Staff & Reader Submitted

The Winston School Announces IB Programme During 50th Anniversary Year

Brooke Mayer — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:59:04 Z

By Brooke Mayer

The Winston School in Dallas, Texas has been approved as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP), marking an exciting milestone as the school celebrates its 50th anniversary. The designation begins the process toward offering one of the worlds most respected academic frameworks to students who learn differently.

As a candidate school, Winston will begin faculty training and program development this spring while working toward full authorization. The school will align programs with the MYP framework for students in grades 610 during the 2026-2027 school year. Looking ahead, Winston also intends to add Diploma Programme (DP) candidacy in Fall 2028, with the first cohort of IB Diploma candidates anticipated to graduate in Spring 2030.

The International Baccalaureate is a globally recognized educational framework known for its rigorous, inquiry-based approach to learning. The MYP encourages students to think critically, make interdisciplinary connections, and apply their learning to real-world challenges while developing strong research, communication, and problem-solving skills.

For The Winston Schoola school dedicated to bright students who learn differentlythe IB philosophy closely aligns with its mission. The program emphasizes conceptual understanding, project-based learning, and multiple ways for students to demonstrate mastery, allowing teachers to maintain high expectations while providing the structured support and differentiated instruction learning different students need to succeed.

Once fully implemented, Winston will be the only independent school in Texas, specifically for learning different students, to offer the IB Programme, joining other exemplary schools worldwide that provide this opportunity.

Tomorrows leaders are todays students. The IB Programme offers our talented, incredibly creative students the connectivity, critical thinking, and community engagement essential for nurturing a globally and future-focused mindset. The IB curriculum is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and individualized, making it perfectly aligned to Winston's mission of serving students who learn differently, said Dr. Jenn Milam, the Pamela K. Murfin Head of School.

Founded in 1975, The Winston School in Dallas has spent five decades empowering bright students who learn differently. Launching the IB journey during the schools 50th anniversary year reflects Winstons continued commitment to evolving its academic program while remaining true to its philosophy of providing a high-challenge, high-support environment where students can thrive.

For more information about The Winston School, go to www.winston-school.org.

Coppell Sorority Scholarships Announced - Due November 1st

Paula Rhea — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:00:00 Z

Coppell Alumnae Panhellenic Association (CAPA) will award three (3) $1,000 scholarships this fall. Coppell residents in a National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sorority pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies are eligible. Click here for details on these merit-based scholarships and to apply by November 1^st.

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas kicks off 120th anniversary

Stephanie Patrick — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 16:14:09 Z

Editors: Please post in all the communities. Thank you.

Students, faculty, and staff kicked off Texas A&M University College of Dentistrys 120^th anniversary celebration with a Sip and Celebrate party on Jan. 22. They sipped coffee and hot chocolate and ate churros.

The college opened Oct. 3, 1905, as State Dental College with 40 dental students. Total enrollment for 2024-25 is 580 dental students, graduate students, and dental hygiene students.

Coppell Lions Club Vision Screening for Back to School

Julie Madden — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:55:55 Z

COPPELL LIONS CLUB VISION SCREENING FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

Coppell Lions Club were at the Back to School Fair at Irving Bible Church conducting Spot Vision Screening with the clubs Vision Screening Team led by Lions Tim Decker, Alice Decker, Ron Harrison, Kim Taylor, Kris Pollard, Margaret Meek, Scott Murdock and Debbie Goodwin. Great service project for the Lions. Students received uniforms, backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, Vision Screening, medical assessments and snacks.

Asian Culture and Education Society Youth Explore Research at SMU

ACAES USA — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 23:26:56 Z

In July 2024, students from the Asian Culture and Education Society USA had the exciting opportunity to visit Southern Methodist University (SMU) labs during their summer break. The students were thrilled and inspired, eager to apply their newfound knowledge and pursue research at prestigious institutions like SMU.

During the visit, Professor Zhihao Wu guided the students on a tour of his modern biological research lab. He explained the functions of various equipment in simple terms, making complex scientific concepts accessible to everyone. Professor Wu also shared fascinating insights, such as the reality that, contrary to what movies often portray, lab benches are typically messy due to the numerous reagents required for experiments.

After exploring the main lab, Professor Wu introduced the students to his fruit fly (Drosophila) lab, where he conducts genetic modifications on fruit flies to study disease-related phenotypes. This research could potentially lead to breakthroughs in curing Alzheimer's disease. The tour concluded with a demonstration of a state-of-the-art laser confocal microscope, which can examine molecules layer by layer and display the results on a computer screen.

The visit to SMUs biology labs was both educational and engaging, leaving everyone with new knowledge and a deeper appreciation for scientific research.

Fun Facts:

Thomas Morgan pioneered systematic genetic experiments with fruit flies around 1910-1920.
Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell.
The refrigerators in SMU's Biochemistry Lab are kept at around -80°C to store experimental samples long-term.
Fruit flies, with their short lifespans, are ideal for genetic experiments because results can be observed quickly.
SMU uses mice for experiments, and the Animal Research Center is located in the building's basement.
The lab features an exceptionally powerful microscope for examining molecules.

Jian Xie, President of the Asian Culture and Education Society USA, expressed deep gratitude to Professor Wu for providing such an inspiring and educational tour. She noted that SMU is an excellent institution, and this experience will encourage students to apply to such prestigious colleges with top-tier research opportunities. Jian Xie emphasized that this tour is part of the societys summer training project, designed to motivate students to pursue their interests in science and work diligently toward their goals.

Tokyo Harbor volunteer

Julian. Jefferson, Howard, Diana, Ebony, Jiayi, Meihua, ChenRui, Professor Zhihao and Jan

Plano ISD Education Foundation Presents "Arts Inspire: A Celebration of the Arts with Daveed Diggs"

Kelly Hunter — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 08:54:10 Z

Daveed Diggs, Grammy- and Tony-award winning actor, writer, producer and musician, will participate in a moderated conversation during Arts Inspire: A Celebration of the Arts with Daveed Diggs, the inaugural event of the Plano ISD Education Foundations new lecture series celebrating the arts with the North Texas community.

The event will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 12, at the Robinson Fine Arts Center, 1800 Alma Drive, Plano, TX.

We are incredibly excited to host this event and bring the North Texas community together to celebrate the diverse and vibrant world of the arts, said Brittnea Ussery, senior executive director of the Plano ISD Education Foundation. With the exceptional talent of Daveed Diggs and the variety of artistic experiences we have planned, Arts Inspire will be a night to remember.

Award-winning actor/musician Daveed Diggs will discuss his career journey, from his breakout role as Thomas Jefferson and the Marquis de Lafayette in the original Broadway run of Hamilton, to his current projects in film, TV, theater and music. Diggs unique approach to art, blending traditional techniques with contemporary themes, has earned him international acclaim and a dedicated following.

The arts celebration includes a juried arts faculty showcase in the Legacy Art Gallery of the Center starting at 6:00 p.m. Plano ISD student performers representing theater, orchestra, band, choir and dance will celebrate the arts to open the event at 7:30 p.m.

The Arts Inspire series aims to raise funds and awareness for the Plano ISD Education Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the educational needs of students and teachers in the Plano Independent School District. Proceeds from Arts Inspire: Celebrating the Arts will directly benefit arts programming that enhances educational opportunities, fosters innovation in the classroom and provides vital resources for students and educators.

I am absolutely thrilled to see our students and community come together to celebrate the arts in such a meaningful way. The Arts Inspire series will not only showcase the incredible talent within our district but also emphasize the vital role of arts education in sparking creativity, critical thinking and passion among our students. We are deeply grateful to the Education Foundation for initiating this experience and providing our students with the opportunity to explore and pursue their artistic dreams, said Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams.

In addition to originating the fan-favorite role of Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson in Lin-Manuel Mirandas Hamilton, for which he won a Tony and Grammy in 2016, Diggs is also known for his roles in the critically acclaimed TV series Snowpiercer and a recurring guest role in the popular TV series Blackish. Diggs also serves as the vocalist of the experimental hip hop group Clipping, and he also co-wrote, produced and stars in the film Blindspotting.

Through events like Arts Inspire: Celebrating the Arts, the Plano ISD Education Foundation aims to provide a platform for artists to share their work and inspire future generations.

Ticket prices start at $50 at www.pisd.edu/artsinspire. VIP Meet and Greet tickets are available at $150 and can be purchased with an event ticket. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals who wish to support this important cause while gaining visibility in front of a dedicated audience of arts enthusiasts and community leaders.

For more information about the event, ticket sales, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.pisd.edu/artsinspire .

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About Robinson Fine Arts Center

Robinson Fine Arts Center is a premier cultural and educational institution dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in the Plano Independent School District and the community. Through a diverse range of programs, performances, and events, Robinson Fine Arts seeks to inspire creativity, foster artistic talent, and enhance the cultural life of the community.

About the Plano ISD Education Foundation

The Plano ISD Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that raises private funds to support the educational excellence of Plano Independent School District. The Foundation focuses on initiatives that directly impact students and teachers, ensuring that every child has access to the tools and opportunities needed for academic success.

Shelton Summer Scholars: Transforming Lives Through Intensive Learning

Lisa Kresl — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 07:48:41 Z

By Angelo Piersanti

The Shelton School is a bustling place in the summer, hosting any number of training classes, enrichment opportunities, and academic courses. This includes our Scholars program for students with language-based learning differences who are 6 years of age and above. Students come from all over the metroplex with some families driving from over an hour away.

The Scholars program, part of Sheltons Outreach Department, is designed for students from the community at large who for various reasons are not enrolled at Shelton. The program offers an intensive three-week summer course called Summer Scholars. The program continues to operate in the fall and spring with a 13-week Saturday-only course.

Families typically seek out the Scholars program after realizing that their children are struggling with reading, writing, and spelling. The Scholars program supplements services received at the students schools or takes the place of these services when students are no longer eligible to receive them. Families come for Sheltons resources and reputation, in addition to the convenience and affordability of the program. They stay for the results.

Students are admitted into the program after completing an informal assessment or submitting test results from other evaluation centers. Students are placed into small groups according to ability. In the process of receiving needed intervention, students may realize for the first time that there are many others who share their learning differences. This often sparks engagement and friendship. It turns out that kids like to learn with others who are like them.

Summer Scholars students meet Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. between June 12 and July 3. At the heart of this densely packed program is the Sequential English Education (S.E.E.) curriculum, a comprehensive, multisensory, structured approach to language remediation written by Dr. Joyce Pickering, Sheltons Executive Director Emerita, based on the work of Dr. Charles Shedd.

Dr. Shedds model for training volunteers to help students with dyslexia proved to be a highly effective and low-cost method for providing remediation services. Following this model, Dr. Pickering pioneered the Scholars program at Shelton in 1990 to address the unmet needs in the broader community. Since that time, hundreds of tutors have received extensive training and supervision in the delivery of the S.E.E. curriculum to work in the Scholars program.

Tutors include college students, Shelton alumni, current and former teachers, retirees, parents, and grandparents. Some tutors are experienced professionals working towards advanced certification or licensure; others are embarking upon a voyage of discovery that may lead to a future in teaching. In all cases, they are committed to the mission of serving students with learning differences.

The Shelton Scholars program provides critical services for many students in the DFW area. At the cost of trading in some of their summer break, a time when most students experience a learning loss, these students are developing skills in oral and written spelling, reading, grammar, vocabulary, cursive handwriting, auditory discrimination and memory.

Students are having fun, too. Whether shooting hoops during a break or making playdates with newfound friends, their increasing confidence becomes plain to see. The pep in their steps as they enter the building or smiles on their faces as they join their cohorts are a joy to behold and an inspiration for everyone to continue with their work.

For more information about Shelton's Scholars program, visit this link.

With special thanks to Jessica Newman, Director of Shelton S.E.E., for her insights into the Scholars program and her ongoing dedication to the students it serves.

Dallas Academy Announces New Principal

Lisa Loera — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 12:49:59 Z

Dallas Academy has announced Amy Bernstein as the new Principal of Dallas Academy. Ms. Bernstein is a passionate educator of 19 years and has dedicated much of her career to supporting children with learning differences. Her experience includes classroom teaching and providing dyslexia therapy in the Richardson Independent School District. Most recently, she started the RISD Dyslexia Therapist Training Center and was their lead dyslexia therapist working in a leadership role through teacher training and coaching in the Take Flight and MTA curriculum, program development, and strategic planning. She also led campus training, created and delivered professional development to teachers, provided principals with reading intervention strategies, and lectured and led practicums for reading intervention.

Ms. Bernsteins education background includes a Master of Education with a specialization in reading and writing from Southern Methodist University and a B.A. in psychology. Ms. Bernstein is a Certified Academic Language Therapist and Qualified Instructor, providing instruction and training in structured literacy programs to reading specialists. She is a compassionate leader, skilled communicator, and fierce advocate for children who learn differently. "I am excited to collaborate with teachers and parents to foster an environment that puts students' needs first, creates a culture of inclusivity, and ensures all students can be successful in their academic journey, " said Ms. Bernstein.

Ms. Bernstein will begin her role as the new Principal at the end of July and will complete our leadership team and oversee the school's academic program. Her role will include assuring the alignment and continuity of educational instruction, special programs, school policies and procedures, and fostering the rich school culture that is the hallmark of Dallas Academy.

Arise & Build Update--Classroom Updates in Progress

G.W. Hail — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 12:00:00 Z

Dallas Lutheran School is officially in progress on classroom updates in preparation for the upcoming school year.

In partnership with Lakeshore Learning, multiple learning spaces in our main buildings are being redesigned and outfitted with incredible new resources for all types of innovation for the 2024-25 school year and beyond.

We are excited to share this news with you and eagerly anticipate our first day of school in August when our students will move into and be able to benefit from these new learning classrooms.

To learn more about how your student and family can join our loving community, please check out our website:

www.dallaslutheranschool.com/admissions

We look forward to hearing from you.

#changingtheworldthroughchristcenterededucation

#faith #family #excellence #personalgrowth

Shelton Experts Featured in Podcast on Early Signs of Learning Differences

Lisa Kresl — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 12:39:18 Z

Shelton Executive Director Emeritus Joyce Pickering and Associate Head of School Amy Cushner are featured in a Greenspring Center for Lifelong Learning podcast on "Early Signs of Learning Differences to Look for in the Primary Classroom." Pickering and Cushner outline development during the Primary years, emphasizing the importance of early identification and intervention for children with learning differences. They highlight how Montessori materials and lessons can be adapted to support diverse learners and caution against a "wait and see" approach, which can result in missed opportunities for early intervention and additional suffering for the child. Instead, they recommend implementing adaptive strategies as soon as a child is identified as at risk, ensuring that the child receives necessary support.

Dr. Joyce Pickering is a 50-year Montessorian, speech and language pathologist, and learning disabilities specialist who has devoted her life to addressing the needs of students with learning differences. She is the author of "Montessori Strategies for Children with Learning Differences: The MACAR Model," with Sylvia O. Richardson, M.D.

Amy Cushner is certified in Sequential English Education and the Association Method programs for the remediation of written language disorders, as well as advanced levels of Montessori Applied to Children at Risk. Amy holds a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, Montessori-credentialed (E1) MACTE, is a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist (Texas), Certified Academic Language Therapist, QI, and has worked at the Shelton School for 30 years.

Listen to the podcast at this link.

Shelton Alumnus Colin Feehery Qualified for Four Events in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials

Lisa Kresl — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 13:21:54 Z

SHELTON ALUMNUS COLIN FEEHERY QUALIFIED FOR FOUR EVENTS IN THE 2024 U.S. OLYMPIC SWIMMING TRIALS

Colin Feehery (Shelton Class of 2019), who graduated from SMU in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Sport Management, is a member of SMUs swim team and qualified for four events in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials, which begin on Saturday, June 15-23 in Indianapolis. Colin qualified for the 100 and 200 breaststroke, the 200 freestyle and the 200 individual medley.

What are your swimming accomplishments?

While swimming at SMU, I held four individual team records, competed in the 2021 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, the 2022, 2023 and 2024 NCAA championships, and competed in the finals in multiple events at the U.S. National Championships. I already qualified and am looking forward to the Olympic Trials.

What will you be doing after graduation from SMU?

Ill be working for the Jesuit Athletic Department and as an assistant swim coach coming up soon.

Whats your learning difference?

I have ADD inattentive type, Dysgraphia and Expressive Language Disorder.

How did Shelton prepare you for college?

Shelton prepared me for SMU by helping me think about different ways I could succeed. With learning differences, sometimes different adjustments have to be made to accomplish a goal.

What advice do you have for Shelton students?

Always remember that anything is possible. Before attending Shelton and SMU, I had no idea what I was capable of both in school and in athletics. Learn as much as you can about yourself and be willing to advocate for your own needs. Understanding both your strengths and weaknesses and being able to ask for help will unlock a potential you never knew you had.

What are your memories of Shelton?

The biggest thing I loved about Shelton was the class sizes. Teachers could always care about the individual person and have the time to help when asked. It was also fun to be able to get to know all of my graduating class and a lot of people from the classes above and below me. I enjoyed SMU for a lot of the same reasons. I could get to know a lot of people within my major and take a lot of the same classes with the same people. Teachers and advisors were also able to spend more time with the individual students and offer help as needed.

Whats a fun fact about you?

I enjoy studying history. I also enjoy reading books about world history.

COLIN FEEHERYS SMU School Swimming Records

200 breast I 1:52.06 I 2/3/23

400 free relay | 2:50.39 | 3/30/24

800 free relay | 6:14.35 | 3/27/2024

PARK PLACE LEXUS PLANO RECOGNIZES PLANO ISD TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

Mary Jane Coker — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:10:57 Z

Park Place Lexus Plano recognized Plano Independent School District Teachers of the Year, Meghann Sciples and Mitch Stobee. Sciples was named Elementary Teacher of the Year and Stobee was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year for PISD.

The two Plano ISD teachers were offered their choice to drive a Lexus IS or NX for the 2024 summer, deluxe detail and tank of gas for the winners vehicle, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game with a parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge that includes an all you can eat buffet and drinks of choice. The teachers also received four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and other Park Place swag.

We celebrate the teachers who commit their time, energy and resources to building the next generation of leaders, said Chris Brunner, Park Place Lexus Plano General Manager. We recognize the long hours our teachers work in their selfless drive to educate our children. Park Place Lexus has supported the Teachers of the Year program in Plano ISD for many years, and we applaud all the teachers for their passion and dedication to educate.

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, childrens advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the companys offerings. Park Place was acquired in 2020 by Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Duluth, GA. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

Shelton Alumni Achieve Academic Success

Lisa Kresl — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:00:13 Z

SHELTON ALUMNI ACHIEVE ACADEMIC SUCCESS

As Shelton finishes celebrating our 2024 graduating seniors, we like to look across the country and honor Shelton alumni who are adding another graduation under their belts. Our students continue to strive for greatness even after they leave our walls. We are proud of what these young adults have accomplished and who they have become! View the slideshow.

Shelton Announces 2023-2024 SPARK Award Winners

Lisa Kresl — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 14:14:46 Z

Three Shelton teachers and a coach received the 2023-2024 Shelton Parents' Association Recognition Kudos (SPARK) Award at the May 30 Shelton End-of-the-Year Staff Appreciation Luncheon. This is the ninth year that SPA presented the recognition. Awards are based on comments received in the spring parent survey. Each winner will receive a SPARK crystal statue and a check for $500.

Lower School: Jennifer Drake

Shelton Head of Lower School Christine Davis described Shelton Lower School teacher Jennifer Drake as a team player willing to help in any situation. "Jennifer is always cheerful and flexible, and our division is better for it," Davis said. One Shelton parent commended Drake for being welcoming and encouraging. "She walked alongside us as we transitioned into a new school and environment. She was always accessible to calm any of my fears or my daughter's fears." Another parent said, "Mrs. Drake has a calm demeanor and is patient and kind. She challenged our son unlike any teacher has before."

Middle School: Maria Nikolopoulos

Middle School Head of School Patricia Gallaher described Shelton Middle School teacher Maria Nikolopoulos as a teacher who builds and maintains a solid, meaningful rapport with her students because she takes time to understand their interests and struggles. "She makes students feel seen, heard and valued," Gallaher said. "Some students come to her feeling beaten down, and by the time they leave her room, they begin to believe in themselves. She has warmth, compassion and a sense of humor in the classroom, with high expectations of her students to engage, question and learn from her. She's a team player and is respected by her students and colleagues."

Upper School: Dr. Samantha Cason

Shelton Head of Upper School Jenny Cheatham called Shelton Upper School teacher Dr. Samantha Cason an exceptional teacher and colleague. "Her intelligence and passion for science shine through, and her students truly recognize and appreciate these qualities," Cheatham said. "She's also willing to lend a hand, whether it is to help a student, a fellow teacher or the school community as a whole. We are lucky to have Samantha in our science department."

