership into action, while championing the mission of Texas Women’s Foundation.

Those interested in applying should meet these criteria:

• Senior-level leaders with 15+ years of experience in for-profit Texas organizations who are preparing for partner or C-suite roles.
• Executives currently leading business units or strategic initiatives with significant P&L responsibilities; and
• Experienced leaders identified as “ready now” or “ready next” for key leadership roles.

Hughes White added, “The Executive Leadership Accelerator is designed with a bold vision: to drive meaningful, systemic change for leaders and the organizations they serve, while advancing Texas Women’s Foundation’s mission through every participant’s journey. Women occupy only 28% of the top executive positions in Texas, so that showed us this program is needed to help that number increase.”

Applications will be accepted now through August 25. The program will kick off in October and run through May 2026. For more information and to apply, visit www.txwf.org/executiveleadershipaccelerator or email leadership@txwf.org.  

The program is designed and delivered by Challenger, Gray & Christmas in partnership with Texas Women’s Foundation. This strong collaboration highlights the Foundation’s continued commitment to accelerating women’s leadership and advancing equity across Texas.

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 more than $6 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $85 million in Texas women and girls. As the organization prepares to celebrate its 40^th year, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld has never been more critical. 

The Foundation’s statewide research on the 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 leadership programs 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 impact investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, X, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate.