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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.”

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Texas Woman's University Jen Hatmaker, New York Times best-selling author, podcaster speaker and advocate photo: Leo Gonzalez/TWU

Award-winning journalist and ABC 20/20 co-anchor Deborah Roberts and Jen Hatmaker, New York Times best-selling author, podcaster speaker and advocate, were the featured speakers for "Leading the Lone Star State: Texas Women in Public Service Summit" on Sept. 19 at the Denton Convention Center. Hosted by the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University (JNIWL), the summit was a one-day conference uniting women in the fields of public administration, elected office, and government—as well as women who aspire to public roles—through informative sessions, inspirational speakers and networking opportunities.

The opening welcome included remarks by Jane Nelson, former Texas Secretary of State; Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth; and Texas Woman’s University Chancellor and President Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D. Led by leaders in their fields, the breakout sessions featured panels on advocacy, strategic partnerships, politics, executive presence and leadership.

Maureen Zappala, speaker, author and High Altitude Strategies founder, was the opening session speaker discussing imposter syndrome.

Deborah Roberts:

The keynote conversation with Roberts was moderated by Sara Madsen Miller, a JNIWL advisory board member and COO and co-owner of 1820 Productions, an award-winning Dallas-based video production company.

Roberts, one of seven daughters, shared the following advice with the audience:

  • “Believe in your purpose.”
  • “Nothing will work unless you do.” (Maya Angelou)
  • Barbara Walters gave Roberts this advice: “Sometimes you have to outlast your detractors.”
  • When Roberts failed at her first live shot, her boss sent her back out to do another live shot that evening. She remarked, “Failure can be a powerful teacher if you’re willing to stay in the game.”
  • “Be self-assured. Know your story. Don’t doubt who you are.”

Jen Hatmaker:

Hatmaker, whose new Awake: A Memoir, just published, shared her advice and perspective:

  • “I’m grateful for the way you serve the state and the community. Give me a room full of women in leadership all the live long day.”
  • “No matter how bad it is, you have to invite people into your story—the ones who love you. It’s far more courageous to ask people for help.”

Another highlight of the day included Shannon Mantaro, Texas Woman’s University’s executive director and chief officer of the JNIWL, presenting the JNIWL Distinguished Public Service Award to The Honorable Myra Crownover, a retired Texas House of Representatives member (2000-2016) who formerly represented District 64, which includes Denton County.

ABOUT THE JANE NELSON INSTITUTE FOR WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP

The Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University is dedicated to preparing women for successful careers in business and public service. Its three specialized centers—Center for Leadership Research and Workforce Development, Center for Women Entrepreneurs and Center for Women in Government—ensure women have the education to establish careers as successful executives, the skills for building entrepreneurial businesses and the framework needed to excel in public service. Find out more at twu.edu/lead, or connect with JNIWL on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

ABOUT TWU

Texas Woman’s University is the nation’s largest woman-focused university system with campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Founded in 1901, TWU has built a reputation on contributions in nursing, healthcare, education, the arts and sciences, and business. TWU’s inclusive culture prioritizes experiential learning, leadership, service, discovery, and health and well-being, and national media have recognized the university as a top college for student-parents, veterans, and social mobility. In 2023, TWU publicly launched Dream Big, a fundraising effort that has raised more than $160 million to date to support programming, equipment, scholarships, and faculty. In 2026, the university will celebrate the 125th anniversary of its founding. To learn more about the campaign or the university, visit dreambig.twu.eduor twu.edu, or connect with TWU on Facebook @TexasWomansUniversity, Instagram @txwomans, Twitter @txwomans, and LinkedIn @texaswomansuniversity.

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Christine Baranski

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 40th 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

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Cris Zertuche Wong

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has announced that Cris Zertuche Wong has been named Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Directors beginning this month. Wong will serve a two-year term as Board Chair through June 30, 2027. She succeeds Carrie Freeman Parsons.

In partnership with the TXWF President & CEO Karen Hughes White, Wong will lead the organization alongside Executive Committee:

  • Cris Zertuche Wong – Chair (Retired, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs)
  • Carrie Freeman Parsons – Immediate Past Chair (Chair of the Board, Freeman Company)
  • Jana Etheridge – 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 – Member-At-Large (CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises)
  • Holly Tucker – Member-At-Large (Partner, Deloitte Risk & Financial Advisory)
  • Karen Hughes White – President and CEO, Texas Women’s Foundation 

In addition, TXWF has added new board members:

  • Vanessa Salinas Beckstrom, Partner, PwC
  • Patricia Rodriguez Christian, CEO, CRG Group Inc.
  • Katie Edwards, Chief Impact Officer & President, Mavs Foundation at Dallas Mavericks
  • Candice Hill, Southwest Segment Head, JPMorgan Chase & Co
  • Marty McDonald, Founder & CEO, Boss Women Media & CEO, Elle Olivia  

For a complete list of Board Directors, visit here.

Wong said, “I’m honored to build on the legacy of impact created by the Foundation’s founders nearly 40 years ago. In so many ways, Texas women and girls have never needed us more.”

 Hughes White added, “The strength of Texas Women’s Foundation is a direct result of the tireless volunteers who give generously of their time, talent and treasure in support of our mission. We are so grateful for the leadership of Carrie Freeman Parsons, and look forward to the impact Cris Zertuche Wong will have on the Foundation as we celebrate 40 years of 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 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 40th 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, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

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Texas Women's Foundation

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 40th 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.

 

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LFAC 2025 Dr. Carine Feyten, Haleigh Jones, Dr. Rupa DeSilva, Anne Chow, Jennifer Bartkowski, Cristal Retana Lule

As part of its ongoing investment in lifecycle leadership development for women and girls, Texas Women’s Foundation hosted a powerful day of leadership, learning and inspiration on May 8th at the Omni Dallas Hotel. From thought-provoking conversations to unforgettable moments honoring trailblazing women and rising young leaders, the day helped support the Foundation’s mission of building #StrongWomenBetterTexas

The day began with #BESTSELF, where nearly 200 students who came together for engaging workshops focused on making smart, informed decisions, navigating the physical and emotional changes of adolescence, and harnessing the power of their voices to create meaningful change. From the interactive learning sessions to networking, dancing, and connecting with peers, #BESTSELF inspired and delighted all in attendance.  

In the afternoon, TXWF hosted its annual Leadership Forum – a dynamic masterclass featuring microlearning sessions with the recipients of the 2025 Maura and Young Leader Awards. Author, speaker and 2025 Maura Award recipient Anne Chow kicked things off with a Ted Talk-style “ANNE Talk,” sharing insights from her book Lead Bigger. TXWF Board Director Deborah Hunter Johnson led a ”POWER Panel” discussion on advancing women and girls in STEM with 2025 Maura awardees Dr. Carine Feyten, Dr. Nuripama “Rupa” DeSilva, and Jennifer Bartkowski. Afterward, the crowd was treated to exciting “5 in 5” interviews in which two young students from Irma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, a Young Women’s Preparatory Network School, asked five “rapid-fire questions in five minutes of TXWF’s 2025 Young Leader awardees Haleigh Jones and Cristal Retana Lule. The Forum wrapped up with some “REAL Talk” between Anne Chow and NBC5 Anchor Deborah Ferguson.

At the Celebration Dinner following the Forum, event co-chairs Debbie Dennis, Chief Customer Officer and SVP Human Resources and Corporate Affairs at Oncor Electric Delivery, and Brooke Hopkins, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, welcomed attendees and thanked key partners. ( (See list at the end of the release)*

Texas Women’s Foundation Board Chair Carrie Freeman Parsons greeted event guests, sharing, “With clarity of purpose and your support, we’ve continued to fulfill our mission and grow our impact year over year for the past 39 years.” Carrie also introduced the individuals who nominated the 2025 Young Leader awardees:  

The Foundation shared a compelling video on the barriers to women’s economic security, stability and success, after which Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White shared, “On average, women make 83 cents on the dollar compared to their male counterparts. This number is much lower for Black and Hispanic women. Based on this, the average Texas woman stands to lose $750,000 in earnings across her lifetime. If this makes you mad, it should! We need to work together to create change.” She invited attendees to support the Foundation’s efforts to advance Texas women and girls and encouraged giving to maximize a $40,000 matching gift. More than $45,000 was raised in the room.

Awards Selection Committee Co-chair and previous Maura Award recipient Brenda Jackson introduced the 2025 Maura honorees and their presenters.

Dia Wall, WFAA anchor and reporter, hosted a conversation with the 2025 Maura Award recipients who shared their insight on everything from healthcare, to education, the wage gap and increased representation of women and Women of Color in leadership.

Incoming TXWF Board Chair, Cris Zertuche Wong closed out the program by thanking all in attendance and sharing, “Texas Women's Foundation is investing in lifecycle leadership development for women – from the classroom to the boardroom – preparing them to lead in their workplaces, lives and communities. Because we know that when you invest in a woman, she invests in her family and her community! And because we believe that when a woman rises, she lifts everyone around her.”

She invited guests to attend TXWF’s upcoming 40th Annual Luncheon at the Omni Hotel on November 14.

Partners:

Merrill, a Bank of America Company, and Crockett & Associates

Haynes Boone

Oncor

Media Sponsors: D CEO, Dallas Business Journal

#BESTSELF sponsor: Capital One

Additional partners:

Catherine M Coughlin Fund for Women's Leadership of TXWF

Maura McNiel Fund for Women's Leadership of Texas Women’s Foundation

TWU Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership

The Rewired CEO

Marshalling Resources

Southwest Airlines; and

EY

For additional partners and patrons, visit https://txwf.org/join-us/events/lfac-event/

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

One of the largest women’s foundations in the country, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) knows that now more than ever is the time to create more equitable communities to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld. TXWF raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $6 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and strategic/educational initiatives. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $85 million in Texas women and girls. The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and educational initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls survive and thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a gendered impact portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

 

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Texas Women's Foundation Haleigh Jones (Young Leader), Cristal Retana Lule (Young Leader), Cynt Marshall (Maura Award), Debbie Dennis (co-chair), Karen Hughes White (TXWF pres./CEO), Jennifer Bartkowski (Maura Award), Anne Chow (Maura Award), Carrie Freeman Parsons (TXWF board chair), Brooke Hopkins (co-chair); not pictured: Dr. Rupa DeSilva, Dr. Carine Feyten, both Maura Award honorees.

Texas Women's Foundation hosts its Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration on May 8, 2025, at the Omni Dallas Hotel (555. S. Lamar St., Dallas, TX 75202). A highlight is the Leadership Forum, presented by Merrill, a Bank of America Company/Crockett & Associates, where the 2025 Maura and Young Leader awardees will share insight and inspiration in micro-learning sessions from 4:00-5:30 p.m. Afterwards, there will be a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and an awards celebration, presented by Oncor Electric Delivery, at 6:30 p.m. Individual tickets are now on sale at https://txwf.org/join-us/events/lfac-event/. 

Anne Talk: “Lead Bigger”

Presented by Anne Chow, The Rewired CEO Founder  

In a “TED Talk-style” keynote, Chow will share insights from her recent book, Lead Bigger. She will also explore the transformative power of connectedness to create stronger businesses and more vibrant communities. 

Power Panel: Women, Girls & STEM, moderated by TXWF Board Director Debra Hunter Johnson, Reciprocity Consulting and featuring: 

2025 Maura Award recipients Bartkowski, Dr. DeSilva and Dr. Feyten will explore how increasing representation in STEM not only empowers women and girls, but it also drives innovation, enhances problem-solving and strengthens the entire sector.

Young Leader “5-in-5’s”

Haleigh Jones, Crawford, Wishnew & Lang Attorney 

Cristal Retana Lule, Children’s Health Vice President of Community Relations 

The 2025 Young Leader award recipients, Jones and Retana Lule will answer five “rapid-fire” questions in five minutes in interviews conducted by aspiring young journalists from Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, a school in the Young Women’s Preparatory Network.

Real Talk with Anne Chow, moderated by Deborah Ferguson, NBC Anchor 

Chow will discuss her journey to becoming AT&T’s first woman of color CEO, how she navigated that historic role, and what leadership lessons she learned.

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White said, “The heart of the Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration is getting to know our  honorees and hear how they have learned and continued to grow in their careers and in service to their communities. I know you will be inspired, encouraged and empowered by their stories.”

Co-chairs for the event are business and community leaders Debbie Dennis, Chief Customer Officer and SVP Human Resources and Corporate Affairs at Oncor Electric Delivery, and Brooke Hopkins, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal. Dia Wall, WFAA anchor/reporter, will emcee the evening awards celebration.

To learn more about this event and purchase a sponsorship, visit https://txwf.org/join-us/events/lfac-event/ For those interested in sponsorship, contact Joy Busch at maura@txwf.orgor 214-525-5321.

About Texas Women’s Foundation: One of the largest women’s foundations in the country, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) knows that now more than ever is the time to create more equitable communities to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld. TXWF raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $6 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and strategic/educational initiatives. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $85 million in Texas women and girls. The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and educational initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls survive and thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a gendered impact portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

About the Maura Women Helping Women Award:

For 46 years, the Maura Women Helping Women Award has been presented to more than 230 courageous individuals who have catalyzed change for women and girls.

Brenda Jackson, a former Maura Women Helping Women Award recipient and TXWF Board Director, and Carrie Freeman Parsons, TXWF Board Chair co-chaired the 2025 Award Selection Committee that chose the following honorees:

Cynt Marshall, Marshalling Resources Founder and The Dallas Mavericks (retired CEO) 

Cynt Marshall has been a dynamic force in business over a 36-year career at AT&T.  When she was hired as the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks in March 2018, she set her sights on a culture transformation. Her vision was for the Mavericks organization to become the NBA standard for inclusion, diversity, and workplace culture, and the Dallas Mavericks have twice received the NBA’s Inclusion Leadership award. She is  founder of Marshalling Resources, a consulting firm. Her first book, You’ve Been Chosen, was released in September 2022 and was nominated for an NAACP Image award. Marshall is the recipient of several honors and awards including the 2024 Lone Star EMMYS President’s award, the 2024 Junior Achievement of Dallas Business Hall of Fame Laureate award, among others. She graduated from the University of California at Berkeley with degrees in Business Administration and Human Resources Management and holds four honorary Doctorate degrees.

Anne Chow, The Rewired CEO Founder 

Anne Chow is a transformative business leader whose trailblazing corporate career spans over three decades. She is currently Lead Independent Director on the Board of Directors of Franklin Covey and serves on the boards of 3M and CSX. She is a Senior Fellow and Adjunct Professor of Executive Education at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and the national best-selling author of LEAD BIGGER: The Transformative Power of Inclusion. In her prior role as CEO of AT&T Business, she was the first woman of color CEO in AT&T’s 140+ year history, responsible for leading a $35B global operating unit comprised of over 35,000 people. Widely recognized for her role model leadership, Chow was named to Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business twice, Forbes inaugural CEO Next List of Leaders set to revolutionize American business and was inducted into the Dallas Business Hall of Fame. 

Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D., Texas Woman’s University Chancellor and President 

Since 2014, Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D. has served as chancellor of the Texas Woman’s University System and president of Texas Woman’s University, the nation’s largest university with a woman-focused mission. Spearheading the largest construction boom in the university’s history (nearly $500 million) and first ever comprehensive campaign, she has more than tripled the endowment, launched many major initiatives such as the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership and the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences focusing on preparing women pilots. Personally, she is deeply committed to amplifying the impact that emerges from TWU’s distinctive campus where women comprise 90% of the student body. She has made strategic investments to extend the university’s mission to whole-person development. Her leadership fosters a supportive environment that prepares graduates to succeed in today’s complex global society. These efforts were recognized by the American Council on Education with the 2023 ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation.

Jennifer Bartkowski, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas CEO 

Jennifer Bartkowski is the Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas (GSNETX), having held multiple leadership roles over the last 15 years. She pioneered a national Girl Scout STEM initiative built on the success of the $15M STEM Center of Excellence in southwest Dallas to change the workforce pipeline for North Texas. She is now leading a transformational strategy to reimagine Girl Scouts to serve more girls in more communities in more inclusive ways. Bartkowski holds a Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M University and has worked with a variety of organizations including United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the American Lung Association of Texas. She serves as Chair of the Leadership Dallas Alumnae Association and The Dallas Summit, Board Chair of Black Women in Nonprofit Leadership, sits on the Aggie Women Network Board of Directors, and is a founding board member of Carson’s Village.

Nirupama “Rupa” DeSilva, M.D., Parkland Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center Professor 

Nirupama “Rupa” DeSilva, M.D. is a Professor of OBGYN at UT Southwestern.  A specialist in pediatric-adolescent gynecology, her clinical practice is at Children’s Medical Center. Dr. DeSilva also serves as Parkland’s Medical Director of Family Planning and Child Poverty Action Lab’s Expert in Residence. Throughout her career, Dr. DeSilva has had great interest in increasing access to effective medical care within her community, as well as educating people about their reproductive needs so that patients can decide if a contraceptive option is best for them. In her role as Medical Director of Family Planning, she is dedicated to working with her team to increase access to women’s health for marginalized women through innovation. In this vein, she has created many new projects, including a new mobile van that can make access to contraception easier for those women who desire it.  

About the Young Leader Award: 

The Young Leader Award recognizes breakthrough leadership exhibited by a trailblazer who is achieving success in a field, initiative or sector, and creating a path of opportunity for other women to follow. This year’s recipients:

Haleigh Jones, Crawford, Wishnew & Lang Attorney 

Haleigh Jones is an attorney practicing civil litigation in Dallas. She handles trials and appeals in high-stakes, commercial cases. She uses her law degree to effect positive change and advance the lives of women in Texas, most recently pursuing a school district for violations of Title IX that led to sexual abuse of a female minor student. Jones is a mentor in and servant of her local and state bar associations. She served as the president of the 2024 Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, a 2,500-member bar association with more than 30 committees whose two-fold mission is to improve the lives of young lawyers and to improve the DFW community. In 2021, the Dallas Women Lawyers Association recognized Jones as its “Rising Raggio.” The award, named after Louise Raggio, recognizes an outstanding young woman lawyer who has had significant professional accomplishment and acted as a leader in the Dallas community.

Cristal Retana Lule, Children’s Health Vice President of Community Relations 

Cristal Retana Lule is committed to advancing equitable access to opportunities and resources to enhance the overall quality of life for all. As Vice President of Community Relations at Children’s Health, she leads the organization's community outreach initiatives also focusing on local and regional advocacy. Lule is a first-generation Texas and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. She began her public policy career as a legislative staffer in the Texas Senate and has held several influential roles at both the state and local levels. She also served as Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Farmers Branch where she launched several initiatives including the city’s first night court, youth commission, senior repair program and more. Lule has received numerous accolades, including the 2024 League of Women Voters Volunteer Award, 2023 DFW Hispanic 100 Emerging Latina Leader Award and was recently appointed to serve as the 2025 state chair-elect for the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas.

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Women and the Wage Gap

As a follow-on to its 2024 Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report, Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has released new data on the impact of the wage gap on women, families, and the state’s economy.

In the white paper, “Texas Women and the Wage Gap: A Corporate Leader’s Guide to Driving Workforce Sustainability,” TXWF shares that the annual impact of the wage gap has grown 27% since 2019 to a staggering $60.1 billion annually in lost earnings and economic activity. Over her lifetime, the average Texas woman stands to lose $750,000 in earnings, impacting her ability to achieve economic security, stability and success – for herself and her family.    

Karen Hughes White, president and CEO of Texas Women’s Foundation, said, “Women represent 46% of the workforce in Texas and drive much of the growth and innovation of the state’s $2.4 trillion economy. Couple that with population projections that indicate the continued, outpaced growth of women in Texas and the business case is clear. To sustain the level of economic success we enjoy here in Texas, the time is now to invest in women and that starts with closing the wage gap.”

As a core pillar of its mission, TXWF invests in women’s lifecycle leadership development through programs like #BestSelf (teens); the statewide Young Women’s Initiative in partnership with IGNITE (college women); and networking groups like Nineteen (early to mid-career professionals) and the Executive Leadership Council. Each year TXWF recognizes outstanding women leaders at its Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration. This year’s event will take place on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Dallas Omni and will honor five recipients of the Maura “Women Helping Women” Awards and two Young Leaders under 40 years old.

Key findings from the white paper are highlighted below and are included in a Key Facts document available on the organization’s website, txwf.org/research. In addition, TXWF will be hosting free Work Smart™ salary negotiation workshops in partnership with the American Association of University Women. These virtual workshops will take place on April 17 and May 15 and participants can register online.

Hughes White added, “We’re releasing this data intentionally today. March 25th is recognized as ‘Equal Pay Day,’ representing the amount of extra time women have to work in order to earn as much as much as men did in the previous year. Unfortunately, this date is tied specifically to white women; Black and Hispanic women work much longer to achieve equal pay. The time is now to change that.” 

Texas Women & the Wage Gap: Key Findings:

  • Representing 46% of the Texas workforce, women play a pivotal role in driving the growth and innovation of the state's $2.4 trillion economy.
  • Texas women earn an average of 83% of what Texas men earn and Women of Color earn even less.
  • This equates to $60.1 billion in lost earnings for women each year and has a direct impact on consumer spending and economic growth.
  • The wage gap in Texas has widened over time, growing more than 27% since 2019.
  • Over her lifetime, the average Texas woman stands to lose $750,000 in earnings, impacting her ability to achieve economic security, stability, and success for herself and her family.
  • Sadly, the wage gap widens as women achieve advanced degrees. Women with graduate or professional degrees earn $37,000 less each year than their male counterparts.
  • The lack of access to affordable child care has an additional $11.4 billion annual impact in lost productivity.

To read the white paper and the 2024 Economic Issues for Women in Texas, visit www.txwf.org/research.

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 40th 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, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

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Cynt Marshall Marshalling Resources Founder and The Dallas Mavericks (retired CEO)

Texas Women’s Foundation has announced details of its Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration on May 8, 2025, at the Omni Dallas Hotel (555 S. Lamar St., Dallas, TX 75202).

The day begins with #BESTSELF, an event designed to empower teen girls to prioritize their health and wellbeing, develop strong communication and conflict resolution skills and lean into leadership opportunities. The evening dinner and Awards Celebration honors the 2025 Maura Women Helping Women and Young Leader recipients.

Co-chairs for the event are business and community leaders Debbie Dennis, Chief Customer Officer and SVP Human Resources and Corporate Affairs at Oncor Electric Delivery, and Brooke Hopkins, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal.

Texas Women’s Foundation President and CEO Karen Hughes White said, “We invite you to join us on May 8th as we pour into the next generation of leaders at #BESTSELF and then hear from our stellar slate of honorees who have dedicated themselves and their careers to uplifting women, girls and families to strengthen our communities.”

Maura Women Helping Women Award:

For 46 years, the Maura Women Helping Women Award has been presented to more than 230 courageous individuals who have catalyzed change for women and girls. Brenda Jackson, selection co-chair and former Maura Women Helping Women Award recipient, and Carrie Freeman Parsons, TXWF Board Chair and selection co-chair, led the committee to select the following honorees:

Cynt Marshall, Marshalling Resources Founder and The Dallas Mavericks (retired CEO)

Cynt Marshall has been a dynamic force in business over a 36-year career at AT&T.  When she was hired as the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks in March 2018, she set her sights on a culture transformation. Her vision was for the Mavericks organization to become the NBA standard for inclusion, diversity, and workplace culture, and the Dallas Mavericks have twice received the NBA’s Inclusion Leadership award. She is  founder of Marshalling Resources, a consulting firm. Her first book, You’ve Been Chosen, was released in September 2022 and was nominated for an NAACP Image award. Marshall is the recipient of several honors and awards including the 2024 Lone Star EMMYS President’s award, the 2024 Junior Achievement of Dallas Business Hall of Fame Laureate award, among others. She graduated from the University of California at Berkeley with degrees in Business Administration and Human Resources Management and holds four honorary Doctorate degrees.

Anne Chow, The Rewired CEO Founder

Anne Chow is a transformative business leader whose trailblazing corporate career spans over three decades. She is currently Lead Independent Director on the Board of Directors of Franklin Covey and serves on the boards of 3M and CSX. She is a Senior Fellow and Adjunct Professor of Executive Education at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and the national best-selling author of LEAD BIGGER: The Transformative Power of Inclusion. In her prior role as CEO of AT&T Business, she was the first woman of color CEO in AT&T’s 140+ year history, responsible for leading a $35B global operating unit comprised of over 35,000 people. Widely recognized for her role model leadership, Chow was named to Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business twice, Forbes inaugural CEO Next List of Leaders set to revolutionize American business and was inducted into the Dallas Business Hall of Fame.

Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D., Texas Woman’s University Chancellor and President

Since 2014, Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D. has served as chancellor of the Texas Woman’s University System and president of Texas Woman’s University, the nation’s largest university with a woman-focused mission. Spearheading the largest construction boom in the university’s history (nearly $500 million) and first ever comprehensive campaign, she has more than tripled the endowment, launched many major initiatives such as the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership and the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences focusing on preparing women pilots. Personally, she is deeply committed to amplifying the impact that emerges from TWU’s distinctive campus where women comprise 90% of the student body. She has made strategic investments to extend the university’s mission to whole-person development. Her leadership fosters a supportive environment that prepares graduates to succeed in today’s complex global society. These efforts were recognized by the American Council on Education with the 2023 ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation.

Jennifer Bartkowski, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas CEO

Jennifer Bartkowski is the Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas (GSNETX), having held multiple leadership roles over the last 15 years. She pioneered a national Girl Scout STEM initiative built on the success of the $15M STEM Center of Excellence in southwest Dallas to change the workforce pipeline for North Texas. She is now leading a transformational strategy to reimagine Girl Scouts to serve more girls in more communities in more inclusive ways. Bartkowski holds a Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M University and has worked with a variety of organizations including United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the American Lung Association of Texas. She serves as Chair of the Leadership Dallas Alumnae Association and The Dallas Summit, Board Chair of Black Women in Nonprofit Leadership, sits on the Aggie Women Network Board of Directors, and is a founding board member of Carson’s Village.

Nirupama “Rupa” DeSilva, M.D., Parkland Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center Professor

Nirupama “Rupa” DeSilva, M.D. is a Professor of OBGYN at UT Southwestern.  A specialist in pediatric-adolescent gynecology, her clinical practice is at Children’s Medical Center. Dr. DeSilva also serves as Parkland’s Medical Director of Family Planning and Child Poverty Action Lab’s Expert in Residence. Throughout her career, Dr. DeSilva has had great interest in increasing access to effective medical care within her community, as well as educating people about their reproductive needs so that patients can decide if a contraceptive option is best for them. In her role as Medical Director of Family Planning, she is dedicated to working with her team to increase access to women’s health for marginalized women through innovation. In this vein, she has created many new projects, including a new mobile van that can make access to contraception easier for those women who desire it. 

Young Leader Award:

The Young Leader Award recognizes breakthrough leadership exhibited by a trailblazer who is achieving success in a field, initiative or sector, and creating a path of opportunity for other women to follow. This year’s recipients:

Haleigh Jones, Crawford, Wishnew & Lang Attorney

Haleigh Jones is an attorney practicing civil litigation in Dallas. She handles trials and appeals in high-stakes, commercial cases. She uses her law degree to effect positive change and advance the lives of women in Texas, most recently pursuing a school district for violations of Title IX that led to sexual abuse of a female minor student. Jones is a mentor in and servant of her local and state bar associations. She served as the president of the 2024 Dallas Association of Young Lawyers, a 2,500-member bar association with more than 30 committees whose two-fold mission is to improve the lives of young lawyers and to improve the DFW community. In 2021, the Dallas Women Lawyers Association recognized Jones as its “Rising Raggio.” The award, named after Louise Raggio, recognizes an outstanding young woman lawyer who has had significant professional accomplishment and acted as a leader in the Dallas community.


Cristal Retana Lule, Children’s Health Vice President of Community Relations

Cristal Retana Lule is committed to advancing equitable access to opportunities and resources to enhance the overall quality of life for all. As Vice President of Community Relations at Children’s Health, she leads the organization's community outreach initiatives also focusing on local and regional advocacy. Lule is a first-generation Texas and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. She began her public policy career as a legislative staffer in the Texas Senate and has held several influential roles at both the state and local levels. She also served as Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Farmers Branch where she launched several initiatives including the city’s first night court, youth commission, senior repair program and more. Lule has received numerous accolades, including the 2024 League of Women Voters Volunteer Award, 2023 DFW Hispanic 100 Emerging Latina Leader Award and was recently appointed to serve as the 2025 state chair-elect for the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas.

To learn more about this event and purchase a sponsorship, visit https://txwf.org/join-us/events/lfac-event/ For those interested in sponsorship, contact Joy Busch at maura@txwf.org or 214-525-5321.