All Around: Taiesha Olden

Shelton Athletic Director Alan Burt said Shelton coach Taiesha Olden is an organized, dedicated team player. "As the head coach for Cross Country and Track & Field, she is reliable, conscientious, professional and committed," Burt said. "She is also known for her adaptability, cheerful demeanor and her zest for life."

$65,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS GIVEN AT 13TH ANNUAL BROADWAY DALLAS HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL THEATRE AWARDS

Dana Cobb — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:13:33 Z

High school students, teachers, parents, friends, arts advocates, celebrities and city officials celebrated as winners and scholarship recipients were announced at the 13^th Annual Broadway Dallas High School Musical Theatre Awards (HSMTA). The ceremony was hosted by Dallas native and two-time HSMTA winner Haley Dortch and took place live at the Music Hall at Fair Park on Friday, May 24, featuring student performances, award presentations including $65,000 in scholarships, and acceptance speeches from the winners.

The Broadway Dallas HSMTA aim to inspire and honor excellence in high school musical theater, and to recognize the importance of musical theater and arts education within the North Texas community. This regional program culminates at the Music Hall with an awards ceremony, modeled after the Tony Awards®, to recognize outstanding musical theater productions and students.

The 2024 Outstanding Musical Award went to Rowlett High Schools production of Six and the awards for Outstanding Lead Performer were presented to Damson Chola Jr. (Cleburne High School) and Fabiola Caraballo Quijada (Tyler Legacy High School). A list of all 2024 winners, participating high schools, and their productions can be found at https://broadwaydallas.org/education-community/hsmta/.

"We say this every year, but its true the Broadway Dallas High School Musical Theatre Awards is the most special night of the year, said Ken Novice, president and CEO of Broadway Dallas. "Were beyond proud to celebrate the hard work of these students and witness their talent on stage. Congratulations to all the 2024 nominees and winners!"

A total of 79 productions from 73 participating high schools were evaluated by a diverse group of highly qualified judges from the North Texas theater community. Awards were presented in 15 categories and scholarships were awarded to outstanding graduating seniors who apply and selected by the Broadway Dallas scholarship panel. Through funds raised by private donations, Broadway Dallas HSMTA awards $65,000 in scholarships to deserving students. To date, Broadway Dallas HSMTA College Scholarship program has awarded more than $500,000 in cash scholarships to deserving students.

The live ceremony was hosted by Dallas native Haley Dortch, who won the Broadway Dallas HSMTA Outstanding Lead Performer two times and is starring as Fantine in the national tour of Les Misérables.

All winners are listed at BroadwayDallas.org/HSMTA.

2024 BROADWAY DALLAS HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL THEATRE AWARDS WINNERS

OUTSTANDING MUSICAL

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Cedar Hill High School- Seussical

Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Frenship High School- Evita

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Rowlett High School-SIX

Tyler Legacy High School- Something Rotten

OUTSTANDING DIRECTION

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Frenship High School- Evita

Grapevine High School- Something Rotten

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Highland Park High School- Into the Woods

Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Prince of Peace Christian School- You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown

Rowlett High School-SIX

OUTSTANDING CHOREOGRAPHY

Cedar Hill High School- Seussical

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts- Sister Act

Frisco Centennial High School- May We All

Grapevine High School- Something Rotten

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Hebron High School- Matilda

Keller Central High School- Mary Poppins

Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Melissa High School- Tuck Everlasting

Midlothian Heritage High School- Big Fish: School Edition

OUTSTANDING MUSIC DIRECTION

A&M Consolidated High School- The Lightning Thief

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Frenship High School- Evita

Grapevine High School- Something Rotten

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Memorial High School- Into the Woods

Rowlett High School-SIX

The Conservatory at North Texas Performing Arts Academy- The Drowsy Chaperone

Tyler Legacy High School- Something Rotten

OUTSTANDING ORCHESTRA

Cedar Hill High School- Seussical

Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy- Anything Goes

Grapevine High School- Something Rotten

Rockwall-Heath High School- Carousel

Keller Central High School- Mary Poppins

Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Southwest Christian School- Into the Woods

Wakeland High School- White Christmas

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE

Cedar Hill High School- Seussical

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts- Sister Act

Frenship High School- Anastasia

Frisco Memorial High School- Into the Woods

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Highland Park High School- Into the Woods

Keller Central High School- Mary Poppins

Liberty Christian School-Singin' in the Rain

OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN

Braswell High School- Mamma Mia

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Coppell High School- 9 to 5

Frisco High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Frisco Memorial High School-Into the Woods

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Nolan Catholic High School- The Little Mermaid

North Forney High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Southwest Christian School- Into the Woods

OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN

Braswell High School- Mamma Mia

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Cedar Hill High School- Seussical

Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Frisco Memorial High School-Into the Woods

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Independence High School- The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Keller Central High School- Mary Poppins

North Forney High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Rockwall High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Southwest Christian School- Into the Woods

OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN

Cedar Hill High School- The Addams Family

Coppell High School- 9 to 5

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts- Sister Act

Frenship High School- Anastasia

Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy- Anything Goes

Grapevine High School- Something Rotten

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Independence High School- The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Lake Highlands High School- The Little Mermaid

Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Prince of Peace Christian School- You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown

Southwest Christian School- Into the Woods

OUTSTANDING SOUND DESIGN

Bowie High School- Beauty & the Beast

Braswell High School- Mamma Mia

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Lake Country Christian School- A Tale of Two Cities: The Musical

Lakeview Centennial High School- You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Rowlett High School- SIX

Southwest Christian School-Into the Woods

Temple High School-Heathers The Musical: Teen Edition

The Conservatory at North Texas Performing Arts Academy- The Drowsy Chaperone

OUTSTANDING STAGE MANAGEMENT

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Coppell High School- 9 to 5

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts- Sister Act

Frisco Centennial High School- May We All

Frisco Memorial High School- Into the Woods

Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Lakeview Centennial High School- You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Permian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Southwest Christian School- Into the Woods

Temple High School-Heathers The Musical: Teen Edition

Waxahachie High School- Beauty & the Beast

OUTSTANDING CREW & TECHNICAL EXECUTION

Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Frisco Centennial High School- May We All

Guyer High School-Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Highland Park High School- Into the Woods

Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

North Forney High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Prince of Peace Christian School- You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown

Southwest Christian School- Into the Woods

OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMER

Bailey Mercer- Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

Bailey Thornburg- Melissa High School- Bullets Over Broadway

Carrington Black- Lake Highlands High School- The Little Mermaid

Damson Chola Jr.- Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

David Trejo- Wakeland High School- White Christmas

Emma Grace Freeman- Guyer High School- Sweeney Todd

Ethan Lee- Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Fabiola Caraballo Quijada- Tyler Legacy High School- Something Rotten

Francine Parcero- Rowlett High School- SIX

Gabrielle Rollins- Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Jackson Blanton- Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Jackson Lacefield- Byron Nelson High School- Tuck Everlasting

Jerard Mosley- Tyler Legacy High School- Something Rotten

Kai McGhee- Rowlett High School- SIX

Katelyn Quintanilla- Frenship High School- Evita

Layla Moore- Rowlett High School- SIX

Lorenzo Perez- All Saints' Episcopal School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Max Payne- Tyler Legacy High School- Something Rotten

Maxwell Nelson- Grapevine High School- Something Rotten

Presley Anderson- Liberty Christian School- Singin' in the Rain

Reid Salvador- McKinney Boyd High School- Big Fish

Rohan Singh- Frisco Centennial High School- May We All

Shalom Oyawe- Cedar Hill High School- Seussical

Sydney Haygood- Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy- Anything Goes

Zach Combs- Tyler Legacy High School- Something Rotten

Zack Dooley- Guyer High School- Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMER

Addie Timmer- Forney High School- Matilda

Ainsley Smith- Frisco High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Amelia Nugent- Plano West Senior High School- Mamma Mia!

