NorthPark’s piano man: Play ‘Star Wars’ for me

THEN: Brad Hanson is best known as the man behind the piano at NorthPark Center. Hanson took on every genre of music, including video game theme songs. He also composes his own music and mash-ups of songs. “I’ve met Ross Perot and gospel singer Kirk Franklin. I’ve played for actor Dennis Quaid, businessman Mark Cuban, former First Lady Laura Bush and several local news anchors and politicians. It’s electrifying and a little scary to play in front of celebrities, but above all else, it’s just cool.”

NOW: Hanson describes himself as a husband, dad, performer and instructor. “I love our incredible God and my amazing family. Music is a part of every area of my life,” he says. “I consider myself honored and blessed to be a part of Dallas' cultural scene, talking to and entertaining the people who walk through NorthPark and learning about and assisting the gifted musicians that are my students.” Hanson, who enjoys hiking with his family, appreciates the connections he makes through song. “I've played ‘Let It Go’ about 300 times.”

Art saves: Hook ’em horns

THEN: Leticia Rincon was a senior at W.T. White High School who described herself as a shy freshman. That is, until she discovered art. The youngest daughter of Mexican immigrants, Rincon’s paintings display elements of her heritage, whether it’s bright colors or religion. Beginning with her junior year, Rincon started winning awards. She won first in the Dallas Veterans Day Art Contest two years in a row. Her 24-by-36-inch self-portrait was showcased at the Dallas Contemporary as part of the youth art month exhibit.

NOW: Rincon completed her first semester at the University of Texas at Austin. She’s pursuing her career in advertising and hopes to enter Texas Creative. Rincon joined Diversity in Advertising and Public Relations, which expanded her knowledge of the insight she can bring to any workplace. “I’m very proud to have pushed through new experiences,” Rincon says. “My family remains my source of motivation — my everything.”