D CEO January/February 2025

FEATURING: How FB Society is disrupting the restaurant business in North Texas

Peter Altabef is taking Unisys into a new age of quantum technologies

INNOVATE. INSPIRE. IMPACT.

Building a successful future requires innovation, strategic planning, and a bold vision. Your Whitley Penn team of advisors are dedicated to helping you navigate the steps to grow your business and make a lasting impact.

Start today by scanning the QR code or visit whitleypenn.com today.

Meet a new generation of leaders, from a 14-year-old innovator in Frisco to an up-and-coming healthcare C-Suiter, driving change in their fields.

FB Society’s $400 million restaurant concepts don’t share much in common.

That’s exactly how CEO Jack Gibbons likes it.

Whiskey

6

DOSSIER

13 YOU NEED TO

Eric Hage, KDC

16 MEET THE 500

Sabina Carr, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

16 LOCALLY SOURCED Belly, Jenny Larson

18 ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Nancy Galvan, Unica Enterprises

20 CONVERSATION WITH Peter Altabef, Unisys

FIELD NOTES

41 LEADING OFF Jessica Baker Daily, Hal

42 LAW

The state’s newly launched specialized business courts aim to provide consistency, e ciency, and a fair playing field for corporate disputes.

44 ON TOPIC

Barry Shurkey of NTT Data North America, Dione Kennedy of the Bass Performance Hall, and Aasem Khalil of Goldman Sachs share the best business advice they’ve received.

Yousef Kattan, Truth Advertising

Dallas Is Becoming a Founders Market

in scrolling through the hundreds of social media posts about the 2025 edition of the Dallas 500, I was intrigued by comments from Rogers Healy. He wrote that the publication was proof that our city is “becoming the ultimate hub for founders.” Healy was recognized in past editions for his thriving residential real estate fi rm. This time around, we moved him to the PE and VC section for his out-of-the-gate success with Morrison Seger Venture Capital Partners, which he launched in 2022.

As the home to more than 20 Fortune 500 companies, North Texas has long been known for its deep corporate base. But in the past decade or so, its reputation for innovation, funding, and support for entrepreneurs has come on strong. Dallas Innovates reports that the region ranks as America’s No. 3 fastest-growing startup market, with an annual funding growth rate of 195 percent. I reached out to Healy to ask him what he’s seeing on the ground.

“Dallas is the perfect storm for entrepreneurs,” he said. “We’ve got the resources of a major metropolitan area, the energy of a city that’s always hungry for more, and the kind of people who know how to make things happen. Plus, Dallas is a melting pot of industries— fi nance, tech, real estate, fashion, food, and beverage—you name it. That diversity is a recipe for innovation. Dallas is where dreams become reality, period.”

Healy also praised the win-win attitude of people here and said the coming year will be all about leveraging access. “Resources, communities, and technology are more accessible than ever,” he said. “That transforms the landscape for a founder. But here’s the catch—consumer habits are shifting, and the competition is fiercer than ever. Markets are saturated, and the talent pool is full of ambitious, resilient people. Consumers want brands with a compelling story, purpose, and authenticity. Founders who can adapt quickly, build purposefully, and know their audience will dominate in 2025.”

Christine Perez Editor

Left to right: Patrick Wallace, Frances Gardner, Robert Gardner, Andrew Gardner

INNOVATIVE BANKING

EDITORIAL

EDITOR Christine Perez

MANAGING EDITOR Ben Swanger

SENIOR EDITOR Will Maddox

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Audrey Henvey

ASSISTANT EDITOR Layten Praytor

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Richard Alm, W. Michael Cox

EDITORIAL INTERN Victor Sanchez

ART

DESIGN DIRECTOR Hamilton Hedrick

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Elizabeth Lavin

ADVERTISING

SALES MANAGER Rachel Gill

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Rhett Taylor

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Cami Burke, Haley Muse

MANAGING EDITOR OF SPECIAL SECTIONS Jennifer Sander Hayes

DIGITAL SALES COORDINATOR Olivia Booth

CLIENT OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Julianne Emeterio

MARKETING & EVENTS

MARKETING DIRECTOR Madeline Alford

MARKETING MANAGER Tori Carruth

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Katie Garza

ASSOCIATE ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Andrea Chavez

EVENTS COORDINATOR Breanna Furrow

SPECIAL PROJECTS ASSISTANT Jordan Radasch

MARKETING INTERN Melody Guerrero

EVENTS INTERNS Randy Collins, Victoria Gonzalez, Kendyl Link

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT AND BRAND

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR Emma Barretto

EDITORIAL PROGRAMS MANAGER Sarah Masquelier Risi

SPECIAL PROGRAMS COORDINATOR Betty Burns

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Anita Moti

RETAIL STRATEGY MANAGER Steve Crabb

MERCHANDISER David Truesdell

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT Macey Pieterse

DIGITAL

DIGITAL DIRECTOR Ricky Ferrer

DIGITAL OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Jade Garrett

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Melissa Tallo

SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN Cloi Bryan

PRODUCTION

SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Grace John

PHOTO RETOUCHER Jasmine Green

BUSINESS

CONTROLLER Sabrina LaTorre

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT Debbie Travis

SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT Randall Rasor

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE COORDINATOR Jessica Hernandez

AP SPECIALIST Ron Dewey

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR Patricia Martin

IT TECHNICIAN Luan Aliji

OFFICE MANAGER Will Smith

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR Nikhael Virden

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Persuasion Skills: Wealth Inequality

except for a california commune, wealth inequality is an ever-present fact of life. You must recognize that reality and use it to your persuasive advantage. Most people don’t like folks who flaunt their wealth; many pejorative adjectives describe that phenomenon: showy, flashy, snooty, ostentatious. This negative reaction is commonplace because we are constantly comparing our status and achievements to others.

My August 2021 D CEO article detailed how people are persuaded by people who look, talk, and act like them. Therefore, don’t present yourself in a way that flaunts that you’re much wealthier than the person you are trying to persuade. Much of our self-image is driven by where we rank on life’s ladder compared to people above and below. When trying to get others to accept your views, you must understand the psychology of inequality—how our predisposition to compare ourselves to others impacts persuasion. Numerous researchers have determined that feelings of inequality psychologically trigger disruptive behavior. Air rage is substantially less likely to occur on flights with all coach seats. There are rich and poor people on those all-coach flights, but the differences are not pronounced. Therefore, those differences don’t translate into jealousy and resentment that boil over into air rage. Some flights board from the front and rear simultaneously. Since people aren’t walking past first-class passengers already ensconced in wide leather seats enjoying a free drink, there is less air rage.

Daniel Zizzo’s experiment proves the point. He gave different amounts of money to volunteers. Numerous volunteers were willing to spend their own money, if it reduced the money other volunteers received. Zizzo called this phenomenon “burning other people’s money.” That makes no economic sense—yet inequality’s strong psychological effect is so powerful people would rather have less to make sure the other guy/gal doesn’t have more. Zizzo’s

experiment is detailed in the book  “Inequality, Welfare,  and Income Distribution: Experimental Approaches,”  Emerald Group Publ. (2004).

The psychological impact of inequality is driven by the feeling that you don’t have things others have and you deserve what they have, which makes wealth comparisons even more upsetting. These feelings drive people into separate political and social camps. Class warfare was a constant and powerful theme in the recent presidential campaigns. People who are wealthy feel that they deserve it, they earned it, and the have-nots want something for nothing. People who work hard to get ahead who aren’t succeeding believe life is rigged against them. Numerous studies show that making comparisons to others creates unhappiness. That’s why most employers keep pay inequality confidential and instruct employees not to discuss compensation. Comparing pay and bonuses usually engenders jealously, anger, and hurts team collaboration. Feelings of inequality cause people to focus on the short term, be impulsive, seek instant gratification,  and take risky actions. Take advantage of this impulse to demonstrate that what you are offering will help them quickly climb life’s ladder.

The Takeaway: When persuading people, your appearance should not show them up. If a wealth inequality difference is unavoidable, provide them with a persuasive pathway to climb up the economic and social ladder to join you on a higher rung.

500 N. Akard Street, Suite 1900 Dallas, Texas 75201 214.888.5000 | info@roggedunngroup.com

ROGGE DUNN represents companies, executives, financial advisors, and entrepreneurs in business and employment matters. Clients include the CEOs of American Airlines, Baker Hughes, Beck Group, CUTX, Blucora, Crow Holdings, Dave & Busters, Gold’s Gym, FedEx, HKS, Texas Motor Speedway, Texas Capital Bancshares, and Texas Tech University, and sports figures like MLB manager Buck Showalter, NBA executive Donnie Nelson, and NBA Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown. Dunn’s corporate clients include Adecco, Beal Bank, Benihana, Cawley Partners, CUTX, Greystar, Match.com, Rent-A-Center, S2, Trinsic Residential Group, and Outback Steakhouse. From 2021 to the present Dunn was named to D CEO magazine’s Dallas 500 list, recognizing the most influential business leaders in North Texas. He has been named a top 100 attorney in Texas by Texas Monthly (a Thomson Reuters service) and to the D Magazine Best Lawyer Hall of Fame.

ROGGE DUNN, CEO, ROGGE DUNN GROUP

Dallas 500 Release Party

nearly 500 leaders gathered at the Dallas Museum of Art to celebrate the launch of D CEO’s 2025 Dallas 500, which honors North Texas’ most influential executives. The 2025 edition marks the 10th anniversary of the Dallas 500. Guests at the event enjoyed light bites, photo ops, a popcorn and candy bar by Make Your Life Sweeter, craft cocktails from On the Rocks, and samples of aged rye whiskey by WhistlePig. Part of the evening included a cover reveal, which features Vikram Agrawal, Jennifer Sampson, Jenny Martinez, Rogers Healy, NéAndré Broussard, Mahisha Dellinger, and Nirav Tolia. Thank you to our title sponsors—JBB Technologies, Meritax Advisors, and Rogge Dunn Group—for their support. You can view the full list online at dallas500.com

Christine Magrann, Robbie Sawyer

NéAndré Broussard, Mahisha Dellinger, Jenny Martinez, Jennifer Sampson, Vikram Agrawal, Rogers Healy

Linda Silver, Brad Pritchett

Janice Go, Tim Go

Robyn Jacobson, John Jacobson

Bianca Davis, Jane Rose, Michael Ablon

Scott Walker, Deanna Walker, Jack Gosnell, Lynne Dowdle, Bruce Butler, Kim Butler

Dylan Rafaty, Shaggy Ganjoor

Matthew Ogle, Stacey Tank, Lisa Leet

Chester Ong, Lisa Ong

Jennifer Bartkowski, Harry LaRosiliere

Harrison Blair, Tiana Blair, NéAndré Broussard, Erica Broussard

Aida Somun, Steve Miff

Amy Clark, Richard Clark

Nadia Kahn, Nafees Alam

Tony Fay, Kit Sawers

Mary O’Brien, Sean O’Brien, Mikial Onu

Philip Hiatt Haigh, Jeremy Smith, Sarah Jackson, Rick Ortiz

Natasha Crawford, Garrison Efird, Dylan Admire, and Rogge Dunn

Jordan Strauss, Bill Munck, Sue Munck

Debbie Carimi, Tony Carimi

Timo Nentwich, Eva Nentwich

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DOSSIER

WATCH NORTH TEXAS NEWSMAKERS

The

AUDREY HENVEY photography by

Eeric hage’s introduction to the world of commercial real estate happened on a tennis court. A student at the University of Richmond at the time, he took a summer job at home in Dallas teaching tennis to kids. “One of the parents asked me if I was interested in doing something more productive with my time in the summer than just teaching tennis,” Hage recalls. “He offered an introduction to a big construction company, which led to an internship that summer, the following summer, and then a full-time job.”

Hage began as an assistant to a superintendent, getting experience out in the field and on the project management side before shifting to the client side, where he discovered a passion for building relationships. “I always felt that if you could be really communicative with your client and build that trust, you can get through anything,” Hage says. “Those relationships are more valuable than any sort of profit you can make on a project. They supersede everything.”

He had been aware of the name “KDC” since getting into the construction industry. The Dallas company is an office development giant known for winning the biggest corporate projects in North Texas—and throughout the country. After leaving Structure Tone Southwest and a short stint running his own construction company, Hage joined KDC in 2021 as executive vice president of development. This past September, he was named the company’s new president, serving under Executive Chairman Steve Van Amburgh, who joined KDC’s

predecessor in 1989. Van Amburgh became owner in 2001, replacing Toby Grove, who moved into an advisory role as vice chairman. Hage represents a new era for the firm, which has made a name for itself with major build-to-suit projects for significant clients like Toyota, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, and AT&T. In the past three decades alone, the company has developed 140 commercial projects valued at $9 billion.

Hage intends to build on the success by doubling down on industrial and data center work, sectors that are experiencing rapid growth. “Because of artificial intelligence and the growing demand for data center space from big technology companies and others—the hyperscalers—the demand is off the charts for data center space right now,” he says. “What we’re realizing is that our partnerships with various landowners are positioning us very well for these oncoming opportunities.”

Hage notes KDC’s work with the University of Dallas on a site in Irving that was recently rezoned for data center development. He also highlights a 150-acre site in Taylor, where the company signed a joint venture with a landowner to accommodate several million square feet of data center, manufacturing, and industrial space. KDC also has data center plans for some of its remaining land at CityLine in Richardson, some of which was recently rezoned for multifamily use, too.

“Many of the sites that we have partnerships on are sites that have adjacency to large transmission lines, which ultimately provide ample power to be able to fuel data centers,” Hage says.

Throughout it all, KDC will continue to focus on its core strength of build-to-suits for corporate clients. It’s at work on some of the region’s largest active projects, including work for Bank of America and Wells Fargo (see sidebar). In a market that was recently named No. 1 for commercial real estate in 2025 by ULI and PwC in its prestigious Emerging Trends report, Hage says KDC will work to help Dallas continue to attract corporate relocations and expansions.

“As a company, we’re focused on Corporate America,” he says. “We think that the corporate development market is going to continue to flourish. It has taken its time since COVID, but things are really starting to pick back up again, which is great news.”

KDC Wins in North Texas

Here are three current projects for the firm, long known as a buildto-suit powerhouse.

BANK OF AMERICA

TOWER AT PARKSIDE

When it’s finished in early 2027, this 30-story showstopper next to Klyde Warren Park will be the tallest in Uptown. A partnership between KDC and Pacific Elm Properties, it’s designed by Kohn Pederson Fox, with Bank of America as the lead tenant.

WELLS FARGO CORPORATE CAMPUS

This two-building, 850,000-square-foot project, designed by Corgan, will have LEEDplatinum certification.

Amenities include a dining hall, conference center, wellness center, clinic, and more. Austin Commercial is the general contractor for the campus, slated for completion in 2025.

ONCOR DISTRIBUTION HUB

Located in Midlothian, work wrapped up on this 422,000-squarefoot development at the end of October 2024. Sitting on 60 acres, it was designed by Alliance Architects, with F.A. Peinado serving as general contractor.

together, we make incredible happen.

At Children’s Health,SM we drive innovation and implement the latest in health care technology to make life better for children. Join us in congratulating all the finalists of the D CEO Magazine 6th Annual Innovation Awards, including our very own organization and team member, Lindsey Tyra.

INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE AND BIOTECH

Children’s Health

EMERGING LEADER

Lindsey Tyra

Chief Strategy Officer and Co-Chair Joint Pediatric Enterprise, Children’s Health

SABINA CARR

President and CEO

DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN

in the fall of 2019 , after nearl y 17 years as the vice president of marketing at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Sabina Carr moved to Texas to become CEO of a similar organization in San Antonio. In that role, she faced the biggest challenge of her career—turning around the wounded culture she inherited. Carr did so through the simple act of servant leadership. “Leading a public garden, I follow a ‘people, plants, and place’ mantra,” she says. “People first— always—as they are the lifeblood of your mission. Being a servant leader is critical to the success of an organization, so employees’ needs are met.” In late 2023, Carr headed north on Interstate 35 to become president and CEO of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. “I want to ensure we lead the way in welcoming everyone in our community to experience the wonder and joy of nature,” she says.

BIRTHPLACE: Morristown, New Jersey

EDUCATION: Southern Methodist University (BA)

FIRST JOB:

“During my freshman year, I was hired as an English tutor in the athletic department at SMU, assisting student-athletes. The role required me to be up before sunrise and ready to go at 5:30 a.m. two or three times per week. As an athlete myself at the time, I discovered our common ground was discipline, which guided a lot of the success during those early morning tutoring sessions. That focus on discipline and hard work still drives me to this day in my career.”

BEST ADVICE:

“Lead with kindness.”

EMBARRASSING

MOMENT:

“I once took a bad spill in front of a dozen or so visitors while walking to a meeting. It was highly embarrassing, yet everyone jumped in to help me. I broke my foot as a result, which just added insult to the embarrassment.”

HOBBY/PASSION:

“Gardening is my passion. I love the kinetic aspect of changing landscapes and digging in the dirt. I have deep roots in agriculture that have been passed down through my family’s DNA. For more than a century, my family grew and distributed sugar cane around the world.”

FIRST CAR:

“I learned how to drive in my father’s massive, banana-yellow 1966 Jeep Wagoneer. It had a match-

ing banana yellow custom crash pad in the way back for the kids to bounce around in.”

COMFORT FOOD:

“I make a delicious turkey lasagna that my daughters and boyfriend love—thank you, Barefoot Contessa!”

PROUD MOMENT:

“The board of directors and the leadership team are conducting a strategic planning process to help provide a north star for the Dallas Arboretum over the next five years.”

A BETTER DFW:

“I would like to see green building practices across North Texas that help our businesses thrive for employees and our natural environment.”

MY LEGACY:

“I hope that I will be considered one of the executives in our industry who helped bring a new sense of professionalism to the world of public gardens.

I believe in operating the arboretum with a professional mindset while caring for the mission as the bottom line.”

IN THE PANTRY

Designed for a Healthy Belly

Launched two years ago, Jenny Larson’s gluten-free baking mixes are scoring shelf space at Central Markets.

diagnosed with celiac disease at 15, Jenny Larson struggled to find gluten-free foods she could eat that improved her health. “Even though something might be labeled gluten-free, it can still be packed with unhealthy, processed, and inflammatory ingredients,” Larson says. So, she launched Belly in March 2023 to create gluten-free, allergen-friendly baking mixes that are also free from preservatives and fillers. Belly’s signature feature is the inclusion of grass-fed bovine collagen peptides, setting it apart from other gluten-free brands. “I love it for the digestive health benefits, but it’s also great for hair, skin, nails, and muscle recovery,” she says. Larson runs Belly as the sole full-time employee, and the venture is bootstrapped completely by cash from her own pockets. Along with e-commerce sales, she has earned shelf space at eight Central Markets in Texas. “Dallas has been a great place to grow,” she says. “If not for Dallas, I know that my partnership with Central Market wouldn’t have been possible.” —Victor Sanchez

been possible.” mixes include

Belly’s glutenfree baking mixes include banana bread, brownies, pancakes, wa es, and cookies.

How first-generation American Nancy Galvan turned her night shift cleaning gig into a multimillion-dollar enterprise.

story by WILL MADDOX

every day for a year, nancy galvan left her job as a contract administrator at Fort Worth-based Bell at 5 p.m., grabbed a fast-food dinner, and battled traffic to a night gig, working as a subcontractor cleaning commercial properties from 6:30 p.m. to midnight. Seventeen years later, she is the CEO of Unica Enterprises, a commercial cleaning company with clients across the U.S. She employs 120 people, and the enterprise is on track to generate $4.5 million in annual revenue. The long nights in the early months of running her own business took a toll on her mind and body, but through the labor, she saw opportunity. As a first-generation American whose parents emigrated from Mexico, she grew up as the only daughter in a traditional family where women were expected to get married and have babies— not start companies. Galvan’s ambition pushed her to break the mold.

At first, though, her parents were hesitant to support the venture. It wasn’t until they stretched their finances to give her $5,000 to help fund her enterprise that she knew she had their backing. “That check could have been $5 million because of the impact,” Galvan says. “It was my mom and dad telling me, ‘We believe in you. You’re going to do this, whether we like it or not.’”

Although a financial pinch was the initial motivator for her to pick up the nighttime cleaning gig, she quickly realized the industry was ripe with potential—especially if she could leverage her experience securing government contracts at Bell to land federal contracts to clean buildings. After founding the company solo, she runs the business alongside her husband, Eric Marceleño, who serves as the COO. Six years into steadily growing the business, she landed her first government contract. Today, about 30 percent of Unica’s contracts are for federal buildings. (Unica means “only” or “unique” in Spanish, as Galvan was her parents’ only daughter.)

Galvan views her early experience on the front lines of her industry as a powerful strength that has benefited her in leadership. She is paying her success forward by serving on the board of the Dallas Regional Chamber and the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where she mentors other budding entrepreneurs. “Now I’m in a position where I can give back,” she says.

POWER TEAM

Nancy Galvan and her husband, Eric Marceleño, run Unica Enterprises as CEO and COO, respectively.

Grant Leigh, Market CEO, Dallas Region Coleman Moore, SVP Market Executive, North Dallas and Collin County

How Peter Altabef Is Reinventing a 152year-old Tech Company

The lifelong innovator who worked alongside some of Dallas’ top business legends is taking Unisys into the new age of quantum technologies.

the winding career of peter altabef has been shaped by three North Texas business icons: Morton H. Meyerson, Tom Luce, and the late Ross Perot Sr. Altabef also points to the late EDS executive and Merit Energy founder Bill Gayden as an instrumental influence. Now at the helm of Unisys, Altabef is channeling lessons from his mentors to help the company stay on the leading edge of technology. Based in Uptown, Unisys was officially founded in 1986 through a merger but can trace its roots back to the invention of the commercial typewriter in 1873. “Business leaders have an obligation not to look at what’s today but to look at what’s around the corner,” Altabef says. “So, while the world is appropriately focused on AI, it probably needs to pay more attention to quantum technology.”

The forward-thinking Altabef is an attorney by trade. His career kickstarted when Tom Luce hired him at Hughes & Luce. He was the firm’s youngest-ever hiring partner, but Altabef was angling for an eventual post in business leadership.

During his final year at the firm, Altabef worked alongside Ross Perot Sr. on his first presidential campaign. A year later, Perot Systems offered him a chance to become its general counsel, but he was still vying for a role on the other side of the corporation. “I don’t want to come to PS if the end of my career is just being a general counsel,” he remembers telling Morton Meyerson, the then-CEO of Perot Systems. “I want to have a business role. So, I will come if you will train me to be a businessperson.” Meyerson agreed. A decade later, Altabef took the torch from Ross Perot

Jr. after Perot Sr. promoted him to president and CEO of Perot Systems.

In 2009, Altabef helped oversee the company’s $3.9 billion sale to Dell. After it closed, Dell’s founder, Michael Dell, tasked Altabef with leading Dell Services, a new entity formed post-acquisition that accounted for $7.7 billion in revenue and nearly 50,000 employees.

In 2015, Altabef joined Unisys as president and CEO, and three years later, he traded in the president role for the chairman’s seat.

Over its century-and-a-half existence, Unisys has been reinvented several times. And its next reinvention, Altabef says, is centered around quantum technologies. Mass adoption of quantum is a decade away, experts say, but Altabef is getting ahead of the curve with quantum annealing, an advanced optimization tool, and post-quantum cryptography—a process that involves building cryptographic techniques that are resistant to cyberattacks from both classical and quantum computers.

So far, Unisys has deployed its quantum annealing in a logistics solution for airplane cargo. “If you can optimize the loading and unloading cargo capacity, you can save an airline a lot of money,” Altabef says. “And that same analysis will work for trains, trucks, and other shipping methods.” Malaysia Airlines was the first major airline to use the technology.

From the fourth quarter of 2023 through the third quarter of 2024, Unisys reported annual revenue of $2.02 billion—45 percent of which came from the U.S. and Canada; the rest was international. Altabef leads about 17,000 employees, 150 of whom are in North Texas. The company serves approximately 900 clients. “Our revenue is largely driven by us seeing around the corner,” Altabef says. “When we first looked around the corner, we assumed there wasn’t any quantum mature enough to be used yet. Sometimes, what you find is surprising.”

story by BEN SWANGER illustration by JAKE MEYERS

Energy Awards 2024

guests gathered for the seventh annual D CEO Energy Awards on October 29 at The Hall on Dragon. The event brought together industry leaders to honor outstanding achievements in oil, gas, and renewable energy. Awards were presented in 11 categories by D CEO Editor Christine Perez, alongside Rob Opitz of Forvis Mazars and Willie Hornberger of Jackson Walker. Additionally, Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil and Gas Association, provided a market outlook for attendees. The evening culminated in the presentation of the Legacy Award to Joe Foran, founder, chairman, and CEO of Matador Resources, for his significant contributions to the industry. Thank you to our title sponsors— Forvis Mazars, Jackson Walker, and Texas Mutual—for making this event possible.

Margie Waters-Hudson, Nancy Foran, Denise Davis

Allison Ballard, Jeffrey Ballard, Ross Dillon, Danny McRea

Chris Rozzell

Lindsey Alfano, Christopher Alfano, Jennifer Warren

Todd Staples, Tim Cork, Dr. Thomas Walsh

George Yates, Chris Calvert, Mike Garvin

Willie Hornberger, Gigi Hornberger, Sujeevan Satheesan, Jake Hornberger Joe Foran

Terecia Martin, Sally Hallingstad

Amy Simcox

Legal and Practical Insights on AI Integration

WILLIAM A. MUNCK, ESQ., MUNCK WILSON MANDALA LLP

with artificial intelligence (ai) reshaping industries, C-level executives face challenges in integrating this transformative technology. Drawing on Munck’s unique experience in AI development, intellectual property law, and venture finance, we address five critical questions to guide executives through this complex terrain.

How has your experience with early AI shaped your perspective as an intellectual property attorney?

Before pursuing a legal career, I worked as a software engineer and project manager developing early AI systems in industrial settings, including an industry-leading petroleum testing lab. My team designed adaptive algorithms that adjusted to real-time crude sample data, enabling incremental self-modification. Despite the technology’s potential, we faced challenges, including missed opportunities due to management decisions. These experiences taught me that innovation alone isn’t enough—success depends on aligning cutting-edge technology with sound legal and business judgment.

What legal considerations should C-level executives prioritize when integrating AI into their business operations?

Executives must address compliance with data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Equally critical is intellectual property (IP) management, ensuring that proprietary AI systems and datasets are protected. Establishing robust governance frameworks to address ethical and legal implications will be a differentiator for companies operating in a competitive region like Dallas-Fort Worth.

How can companies protect their intellectual property when developing or using AI systems?

Securing patents for unique algorithms and processes will protect a competitive edge. For proprietary systems that aren’t patentable, trade secrets remain an effective alternative, provided confidentiality measures are enforced. Dallas-Fort Worth companies frequently partner with vendors or research institutions; clear contracts that define ownership and licensing rights are essential. Keeping detailed documentation of AI development helps resolve disputes over IP ownership.

What are the biggest legal risks associated with deploying AI, and how can businesses mitigate them?

AI carries risks such as data privacy violations, algorithmic bias, and liability for unintended outcomes. For companies developing AI-driven products, rigorous testing identifying potential issues prelaunch is essential. Ongoing audits ensure systems remain fair and compliant. To address liability, executives should consider incorporating clear disclaimers in user agreements and AI-specific insurance coverage. Proactive risk management can help maintain trust in industries that serve both local and global markets.

What steps should businesses take to ensure their use of AI aligns with emerging regulatory standards?

The AI regulatory landscape is rapidly evolving. Companies must stay ahead by creating cross-functional teams that align AI practices with current and anticipated regulations. Monitoring changes in global and domestic regulatory environments while engaging with industry groups—such as local chambers of commerce—can provide valuable insights.

ABOUT THE EXPERT:

William A. Munck, Esq. is the global managing partner of Munck Wilson Mandala (“MWM”), a law firm headquartered in Dallas, Texas. He specializes in intellectual property law and has a significant presence in the Texas legal community. Under his leadership, MWM has grown to become one of the prominent technologyfocused law firms in the country, known for handling complex legal issues in technology and innovation. Munck’s expertise also extends to corporate law, sports law, and complex litigation, and he was an early AI developer during the late 1980s. He is recognized for his strategic approach to legal challenges and his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence within MWM. His role involves not only practicing law but also managing MWM’s operations and guiding its overall strategic direction.

Meet a new generation of leaders— from a 14-year-old innovator in Frisco to an up-and-coming healthcare C-Suiter —driving change in their fields.

story by D CEO EDITORS

by SEAN BERRY

NORTH TEXAS IS HAVING A MOMENT. JUST ASK Nirav Tolia, the innovator behind the multibillion-dollar social media platform Nextdoor, who moved here from the West Coast in 2021. “There is an air of optimism, possibility, and enthusiasm in Dallas that feels a lot like Silicon Valley felt when I first moved there,” Tolia says.

Just in the past half-dozen years or so, several hugely successful companies have launched out of North Texas or moved their operations here for expansion and growth. Companies like RecNation, Grata, Firehawk Aerospace, Yendo, and BackFlip are all local startups pursuing a billion-dollar valuation. Some, like Island.io and Colossal Biosciences, have already achieved unicorn status (reaching a valuation of $1 billion without being listed on the stock market).

In DFW, the art of innovation is strong. A total of 75 finalists featured in this year’s Innovation Awards, produced by D CEO in partnership with Dallas Innovates, prove that. And putting it on display to the highest degree are this year’s group of emerging leaders, who range from 14-year-old Siddarth Nandyala to up-and-coming healthcare C-Suiter Lindsey Tyra. Here are their stories.

portraits

THE MARKETER

TAYLOR CALISE

CALISE PARTNERS WAS FOUNDED BY CHARLIE

Calise in 2001 as a traditional advertising agency.

As the years passed, it expanded and eventually took on branding campaigns for clients in the real estate, home services, and restaurant industries. In 2019, after serving as managing director, COO, and CTO, Taylor Calise was named CEO, taking the reins from his father and ushering in the next generation.

Within six months, the self-taught coder orchestrated and closed the company’s acquisition of Imaginuity, opt-

ing to keep the name. It signaled a shift away from traditional marketing and into an era in which data and AI would transform how advertising campaigns are assembled, creating a more targeted approach to consumers.