Braedon Carlton- Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Ella Eavenson- Guyer High School- Sweeney Todd

Ella Karins- Memorial High School- Into the Woods

Ethan Larriva- McKinney Boyd High School- Big Fish

Giovanni Cameau- Emerson High School- Once Upon a Mattress

Ian Cazarin- Timber Creek High School- White Christmas

Jayden Mays- McKinney Boyd High School- Big Fish

Jessica Wu- Highland Park High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Lathan Kidd- Cedar Hill High School-Seussical

Mia Jacob- Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts- Sister Act

Nash Dean- Keller Central High School- Mary Poppins

Olivia Lewis- Frisco Centennial High School- May We All

Preference Chola- Cleburne High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Sarah Espinoza- Memorial High School- Into the Woods

Trevon Joseph- Frenship High School- Evita

Tristan Garcia- Midlothian High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Tucker Mattison- Highland Park High School- Into the Woods

Zoe Ford- Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing & Visual Arts- Hairspray

OUTSTANDING FEATURED PERFORMER

Ava Green- Wakeland High School- White Christmas

Autumn Micknal- JJ Pearce High School- Between the Lines

Denali Ramos- Lakeview Centennial High School- You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Ethan Simpson- Frisco High School- Chicago: Teen Edition

Kara Knight- Frisco Memorial High School- Into the Woods

Lola Guerrero- North Forney High School- Little Shop of Horrors

Madelyn Sallee- Frenship High School- Anastasia

Meredith Martin- Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts- Sister Act

Maria Luiza Viana- Cedar Hill High School- The Addams Family

MJ Vinny Worsley- Trinity Valley School- Mean Girls: High School Edition

Serenity Ferguson- Mansfield High School- Mean Girls: High School Edition

BROADWAY DALLAS SPIRIT AWARD WINNERS:

Emma Grace Freeman- Guyer High School

Taylor Stephens- Frenship High School

Francine Parcero- Rowlett High School

Serenity Ferguson- Mansfield High School

The Storehouse Community Center Hosts Historic Graduation Ceremony for the Academy Education Program

Elizabeth Lenart — Fri, 31 May 2024 09:51:03 Z

Ceremony recognizes first group of graduates (11 total) to complete all six levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses

The Storehouse Community Center hosted a historic graduation ceremony on May 18, in the sanctuary of St. Andrew Methodist Church, with special recognition of the first graduates of all six levels of The Academys English as a Second Language (ESL) program. These 11 graduates are part of a group of 148 ESL students who received certificates for the completion of an ESL class level. In addition, nine Academy students received their Modern Automotive Service and Repair certificates for completing a six-week course held in partnership with Collin College.

Today is a historic day for The Academy as we recognize 11 students who have completed their ESL journeys, graduating from all six levels of the program, said Ligia Urrego, director of The Academy. Many began their studies with The Academy when it first opened in the summer of 2022. All our ESL students, many of whom work multiple jobs, have demonstrated incredible dedication, coming each Saturday morning for four hours during multiple 12-week course semesters. Today represents extraordinary effort and achievement by each Academy student, and we are so proud of them.

Following the entrance of the graduates, with the group of 11 donning blue caps and gowns, all participated in the opening hymn Great Is Thy Faithfulness, led by soloist Camille Skye and organist Scott Scheetz.

The Storehouse CEO Candace Winslow opened with thanksgiving, prayer, and recognition of St. Andrew for utilization of the beautiful space and encouragement of the work of The Storehouse as well as the many donors whose generosity propels our mission. She continued by recognizing the staff and volunteers, the backbone of this program, and Academy Director Ligia Urrego, whose passionate leadership and heart for others are paramount to this programs success.

To our volunteer teachers, without you we have no Academy, added Winslow. These volunteers give countless hours to make sure our neighbors are cared for in so many ways. Today we celebrate our neighbors and our Academy volunteers.

Winslow also paid tribute to the late Dr. Linda K. Johnson, the president and CEO of Aspire who passed away in February. Aspire provides curriculum and support to The Academys ESL program.

The celebration included a video presentation of a group of the students each sharing one word, which resonated with all graduates, and remarks of what The Academy has meant to them on their journeys: family, wonder, love, affection, hope, and support. Through The Academy, students gain valuable experiences, friendships, and community at The Storehouse.

Following the presentation of certificates, volunteer teacher Jim Hess charged the graduates with words of encouragement.

This last semester was my fourth time teaching, and I have never done anything more rewarding, said Jim Hess. Your dedication, commitment, and smiles every Saturday are so inspiring and make each volunteer excited to teach you. You have faced so many challenges beginning with leaving your home countries to provide a better life for your families. Living in Texas you could have gotten by without learning English, but you faced the challenge and are to be congratulated. We have accomplished so much, including improving your pronunciation, expanding your vocabulary, and mastering challenging English grammar rules, and we could not be prouder of you.

Hess encouraged the students to use it or lose it and practice their English. Pick a favorite movie, turn on subtitles and watch it over and over, take an easy course at Collin College in English, keep a journal in English and write a couple of sentences each night. Be proud of your accomplishments and come back and help us teach more students!

Mario Lisena, one of the 11 graduates of all ESL levels and an employee of Storehouse job partner Hilti, where he has worked in the apprentice program since February, provided remarks on behalf of the students. A few highlights are below.

Today we completed our goal. But the journey is not over. It was a long journey that for some began in May 2022, said Lisena. Everything in life requires effort. You cannot wait for God to do all the work, but each person must take on effort to obtain what they are wanting for. Knowledge will become our hope to survive and adapt in this country. Without it we are nothing, and we cannot be a part of the equation. As the Chinese proverb says, Give me a fish, and we will eat today. Teach me how to fish, and we will eat the rest of our lives.

When Lisena was a child, his father took him on walks where they observed people manually sweeping the streets and cleaning up waste.