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

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

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

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Texas Women's Foundation's Luncheon 2024 Ann Curry, Krys Boyd

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) held its 39th Annual Luncheon on November 1st at the Omni Dallas. The luncheon raised nearly $750,000 to continue its important work of advancing the lives of girls, women and their families.

Immediately prior to the luncheon, TXWF donors and grantees gathered for a reception honoring the organization’s 2024 Community Grant Awards recipients. With support from donors, fundholders and philanthropic partners, more than $867,000 was granted to 23 deserving non-profit organizations serving women and girls in North Texas.

The luncheon began with a powerful spoken word performance by Miss Texas 2024, Annette Addo-Yobo. As a first-generation American woman holding this title, Annette knows firsthand what it means to overcome obstacles. In her piece titled “Texas Woman,” she spoke passionately about the need for women to own their worth and carry their truth forward despite persistent inequities and barriers.

TXWF’s 39th Annual Luncheon Chair and Executive Vice President, Head of Community Development and Corporate Responsibility for Texas Capital Bank, Effie Dennison, thanked Annette, welcomed guests and acknowledged event sponsors (see list at end). “Guided by research that dives deeply into the economic issues facing women in Texas, Texas Women’s Foundation invests in grantmaking, advocacy and leadership training to help remove barriers for women and create opportunities for them to not only survive, but to thrive.”

An inspiring video about the impact of the Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center followed Effie’s remarks; and a video about Storytime Childcare highlighted the importance of quality, affordable child care for working families. Texas Women’s Foundation’s President and CEO Karen Hughes White, said, “Each one of you in this room – through your passion for Texas women and girls and your generosity of spirit – has the power to change lives. And it’s exactly what we’re going to ask you to do today. But first, I want to pose a question that I hope you’ll discuss at your tables over lunch: How can it be that our great state of Texas – with the strongest economy in the nation – and reportedly, the 8th largest in the world – ranks 47th out of 50 states across 25 different indicators for women’s economic security and success?”

White introduced a video about the vital care a mother received from Health Services of North Texas when she needed it most – as she gave birth to her second child, Samuel. As the video ended with Samuel smiling brightly into the camera, White asked luncheon guests to support the Foundation’s mission by making a donation.

After lunch service, Sousan Ortega, Senior Vice president, Field Operations for Target said, “It's an honor to support today’s conversation that will highlight the great work of highly respected, Emmy Award-winning journalist, Ann Curry, along with the host and Managing Editor of KERA’s Think, Krys Boyd.”

Curry shared her experiences as one of the few women reporters breaking barriers in newsrooms dominated by men. She’s used her platform to bring humanity to her stories and shine a light on people’s lived experiences. Despite facing resistance, she fought tirelessly to stand up for what was right. Throughout her journey, she would envision future women journalists and remind herself that “the women are coming” to help elevate the field.

Curry’s Select Remarks:

“You are now a part of the struggle and we’ve come a long way, but we haven’t crossed the finish line. Women fought to give you a voice. Use it.” Then she shared the story of her grandmother. “My grandmother wanted to vote in an election, but my dad and grandfather wouldn’t drive her to vote because she wasn’t going to vote for the candidate they both wanted her to vote for. Fine. She walked to the election site. Her candidate won.”

“Commit yourself to a life of service.”

“We have to balance risk-taking without fear. We have to step out and take a risk. Everyone has a purpose that only you can bring into the world – take smart risks, fight for the things that are part of your purpose.”

Carrie Freeman Parsons, Texas Women’s Foundation board chair, closed the luncheon with thanks to all the participants, sponsors and attendees.

Special thanks to sponsors:

Initiator of Change: Quantum Connections

Influencers for Change: Target and The Suzanne Ahn Speaker Endowment Fund of Texas Women’s Foundation

Possibilities Partner Igniter of Change: Toyota

Pioneers for Change: Amazon, Ellenore Knight Baker and Roslyn Dawson Thompson, and Southwest Airlines

Incubators for Change: Goldman Sachs, The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated.

Facilitator for Change: Haynes Boone

Energizers for Change: The Dallas Mavericks, Ernst & Young, Kimberly Clark, Texas Capital Bank

For additional sponsors, visit https://www.txwfluncheon.org/2024-sponsors. 

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

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