Today, Imaginuity’s clients range from Goosehead Insurance and HomeVestors of America to Taco Cabana, bringing the agency’s footprint to more than 3,300 locations nationwide.

“We live o of our clients’ needs,” Calise says. “We’ve focused the last six months on things clients may not find value in anymore but still need to be done. How can we automate or augment humans to make them more e cient? [Our work] has largely focused on where we’re wasting money, energy, and resources to redeploy these talented people into tasks that drive more revenue and value for clients.”

The agency has dedicated 30 percent of its sta to tech roles and launched Pylot, a scalable cloud-based platform that helps clients inject a digital presence across several brands, websites, and locations. To date, the platform has built more than 600 websites for multi-location businesses. The agency also uses AdScience, a proprietary customer data platform developed by Calise, which is comprised of 1.7 billion rows of active data, 1,200 data variables, and over 25 customer data sources to streamline the information repository for clients. “Everything is relevant,” he says. “If it’s not relevant now, then it will be in the future.”

Seeing an opportunity, the entrepreneur says he was “laser-focused” on getting first-party data for clients rather than buying it from a publication or website. “This is who’s interacting with them, how much they’re spending, what their profiles look like, and what they’re doing on our [clients’] websites,” Calise says. “We were largely ahead of the curve on aggregating this stu and creating mechanisms to do it. But clients didn’t recognize its value until the last two years.”

In 2024, the agency developed and launched a virtual shopper named “Cindy” for JLL’s retail property management at 13 shopping malls nationwide. An extension of Pylot, the AI platform uses JLL’s shopping center customer profiles to create tailored retail suggestions for multi-ethnic characters based on mall locations. It’s a first step into a virtual human market that could be

worth $440 billion by 2031, according to Yahoo Finance. Imaginuity works primarily with middle-market companies, but Calise says the mass introduction of AI and ongoing technology integration has leveled the playing field between smaller companies and global corporations. “If you have a very forward-thinking, large company, they’re going to pull away,” he says. “But I wouldn’t doubt that some of these large enterprises aren’t as sophisticated as you think. You still see a lot of paper moving around. To a large degree, the middle and upper-middle market companies are much nimbler because of their size to adopt this stu .”

— Layten Praytor

THE WUNDERKIND

SIDDARTH NANDYALA

WHEN SIDDARTH NANDYALA WAS 7 YEARS OLD, he was given a STEM education kit. But the LEGO-type building system was too confining for the young Frisco student. “I was never able to achieve a level of proficiency that would allow me to innovate myself,” he says. So, when he turned 12, he founded STEM IT, a company that makes STEM-based products, kits, and services that teach students to code and about engineering. They’re marketed to schools, groups, and individuals. With a $2,000 grant from the Frisco Chamber of Commerce, Nandyala’s company was up and running.

“I realized that if youth aren’t being skilled enough to be proficient in STEM, they aren’t going to be creating change or be leaders globally,” the now 14-year-old says. “I knew that I’d be the one to bridge that gap.”

Nandyala, who employs two other people working on business scalability, has deployed his curriculum in a few international schools and is currently in discussions with several districts in the States about doing the same.

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Both of his parents are entrepreneurs. His father runs a business incubator, Startup Runway, and his mom owns a jewelry boutique. “They’ve helped me along my journey, but I run my company independently,” he says. (His twin sister, Sowmya, is growing a startup of her own. Called DriveIt, the technology aims at solving the wait times at the DMV.)

Nandyala is also developing innovative products in the healthcare space. “We’re harnessing the power of AI and machine learning to detect diseases early on through diagnostic tools for patients around the globe,” he says. “We recently partnered with our first hospital internationally.”

Among other products the young inventor has in the works is a prosthetic arm. “I was in India a few years ago and I encountered a young boy without an arm. I asked him why he didn’t have a prosthetic,” Nandyala says. “He explained to me that every single year he would have to get a new one because his arm is

still growing. And that is just very una ordable.” Nandyala’s prosthetic arm costs just $300. According to MIT—where Nandyala hopes to study one day—bionic prosthetic limbs typically cost more than $60,000.

“Traditional prosthetic arms controlled with the mind use the system known as EMG (electromyography) where the arm must be amputated, and the electrodes have to be connected directly to the human being, which is very expensive, not only due to the surgical procedure but because of the electronics required,” he says. “The prosthetic arm that I’m working on is using EEG (electroencephalography), which is essentially reading electrical signals and electrical brain waves, and it’s able to capture that and run it through ML algorithms to close and open the hand with your mind, without having the invasive process of a surgery.”

For now, Nandyala is selling prototypes of the arm to kids so they can learn how to build their own. The product will launch for patients “a few years down the road,” he says.

Coming up much sooner is a fall detection band he developed after his grandfather took a tumble in 2019. His grandmother was grocery shopping at the time, and she had no idea he had fallen. “By using gyroscopic and accelerometer data, my band can detect falls at a 92.6 percent accuracy rate—more accurate than the Apple Watch,” Nandyala says. “The device is able to send an SMS and email notification in the case of a fall. We’re working with an institution in India to bring this to market around a year from now.”

Another innovation is an AI-powered algorithm that, with a fundus image of the eye, can detect and grade the level of diabetic retinopathy in a patient and generate a detailed report and the next best steps for the patient. “We are more accurate than a traditional ophthalmologist or retina specialist,” Nandyala says.