My father told me that without studies, this would be my job and destiny, continued Lisena. This reminder always motivated me to complete my university studies and professional goals. But when I first came to this country, I had to carry out this same type of work against my fathers teachings. But we must always take advantage of opportunities that lie before us and not sit idly by. Maybe we should understand that God sends us to that place to serve. If He sees we are inactive, He will have no reason to use us and enhance our abilities. This motivated me to take the opportunities that The Storehouse offered me, thus managing to obtain a more relevant position. I invite you to follow this path. Thank you, Storehouse and job partners, Lux Ice and Hilti.

Following special music, Youll Never Walk Alone, by Skye and Scheetz, Storehouse board member and longtime volunteer teacher William Urrego directed the students to place their tassels on the left, where your heart is, and remember your time here and encouraged them to keep in touch with their Storehouse family as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County), is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Josephs Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 149,064 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

PHOTOS BY KIM LEESON

Bachman Lake Togethers CAN Graduation Celebrates Parent Leaders and Their Preschool Graduates

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 23 May 2024 10:30:00 Z

Two generations received recognition at Bachman Lake Togethers annual Community Action Network (CAN) graduation ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of parent leaders and preschool graduates in the Bachman Lake community of Dallas.

Eighteen Bachman Lake-area parents graduated from the nine-month CAN program, which equipped them with the skills and knowledge to advance their children's education and well-being. Additionally, 13 parents, who completed advanced levels of the program, were also celebrated for their achievements in volunteer leadership and early education advocacy.

The bilingual ceremony, held at the Bachman Recreation Center, marked the culmination of Bachman Lake Togethers CAN parent leadership program, which empowers parents to become advocates for their children's education and leaders in the community. Additionally, 16 preschool graduates from AVANCE North Texas joined their parents in celebrating this milestone, recognizing the shared success of two generations.

Bachman Lake Together Executive Director Olga Martinez Hickman, Ph.D., welcomed the audience of Bachman Lake families, and Bachman Lake Together partners and supporters, saying, Every day I get the honor of experiencing the magic of parent leadership first-hand whether its witnessing a family enrolling their child in school for the first time, talking to a partner about the power of community voice they have seen in one of our meetings, or listening to a parent speak of their leadership journey. Today we know that the change that is happening in our community is due to the wonderful parent leaders who are here in front of you.

George Rodriguez, chairman of the Bachman Lake Together Board of Trustees, added, The parents graduating today are leaders dedicated to improving the lives not only of their children, but also of countless families in the Bachman Lake community and beyond. They are developing their voices as leaders, recruiting families in the neighborhood to register for Pre-K and taking on volunteer leadership roles. They have the power to transform this community.

During the ceremony, Yesenia Cardoza Ramirez, Dallas ISD Director of Family & Community Engagement in Early Learning, delivered a keynote address, highlighting the importance of parent engagement in children's education. Graduates shared their personal experiences in the program, emphasizing the transformative impact it had on their families' lives.

Among those graduates was Gabriela Pacas, who described how her experience in the CAN program inspired her, saying, When parents are informed, they have the power to build a better future for their children, and early education is a fundamental part of our childrens success.

To close the ceremony, the preschool-age AVANCE graduates performed a song, Súbete al tren de la alegría (All Aboard the Happy Train).

Bachman Lake Together extends its gratitude to its partners, volunteers and supporters for their commitment to empowering families and building a stronger community. The organization remains dedicated to its mission of uniting the Bachman Lake community to fully prepare children for kindergarten academically, socially, and emotionally so they thrive in school and in life.

Dallas Lutheran Announces Enrollment Grant Opportunity Program

G.W. Hail — Fri, 10 May 2024 17:00:00 Z

Dallas Lutheran School is pleased to announce a new Enrollment Grant Opportunity program available to all qualified, prospective students and a waiver of the regular $150 application fee.

We have generous financial grants available. Come join our diverse group of learners where we meet students where they are and provide a well-rounded curriculum to set students up for success in college and beyond.

In fact, our 2023 graduates received over $6 million in scholarships and aid from over 77 institutions and are attending 25 colleges in 12 states.

At Dallas Lutheran, the opportunities are endless.

We invite you to be a part of our community where faith, family, personal growth and excellence are our core values.

For more information, please contact Belinda Hunt at 214-349-8912 or visit our website at www.dallaslutheranschool.com/admissions/financial-info and scroll down to our accordion tab "Enrollment Grant Opportunity."

You will need to contact Belinda Hunt before submitting your application in order to receive your $150 savings where we are waiving the application fee.

Dallas Lutheran School will begin its' 49th year of serving students in Dallas this fall.

Changing the World through Christ-centered Education.

Dallas Lutheran School. 8494 Stults Road. Dallas, Texas. 75208. 214-349-8912. www.dallaslutheranschool.com

Betsy Graham Named Head of School

G.W. Hail — Fri, 10 May 2024 16:00:00 Z

DALLAS--May 8, 2024

Dallas Lutheran School is pleased to announce the board of directors has hired Betsy Graham as Head of School for the north Dallas High School and Middle School.

Graham is currently the principal of the kindergarten-8^th grade school at Prince of Peace Christian School in Carrollton where she has served for 22 years.

We are thrilled to announce the hiring of Betsy Graham as our new head of school to lead our school, said Rick Myers, President, DLS Board of Directors.

Graham, who has a Masters of Education (M. Ed) is an experienced educator who has been a critical part of the leadership team at Prince of Peace for 11 years, leading up to 450 students and over 45 staff members at a time. Recently, she was nominated by the POPCS staff to receive the Texas District Educator of the Year Award.

She plans to have a detailed and innovative approach to the development of the people, programs, and places that make up Dallas Lutheran.

What stands out to me about Dallas Lutheran is what I thought was a catchphrase, turned out to be completely legitimateLions Pride. Everyone absolutely loves this school, and I am thrilled to join a dedicated team that is embracing the heritage of nearly 50 years of ministry, building on the past to create a great future that will impact eternity, Betsy Graham, Head of School, Dallas Lutheran School.

Graham previously also served on the board of the Texas Institute for Teacher Education. She completed her B.S. in Education at Concordia UniversityWisconsin in 2001, and her M. Ed at the University of North Texas in 2008.

Betsy Graham is the perfect person to lead our school. She has all of the qualities we wanted in a new leader for our school. We have been so impressed with Betsy from the first time we spoke with her and all throughout the process of getting to know her as a strong leader, said Mark Couser, DLS Board Member and Head of the Call Committee

Dallas Lutheran suffered damage to its classrooms and administrative buildings during the tornado that hit the schools campus in 2019. Since then, the school has been serving students in portable buildings as they have undergone a capital campaign to raise the money necessary to rebuild.

The current graduation class of 45 students were 8^th graders when the tornado hit. Grahams first goal will be to rebuild the admission pipeline through innovative scholarship offerings and new academic vigor including STEM and AP classes at nearby Dallas College in Richardson.

It is a difficult assignment but one that Graham is ready for.

I am ready to hit the ground running at DLS. We are truly blessed to have an incredible staff of loving and nurturing teachers who truly care for and invest in our student/staff relationships. And, we have a dialed-in and supportive parent teacher organization that invests in our school annually. Working with our board, I am confident that together, we will get through this situation and look forward to breaking ground on our new building in the coming year, said Graham.

