The team at NonProfits.Club is proud to present the top 50 nonprofit influencers from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. To compile this list, we used a comprehensive set of criteria, including the individuals’ impact on their communities, the scale and reach of their organizations, their innovative approaches to solving social issues, and their dedication to fostering positive change. These leaders represent the pinnacle of nonprofit excellence in the region, driving initiatives that uplift and empower those they serve.
Linda Perryman Evans – The Meadows Foundation
Linda Perryman Evans is the Former President and Chief Executive Officer of The Meadows Foundation, one of the largest private philanthropies in Texas. She served in this role until her retirement in 2022 after 46 years with the foundation.
Susan Swan Smith – Communities Foundation of Texas
Susan Swan Smith is the Director of My Possibilities Foundation, a nonprofit that provides vocational training for adults with cognitive disabilities. She is also involved with North Texas Giving Day, a community-wide giving event.
Rodney D. Smith – Educational First Steps
Rodney D. Smith, Ed.D. is currently a Senior Consultant and Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Templeton World Charity Foundation. He previously served as President and CEO of the University of The Bahamas from 2014-2022. Prior to that, he held several senior higher education leadership roles including Administrative Vice President at Hampton University.
Brent Christopher – Children’s Medical Center Foundation
Brent Christopher serves as President of the Children’s Medical Center Foundation, leading fundraising efforts to support Children’s Health in Dallas. He has held this position since 2010.
Ken Hersh – The Bush Center
Ken Hersh is the President and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, a nonpartisan institution housing the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum and the George W. Bush Institute. He has served in this role since 2016. Hersh is also the Co-Founder and former CEO of NGP Energy Capital Management, a private equity firm.
Paige Flink – CEO, The Family Place, domestic violence services
Paige Flink, CEO of The Family Place, has dedicated over two decades to combating domestic violence in Dallas. Under her leadership, The Family Place has become the largest provider of family violence services in North Texas, offering emergency shelter, counseling, and skills training to victims of abuse. Flink has expanded the organization’s reach through innovative programs and community partnerships, ensuring comprehensive support for those in need. Her advocacy work has also influenced public policy, helping to create safer environments for families. Flink’s unwavering commitment to ending domestic violence has transformed countless lives and strengthened the fabric of the Dallas community.
Gail Thomas – Founder, The Trinity Trust
Gail Thomas, Ph.D. is the Founder and Former CEO of The Trinity Trust Foundation (now known as Trinity Park Conservancy). She played a pivotal role in the creation and implementation of the Trinity River Corridor Project, a major urban revitalization initiative in Dallas. Though she retired from her leadership role in 2016, Dr. Thomas remains involved in the Dallas community as a respected civic leader and author.
Veletta Forsythe Lill – Executive Director, Dallas Arts District
Veletta Forsythe Lill is the Former Executive Director of the Dallas Arts District, a position she held from 2008 to 2019. In this role, she helped establish the Arts District as a vibrant cultural hub and advocate for the arts in Dallas. Since her retirement, Lill has continued her involvement in the community, serving on boards and advisory councils for various arts and civic organizations.
Lily Weiss – Executive Director, Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
Lily Cabatu Weiss is the Executive Director of the Dallas Arts District, a position she has held since 2016. In this role, she oversees the management and programming of the 68-acre Arts District, one of the largest urban arts districts in the United States. Weiss has a strong background in arts education and has worked to strengthen partnerships between the Arts District and local schools and cultural institutions.
Susan Hoff – United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
Susan Hoff serves as the Chief Strategy & Impact Officer for United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, a role she has held since 2009. In this position, she is responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives to address critical community needs in the areas of education, income, and health. Hoff has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, having previously served as the CEO of ChildCareGroup and the Executive Director of Educational First Steps.
Suzanne Bock Grishman – Executive Director, Mercury One Charity
Suzanne Bock Grishman is the President and CEO of the Tarrant Area Food Bank, a leading hunger-relief organization serving 13 counties in North Texas. In this role, she oversees the food bank’s operations, programs, and partnerships to provide food assistance to individuals and families in need across the region. Grishman has over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, previously serving in leadership positions at organizations like the American Red Cross.
Kim Noltemy – Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Kim Noltemy is the President and CEO of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO), a position she has held since 2018. Under her leadership, the DSO has expanded its community engagement initiatives, digital programming, and educational outreach. Noltemy is focused on enhancing the orchestra’s artistic excellence and ensuring the DSO remains a vibrant cultural institution in Dallas.
Marissa Delgado – Executive Director, Dallas Film
Marissa Delgado is the Executive Director of Dallas Film, a nonprofit organization that operates the Dallas International Film Festival and supports the local film industry. In this role, Delgado oversees the festival’s programming, operations, and community partnerships, working to elevate Dallas as a hub for independent and international cinema.
Dianna (Walsh) Smoot – The Birthday Party Project
Dianna (Walsh) Smoot is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Birthday Party Project, a nonprofit that celebrates the birthdays of children experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. Smoot has grown the organization from a local Dallas initiative to a national movement, partnering with shelters and service providers across the country to bring joy and community to vulnerable youth.
Brittany Barnett – Co-founder, Girls Embracing Mothers
Brittany Barnett is the Co-Founder and CEO of Girls Embracing Mothers (GEM), a Dallas-based nonprofit that provides mentorship, educational support, and resources to girls with incarcerated mothers. Under Barnett’s leadership, GEM has expanded its programming and impact, empowering young women to break the cycle of incarceration and achieve their full potential.
Dave Scullin – President, Communities Foundation of Texas
Dave Scullin is the President and CEO of the Communities Foundation of Texas, one of the largest community foundations in the country. In this role, he oversees the foundation’s grantmaking, strategic initiatives, and partnerships to address critical needs and drive positive change across North Texas. Scullin has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, previously serving as the CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
Debbie Dennis – COO, Oncor Electric Delivery, community advocate
Debbie Dennis is the Chief Operating Officer of Oncor Electric Delivery, the largest electric transmission and distribution utility in Texas. In addition to her corporate leadership role, Dennis is an active community advocate, serving on the boards of organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber, the Dallas Citizens Council, and the Dallas Women’s Foundation.
Lynn McBee – CEO, Young Women’s Preparatory Network
Lynn McBee is the CEO of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network, a nonprofit that operates all-girls public schools in Texas. Under her leadership, the network has expanded to 11 schools, providing high-quality college preparatory education to underserved young women. McBee is also involved in various other philanthropic initiatives focused on education, women’s empowerment, and community development.
Cynthia Mickens Ross – President, Texas Women for the Arts
Cynthia Mickens Ross is the President of Texas Women for the Arts, a nonprofit that supports and celebrates the contributions of women artists in Texas. In this role, she leads the organization’s efforts to provide grants, scholarships, and professional development opportunities for female creatives across the state. Ross is also an accomplished artist and arts advocate in her own right.
Debbie Branson – Board Chair, Texas Women for the Arts
Debbie Branson is the Board Chair of Texas Women for the Arts, where she works closely with President Cynthia Mickens Ross to advance the organization’s mission. Branson brings extensive experience in nonprofit governance and community engagement, having served on the boards of numerous Dallas-area organizations, including the Dallas Women’s Foundation and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Opal Lee – “Grandmother of Juneteenth”, National Juneteenth Museum
Opal Lee, affectionately known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth”, is a lifelong advocate for the recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday. At 95 years old, she continues to be an active leader in the Juneteenth movement, spearheading the campaign that led to the federal government’s designation of Juneteenth as a national holiday in 2021. Lee is also the founder of the National Juneteenth Museum, which is currently under development in Fort Worth, Texas.
Lyda Hill – Founder, Lyda Hill Philanthropies and LH Holdings
Lyda Hill is the Founder of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, a private foundation that supports scientific research, environmental conservation, and community initiatives in North Texas and beyond. Under her leadership, the foundation has made significant investments in organizations and programs focused on women in STEM, public health, and sustainable development. Hill is also the Founder of LH Holdings, a private investment firm.
George Tang – Managing Director, Communities Foundation of Texas
George Tang is the Managing Director of the Communities Foundation of Texas, one of the largest community foundations in the country. In this role, he oversees the foundation’s grantmaking, strategic initiatives, and partnerships to address critical needs and drive positive change across North Texas. Tang has extensive experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, previously serving in leadership positions at organizations like the Dallas Foundation and the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
Jennifer Sampson – CEO, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
Jennifer Sampson is the McDermott-Templeton President and CEO of the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, the largest social change organization focused on improving access to education, income, and health in North Texas. Under her leadership, the United Way has expanded its community impact initiatives, strategic partnerships, and innovative fundraising approaches to create lasting social change in the Dallas region.
Trey Bowles – Dallas Entrepreneur Center
Trey Bowles is the Co-Founder and Chairman of the Dallas Entrepreneur Center (DEC), a nonprofit organization that supports the growth and development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Dallas. In this role, Bowles works to connect entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities to help them scale their businesses and drive economic development in the city.
Mike Orren – Former chief product officer, The Dallas Morning News
Mike Orren, former Chief Product and Marketing Officer at DallasNews Corporation, is now the founder of News Oasis. This nonprofit aims to end news deserts in the U.S. by launching digital news operations in underserved communities. News Oasis focuses on providing local news coverage for areas lacking media presence, leveraging a sustainable, community-supported model to ensure comprehensive coverage of local government and schools.
Keith Vinson – President, The Family Place, domestic violence support
Keith Vinson, President of The Family Place, has significantly impacted the fight against domestic violence in Dallas. Through his strategic leadership, The Family Place has expanded its services, providing critical support such as emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy for victims of family violence. Vinson has spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance community awareness and education on domestic violence, fostering partnerships that extend the organization’s reach. His efforts have led to the development of innovative programs that address the root causes of domestic abuse, ensuring holistic care and support for survivors. Vinson’s dedication has strengthened The Family Place’s mission to create safer communities.
Cam Sadler – Founder, Newcraft (acquired by Modern Health)
Cam Sadler, the founder of Newcraft, a startup focused on connecting students with real-world job training, saw his company acquired by Modern Health. He continues to contribute to the nonprofit sector by advocating for better access to career education and mental health resources, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support systems for personal and professional development.
Marco Johnson – Fort Worth-based supporter
Marco Johnson, a prominent supporter in the Fort Worth area, is actively involved in various philanthropic efforts. He focuses on community development, education, and health initiatives, contributing to the enhancement of local nonprofits’ capacities to serve their communities effectively. His ongoing support and advocacy play a crucial role in fostering a collaborative environment for nonprofit growth and sustainability.
Carolyn Jordan – Arlington Life Shelter
Carolyn Jordan is the Executive Director of the Arlington Life Shelter, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency housing, meals, and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Arlington, Texas area. Under Jordan’s leadership, the Arlington Life Shelter has expanded its programs and partnerships to better serve the growing need for homeless assistance in the community. She is a passionate advocate for the shelter’s mission and works closely with local government, businesses, and other nonprofits to address the root causes of homelessness and help clients achieve self-sufficiency.
Jodie Brinkerhoff – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
Jodie Brinkerhoff serves as the Vice President of Community Affairs at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). In this role, she oversees the airport’s philanthropic initiatives, community partnerships, and employee volunteer programs. Brinkerhoff works closely with local nonprofits to support education, workforce development, and quality of life projects in the DFW region.
Ellen Magnis – Family Gateway
Ellen Magnis is the Chief Executive Officer of Family Gateway, a Dallas-based nonprofit that provides shelter, case management, and supportive services to families experiencing homelessness. Under her leadership, Family Gateway has expanded its programs and partnerships to help more families achieve housing stability and self-sufficiency. Magnis is a passionate advocate for affordable housing and social justice issues.
Linda Custard – Philanthropist, healthcare and arts advocate
Linda Custard is a prominent philanthropist and advocate for healthcare and the arts in Dallas. She serves on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Baylor Scott & White Health Foundation, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Dallas Opera. Custard is known for her generous support of medical research, arts education, and cultural institutions in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Cindy Shafer – Dallas Children’s Charities
Cindy Shafer is the President and CEO of Dallas Children’s Charities, a nonprofit that provides grants and resources to organizations serving underprivileged children in North Texas. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, supporting programs focused on education, health, and social services. Shafer is a tireless advocate for children’s rights and well-being.
Paige McDaniel – Community Partners of Dallas
Paige McDaniel is the Chief Executive Officer of Community Partners of Dallas, a nonprofit that provides support and resources to abused and neglected children in Dallas County. In this role, she oversees the organization’s programs, partnerships, and fundraising efforts to ensure that every child has access to the services and support they need to heal and thrive. McDaniel is a respected leader in the child welfare community and a passionate advocate for child abuse prevention and intervention.
Jonathan R. Bailey – Jonathan’s Place
Jonathan R. Bailey is the President and CEO of Jonathan’s Place, a nonprofit organization that provides a safe place, loving homes, and promising futures for children who have been abused, abandoned or neglected. Under his leadership, the organization has expanded its services and partnerships to help more children heal and thrive. Bailey is a passionate advocate for child welfare and works closely with local government, businesses, and other nonprofits to address the needs of vulnerable youth in North Texas.
Leah Williams – Dallas Afterschool
Leah Williams is the Executive Director of Dallas Afterschool, a nonprofit that provides training, resources, and support to afterschool programs serving children in low-income communities. In this role, she oversees the organization’s efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of afterschool programming in Dallas. Williams is a strong believer in the power of afterschool education to help children succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
Nancy Strauss Halbreich – Philanthropist, arts and education support
Nancy Strauss Halbreich is a prominent philanthropist who supports a wide range of arts and education initiatives in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She serves on the boards of several organizations, including the Dallas Museum of Art, the Dallas Theater Center, and the Dallas Independent School District Foundation. Halbreich is known for her generous support of cultural institutions and her commitment to improving educational outcomes for underserved children in North Texas.
Delores Elder-Jones – Minnie’s Food Pantry
Delores Elder-Jones is the Founder and Executive Director of Minnie’s Food Pantry, a nonprofit organization that provides food assistance and other resources to families in need in the Dallas area. Under her leadership, the organization has grown from a small community initiative to a major hunger-relief provider, distributing millions of pounds of food each year. Elder-Jones is a tireless advocate for food justice and works to address the root causes of hunger in her community.
Shelby Skrhak – Vogel Alcove
Shelby Skrhak is the Director of Development and Communications at Vogel Alcove, a nonprofit that provides early childhood education, social services, and family support to children and families experiencing homelessness. In this role, she oversees the organization’s fundraising, marketing, and community engagement efforts. Skrhak is passionate about breaking the cycle of homelessness and helping children and families achieve stability and success.
Pierce Bush – CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star
Pierce Bush, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star, has been a transformative leader in the nonprofit sector, dedicated to mentoring and empowering youth. Under his guidance, the organization has expanded its reach, providing life-changing mentorship to thousands of children across Texas. Bush has focused on strategic growth, community partnerships, and innovative programs to enhance the support offered to at-risk youth. His commitment to fostering meaningful relationships between mentors and mentees has strengthened the organization’s impact, helping young people achieve their full potential. Bush’s visionary leadership has solidified Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star as a cornerstone of youth development.
