Via: Dallas Weekly
Texas Women’s Foundation raced to raise funds in support of women and girls at its 37th Annual Luncheon on October 6th at the Hilton Anatole Hotel. With the theme of Transforming Texas, the event featured Allyson Felix, the most decorated American Track & Field Olympian of all time.
The Annual Luncheon is the Foundation’s principal fundraiser in support of its work to advance women’s economic security, leadership, education, health and safety in Texas through research, advocacy, programs and grant-making.
The award-winning Garland High School step team fired up the attendees with their energetic routines and chants to much applause.
Hilda Galvan, Texas Women’s Foundation board chair, welcomed everyone. “Thank you to Garland ISD’s step team. Your performance encourages us to step up and step in to transform communities for women and girls.”
TXWF board members and business leaders, Laura Nieto and Rachel Vinson, served as luncheon co-chairs. Nieto said, “Like Hilda, we are also pumped up and ready to take our mark in this race!”
Vinson added, “By being here today, you are joining the race to advocate for policies and practices that support under-resourced women and families across our state.” She then thanked the top sponsors (list below).
Laysha Ward, executive vice president & chief external engagement officer at Target, introduced via video Catherine Helm, Target Corporation’s Dallas’ district team leader. Helm introduced Allyson Felix. “Allyson is fighting inequities by leading initiatives advocating for maternal policies, access to education and helping the next generation of mothers and athletes.”
Helm introduced Felix as a five-time Olympian, winner of 27 global medals at the Olympics and World Championships, entrepreneur and co-founder of Saysh, mother and wife. Then she introduced moderator Cynt Marshall, president and CEO of The Dallas Mavericks and TXWF board member. The Dallas Mavericks also served as the presenting luncheon sponsor. Marshall just wrote a book entitled “You’ve Been Chosen: Thriving Through the Unexpected,” a memoir offering hope and practical guidance for navigating life’s most difficult challenges. Each attendee received a copy of the book.
Marshall and Felix held a conversation sharing their love of track (both ran track), sports, motherhood, role models and transformation.