Dallas Lutheran will begin its 49^th year of serving the families of north Dallas this August.

About Dallas Lutheran School

Founded in 1974, classes began in 1976 for the 7^th through 12^th grade private secondary school that provides a personalized, student-focused, and Christ-centered learning environment. More than 2,000 alumni have graduated from the north Dallas school. Dallas Lutheran School has full state accreditation in Texas through the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) and nationally through the National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA.). Over 2,000 Lutheran schools serve nearly 200,000 students taught by 20,000 educators. Dallas Lutheran School is located at 8494 Stults Road, Dallas, Texas 75214. For more information, visit www.dallaslutheranschool.com.

Texas Womens Foundation's April 30 Event Features ABC's Deborah Roberts, Cynt Marshall & Honorees

Juliette DC — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:34:10 Z

Texas Womens Foundation has announced its Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration on April 30, 2024, at the Omni Dallas Hotel (555 S. Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75202). This day of learning, leadership and celebration starts with #BESTSELF, a half-day empowerment program for teen girls. Next, the event features Leadership Forums with the 2024 Maura Women Helping Women and Young Leader recipients discussing their journey. Finally, the evening concludes with the Awards Celebration and dinner, led by Deborah Roberts, Senior National Affairs Correspondent, ABC News Co-Anchor, ABC 20/20. Cynt Marshall, Dallas Mavericks CEO, will moderate a discussion with Roberts.

Co-chairs for the event are business leaders and Foundation supporters Sakina Rasheed Foster,Haynes and Boone, LLP Partner and Office Managing Partner, and Veronica Torres Hazley, Founder of Hey Chica!

Foster said, We invite you to join us on April 30^th as we listen, learn and are charged with uplifting our community and our colleagues. Starting with our #BESTSELF program, our community will share its collective wisdom and empower the next generation to become the best versions of themselves and leaders in their circles of influence.

Hazley added, Our program then shifts to our honorees who will inspire you with their stories. Their roles in academia, nonprofits, leadership and business have impacted thousands of women and girls and their families to create a better community for all. Plus, were honored to have Deborah Roberts of ABC be a part of the conversation.

Maura Women Helping Women Award:

For 45 years, the Maura Women Helping Women Award has been presented to more than 225 courageous individuals who have catalyzed change for women and girls.

Brenda Jackson, selection co-chair, and Carrie Freeman Parsons, TXWF chairwoman and selection co-chair, led the committee to select the following honorees:

Heather Bellino (Austin, TX)

Texas Advocacy Project (TAP)

Heather Bellino is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming lives as the CEO of Texas Advocacy Project. With a commitment to serving victims of domestic and dating violence, child abuse, stalking, sexual assault and human trafficking, she leads a team that provides crucial legal services to those victims. At the heart of her leadership lies a passion for advancing the lives of women and girls. Through TAP's initiatives, Heather raises awareness about critical issues, dismantles stigma, and fosters open dialogues, driving positive systemic change.

Marsha Clark (Frisco, TX)

Marsha Clark & Associates

Marsha Clark has become a driving force in the realm of leadership development, change management, strategic planning, performance management, team development and executive coaching. A visionary leader, she has dedicated more than 20 years to crafting and delivering leadership development programs tailored for women. She is also an Amazon best-selling author of Embracing Your Power. Complementing her literary success, she hosts a weekly podcast titled Your Authentic Path to Powerful Leadership, accessible on MarshaClarkandAssociates.com.

Adeeba A. Raheem, Ph.D. (El Paso, TX)

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)

Dr. Adeeba Raheem, UTEP associate professor of Civil Engineering, uses her academic prowess to help students. She has a multi-million dollar research portfolio with funding from U.S. federal agencies and non-profit organizations, which is directed towards supporting women and economically disadvantaged students in civil and construction engineering. For a decade, she has also been leading a construction safety training program where a large number of women representing diverse socio-economic backgrounds have been trained on occupational safety topics.

Jamila Thomas (Dallas, TX)

Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Dallas

Jamila Thomas serves as senior vice president for Big Brothers Big Sisters and is responsible for establishing the strategic plan for corporate and community engagement. She also serves as an executive board member for Pipelines to Possibilities, an organization founded by four African American women judges focused on educating students on the justice system. Jamila helped establish the first Racial Equity Office in Dallas ISD and founded Cultured Consulting Group, an organization committed to the implementation of culturally responsive leadership best practices.

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 years recipients:

Cimajie Best (Dallas, TX)

Allyn Media

Cimajie Best, an account executive with Allyn Media, is a trusted advisor to clients facing public affairs challenges, public relations opportunities, political elections and landmark fundraising campaigns. As a skilled tactician in capacity building and stakeholder management, she is a strong racial equity advocate and program evaluator. Cimajie works with nonprofits, foundations, elected officials and communities to create inclusive outcomes for all parties involved. She is a staunch advocate for collaborations, partnerships and a collective impact approach to producing change.

Hilda H. McClure (Addison, TX)

Cannenta Center for Healing and Empowerment

Hilda McClure, COO at Cannenta Center for Healing and Empowerment and a founding board member at Cannenta Foundation, is a skilled bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in adult therapy and trauma-focused counseling. Driven by a dedication to youth well-being, she pioneered an evidence-based program for children and single mothers in residential care. Committed to community growth, she trains professionals in serving Hispanic families and navigating the acculturation process.

Schedule:

10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. #BESTSELF

With the theme Be Empowered, #BESTSELF is a transformative program that unites girls aged 13-16, along with their educators and allies, for a day dedicated to empowerment. The goal is to assist these girls in embracing and embodying their "best selves." Facilitated by subject-matter experts, the sessions focus on bolstering self-confidence and inspiring girls to challenge stereotypes, amplify their voices, pursue their dreams, mentor one another, and contribute to positive change for equity in schools, communities and society.

4:00-5:45 p.m. Leadership Forums award recipients in a moderated conversations

5:45-6:30 p.m. General Reception

6:30-8:00 p.m. Awards Dinner, presentation and panel discussions; Deborah Roberts serves as moderator

Information/Sponsorships:

To learn more about this event and purchase a sponsorship, visit https://txwfleadership.org/

For those interested in sponsorship, contact Joy Busch at lfad@txwf.org, jbusch@txwf.org or 917-279-6077.

About Texas Womens Foundation:

As Texas Womens Foundation (TXWF) nears its 40^th year, it is clear that now more than ever is the time to elevate Texas women. By working with women, families and communities, they are building a stronger, more equitable Texas. TXWF raises funding from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $7.1 million in investments that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through timely research, advocacy, grants and strategic initiatives. Since inception in 1985, TXWF has invested $78.9 million in women and girls. Their statewide research on issues affecting women and girls provides decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs in the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and leadership initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls thrive. In addition, Texas Womens Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement and has deployed 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

BIOS:

Deborah Roberts

Deborah Roberts is an award-winning ABC News correspondent and co-anchor of the prestigious news magazine, 20/20. A media veteran, Roberts has traveled the world for her reporting. She also serves as a substitute anchor for Good Morning America as well as a guest co-host on The View.