Regina Montoya – Children’s Health
Regina Montoya serves on the Board of Trustees of Children’s Health, one of the largest and most prestigious pediatric health care providers in the country. In this role, she provides strategic guidance and oversight to ensure the organization continues to deliver high-quality, compassionate care to children and families in North Texas. Montoya is a respected leader in the healthcare community and a strong advocate for improving access to pediatric services.
Neil Massey – North Texas Food Bank
Neil Massey is the President and CEO of the North Texas Food Bank, a nonprofit organization that distributes millions of meals each year to individuals and families facing food insecurity. Under his leadership, the Food Bank has expanded its network of partner agencies, implemented innovative programs, and strengthened its commitment to addressing the root causes of hunger. Massey is a tireless advocate for food justice and works to build a hunger-free, healthy North Texas.
Tim McKinney – United Way of Tarrant County, community advocate
Tim McKinney is the President and CEO of United Way of Tarrant County, a nonprofit organization that works to improve education, income, and health outcomes in the Fort Worth area. In this role, he oversees the organization’s community impact initiatives, strategic partnerships, and fundraising efforts. McKinney is a respected leader in the nonprofit sector and a strong advocate for social change. He serves on numerous boards and committees, including the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition.
Elyse Dickerson – CEO, Eosera, healthcare and women’s leadership
Elyse Dickerson, CEO of Eosera, has made significant strides in the nonprofit sector through her dedication to healthcare innovation and women’s leadership. Co-founding Eosera, a biotech company, she has focused on developing affordable, effective healthcare solutions while championing women in the industry. Dickerson’s leadership extends beyond her company, as she actively mentors and supports female entrepreneurs and leaders, fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. Her commitment to social responsibility is evident in Eosera’s business model, which integrates ethical practices and community engagement. Dickerson’s efforts have not only advanced healthcare but also paved the way for future women leaders.
Jo Guidice – Friends of the Dallas Public Library
Jo Guidice is the Executive Director of the Friends of the Dallas Public Library, a nonprofit organization that supports and advocates for the Dallas Public Library system. In this role, she oversees fundraising efforts, volunteer programs, and special events to enhance library resources and services for the community. Guidice is a passionate supporter of literacy and education and works closely with library staff and community partners to promote the value of public libraries.
Lynn Davis – CEO, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center
Lynn Davis is the Chief Executive Officer of the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, a nonprofit organization that provides services and support to child victims of abuse and neglect. Under her leadership, the center has expanded its programs and partnerships to help more children heal and thrive. Davis is a respected leader in the child welfare community and a strong advocate for child abuse prevention and intervention.
Phillip Jones – CEO, VisitDallas, tourism and community support
Phillip Jones is the President and CEO of VisitDallas, the official tourism promotion and marketing organization for the city of Dallas. In this role, he oversees the organization’s efforts to attract visitors, support local businesses, and promote Dallas as a premier destination for tourism, conventions, and events. Jones is a prominent figure in the Dallas business community and serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations focused on economic development and community engagement.
Michael Meadows – CEO, Dallas Zoological Society
Michael Meadows is the President and CEO of the Dallas Zoological Society, the nonprofit organization that supports the Dallas Zoo. Under his leadership, the zoo has expanded its conservation efforts, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. Meadows is a passionate advocate for wildlife protection and works to inspire visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world.
Jan Langbein – Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support
Jan Langbein is the Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support services to women and children who are victims of domestic violence. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, serving thousands of survivors in the Dallas area. Langbein is a respected leader in the domestic violence prevention community and a strong advocate for social justice and gender equality.
These 50 nonprofit leaders exemplify the dedication and innovation needed to drive meaningful change in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Their efforts have made a profound impact on the community, and their stories inspire others to contribute to the greater good. If you know of other outstanding nonprofit influencers in the area, we encourage you to share their names Leading Lights: Top 50 Nonprofit Influencers from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