Her in-depth coverage of current events has earned her a Peabody Award for the 20/20 special Say Her Name: Breonna Taylor. She has been awarded multiple Emmy^® Awards for international and national coverage of world events, including the AIDS crisis in Africa and maternal mortality in Bangladesh.

Roberts is the author of Lessons Learned and Cherished: The Teacher Who Changed My Life, a New York Times Bestseller. Shes also authored a book with her husband, Al Roker, called Been There, Done That: Family Wisdom For Modern Times. She currently resides in New York City with her husband. They have two children.

Recipient Bios:

Heather Bellino (Austin, TX)

Texas Advocacy Project

Heather Bellino is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming lives as the CEO of Texas Advocacy Project (TAP). With a commitment to serving victims of domestic and dating violence, child abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking, Heather leads a team that provides crucial legal services to those in need.

Her leadership is marked by TAP's core values of innovation, integrity, courage and empowerment. Heather is constantly seeking new ways to address complex challenges in an ever-evolving world. Under her guidance, TAP has experienced remarkable growth, with the budget expanding from $900k to $5M.

Heather's influence extends beyond TAP; she's a member of Texas Council on Family Violence's Public Policy Committee and has earned an appointment to the Governor's Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force. Her expertise benefits aspiring leaders as she mentors participants in the University of Texas Executive Master in Public Leadership Program. Recognized for her expertise and advocacy, Heather is sought after for interviews by media outlets and podcasts.

At the heart of Heather's leadership lies a passion for advancing the lives of women and girls. Through TAP's initiatives, she continues to raise awareness about critical issues, dismantles stigma, and fosters open dialogues, driving positive systemic change.

Marsha Clark (Frisco, TX)

Marsha Clark & Associates

Marsha Clark is an independent consultant and coach who charted her entrepreneurial journey in 2000, establishing her own company. With a rich background at EDS, where she ascended from secretary to corporate officer during her 21-year tenure, Marsha brings a wealth of corporate experience to her consulting practice.

Over the past two decades, Marsha has become a driving force in the realm of leadership development, change management, strategic planning, performance management, team development and executive coaching. A visionary leader, she has dedicated over 20 years specifically to crafting and delivering leadership development programs tailored for women. Marsha's unique approach revolves around a comprehensive four-stage developmental framework, progressing from the personal to the interpersonal, extending to teams, and ultimately impacting entire organizations. This holistic methodology ensures nuanced growth and development, fostering the emergence of dynamic leaders. Marsha's global leadership and executive development programs have garnered worldwide recognition, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the field.

Marsha is not only a seasoned consultant but also an Amazon Best Selling Author in two categories for her book, Embracing Your Power. Complementing her literary success, she hosts a weekly podcast titled Your Authentic Path to Powerful Leadership, accessible on MarshaClarkandAssociates.com. Anticipated in 2024 is the release of the second installment in Marsha's 3-part book series, Expanding Your Power: A Womans Opportunity to Inspire Teams and Influence Organizations.

Adeeba A. Raheem, Ph.D. (El Paso, TX)

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)

Adeeba A. Raheem, Ph.D. earned her Ph.D. in Construction Management from the University of Florida and holds masters degrees in Building Construction, Environmental Engineering and Civil Engineering. A tenured Associate Professor and Director of the Construction Safety Program at the University of Texas, El Paso, she's a member of the Presidents Advisory Committee on Sustainability and Academic Innovation Committee at UTEP. Dr. Raheem has a multi-million dollar research portfolio with funding from U.S. federal agencies and non-profit organizations, which is strategically directed towards supporting women and economically disadvantaged students in the Civil and Construction Engineering programs at UTEP.

Dr. Raheem has also been leading a construction safety training program at UTEP for the past 10 years, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through the prestigious Susan Harwood Targeted Training Program. Under her leadership, a large number of women representing diverse socio-economic backgrounds have been trained on various occupational safety topics. The team has provided over 20,000 training hours across multiple cities in West Texas, benefiting more than 400 small businesses.

Dr. Raheem has received several prestigious national, regional, and university awards, recognizing her unwavering commitment to inclusive teaching, applied research, and dedicated service to the local industry and community.

Jamila Thomas (Dallas, TX)

Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Dallas

Jamila Thomas is a 2019 Presidential Leadership Scholar appointed by the Presidential Centers of William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush and Lyndon B. Johnson. She is the Founder of Women Divine, a philanthropic organization she founded 15 years ago focused on educating, inspiring, and empowering young women. Jamila now serves as the Senior Vice President for Big Brothers Big Sisters and is responsible for establishing the strategic plan for corporate and community engagement. In addition, she serves on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (JEDI) committee that reaches over 250 local agencies across the United States with innovative and transformational activations.

Jamila also serves as an executive board member for Pipelines to Possibilities, an organization founded by four African American women judges focused on educating students on the justice system. As a result of her success in establishing the first Racial Equity Office in Dallas ISD, which focused on culturally responsive curriculum and policy development, she founded Cultured Consulting Group an organization committed to the implementation of culturally responsive leadership best practices. Jamila has been married to Brandon Thomas for 22 years, and they have two beautiful children Braylon and Jaidence.

Cimajie Best (Dallas, TX)

Allyn Media

Cimajie Best is a trusted advisor to clients facing public affairs challenges, public relations opportunities, political elections and landmark fundraising campaigns. As a skilled tactician in capacity building and stakeholder management, she is a strong racial equity advocate and program evaluator. Her expertise guides clients' winning strategies with government affairs, media messaging and community outreach. Cimajie works with nonprofits, foundations, elected officials and communities to create inclusive outcomes for all parties involved.

Having launched programs for organizations such as the State Fair of Texas and the Texas Christian University, she is a staunch advocate for collaborations, partnerships, and a collective impact approach to producing lasting change in communities.

Cimajie served on the Dallas County Child Welfare board and currently serves on the boards of the Moorland Family YMCA at Oak Cliff, Healthy Future of Texas, Making it Count and Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas. She is an SVP Dana Juett Resident Alum, a Communities Foundation of Texas, Emerging Leader in Philanthropy Alum, as well as an Obama Foundation Community Leader Alum.

She holds a bachelors degree in Philosophy & Africana Studies from Louisiana State University as well as a certificate in Social Entrepreneurship from Oxford.

Hilda H. McClure (Addison, TX)

Cannenta Center for Healing and Empowerment

Hilda H. McClure, COO at Cannenta Center for Healing and Empowerment and a founding board member at Cannenta Foundation, holds a master's in Counseling and a bachelor's in Early Childhood Education. As a skilled bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in adult therapy and trauma-focused counseling, she passionately supports individuals facing mental health challenges.

Driven by a dedication to youth well-being, Hilda pioneered an evidence-based program for children and single mothers in residential care. Committed to community growth, she trains professionals in serving Hispanic families and navigating the acculturation process. Hilda shares expertise through op-ed pieces and LinkedIn articles, while her role as a professor enriches future professionals with insights into child development and psychology. Her leadership and commitment to empowering others helps shape a stronger, more resilient community.