His work has caught the attention of Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, as well as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney, who declared September 19 as Siddarth Nandyala Day in the city. “I’m honored to receive some recognition,” Nandyala says. “Being an entrepreneur and being an inventor is about having that mindset shift from seeing problems as possibilities to create a difference. And being able to be my own boss and shape the world through my own company is why I love waking up in the morning. Innovation is the heartbeat of progress.” — Ben Swanger

GOH

WHEN PEOPLE SUFFER A SPINAL CORD INJURY or stroke, they often end up on a long road to recovery via physical therapy. With recent technological advances, though, practitioners have increasingly been relying on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to improve outcomes. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stim-

HUI-TING

THE HEALER

TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY

ulate the brain and treats a variety of conditions, from depression and anxiety to upper limb spasticity. At Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and Texas Woman’s University, Professor Hui-Ting Goh is pioneering research that helps medical professionals understand the mechanisms of human movement and speed recovery.

Goh’s work spans two institutions. At Baylor, her Department of Defense-funded research uses TMS to measure and map patients’ brain activity as they go through gait training and learn to walk using a robotic tool. Goh uses TMS to measure neuroplasticity, or how the brain changes as individuals experience physical therapy.

Neuroplasticity can go two ways. The brain can find a way to solve a problem after it has been damaged, as when patients learn to walk or speak again after a stroke or spine injury. The brain can also change for the worse, as when chronic pain can lead to depression or other adverse outcomes. Goh hopes her work can identify positive changes that can be leveraged and replicated.

The Baylor research is intended to study those who benefit from the treatment so they might identify patients with more positive neuroplasticity and create a more tailored experience for patients in physical therapy. Understanding what happens in people’s brains as they recover can improve progress. “The question is how we take advantage of neuroplasticity,” Goh says. “How do we measure, quantify, or harness it so that patients can recover better?”

At Texas Woman’s University, a National Institutes of Health grant has allowed Goh to study the impact of TMS on post-stroke fatigue in physical therapy patients. Patients recovering from stroke often experience abnormal weariness, which can impact their mental state and the recovery process. Physical therapy requires energy, and without it, recovery slows. In this case, TMS stimulates brain activity rather than measuring it.

The use of TMS is an example of a relatively common phenomenon in medicine—discovering an effective treatment without completely understanding why it works. As Goh and others explore TMS’ impact on the brain and physical recovery, she hopes to add to the science to answer some of the questions that persist. “We know what happens to the brain cells during TMS and how that translates into behaviors, cognition, or

gait, but we are still missing a good chunk of why this happens,” she says. “I want to see improved tech and understanding in how we select people for treatment and make it more personalized.” — Will Maddox

LINDSEY TYRA

DISREGARDING HER MENTORS’ ADVICE MAY HAVE been the best thing Lindsey Tyra ever did for her career. As a graduate student in healthcare administration at the University of Kentucky, the easy choice was taking a fellowship as an administrator with a large health system—a choice that many of her peers made. It would have been a comfortable life in a shiny system

THE BUILDER

CHILDREN’S HEALTH

with exposure to a well-run organization. But Tyra wanted more than exposure; she wanted impact.

“When I walked away from a job, I wanted to be able to see what I did to make the organization better,” she says. “At large health systems, I wasn’t able to.”

Instead, she took a leap of faith to work for a federally qualified health center, a nonprofit clinic providing primary care to underserved populations. While there, she gained hands-on experience in everything from grant writing and government regulation to clinical operations and partnering with health systems. It paid off.

The organization grew from 200 to nearly 700 employees during Tyra’s tenure. She focused on directing heavy utilizers of the hospital toward primary care providers. Next, she was recruited to work in the strategy office at Children’s Health, which was looking to support its growing patient population with upstream services and prevent higher costs down the road. She quickly ascended into the C-Suite and is now its chief strategy officer.

Notably, the health system began construction this year on what will likely be the country’s largest pediat-

ric campus built from the ground up. As co-chair of the joint pediatric enterprise between Children’s Health and UT Southwestern Medical Center, Tyra oversees more than 700 employees and a $5 billion portfolio.

Leaning on her early experience at the nonprofit, Tyra organized meetings with stakeholders, community members, and partners at UTSW to determine what patients will need moving forward and helped communicate that message to those executing the plans for the new hospital. Along with balancing the needs of thousands of professionals and changing patient expectations, medical technology is evolving faster than construction. “How do we design a facility that will enable us to account for what we don’t know today,” she says. “There are advances that none of us can envision that will be commonplace in the future.”

Children’s Health predicts that the North Texas pediatric population of 2.5 million will double by 2050, even as the number of primary care physicians who care for them dwindles. That means the new campus will be forced to be creative to increase efficiency without losing quality, Tyra says. Technology will play a role, as will recruitment and retention. “How do we create an experience that will attract and retain folks within our system,” she says, “to ensure that no patient or family ever needs to drive far to get access to the health care they need?” — Will Maddox

DEWAN

DURING HIS FORMATIVE YEARS, RALEIGH DEWAN spent time on movie sets, tagging along with his oldest brother, a filmmaker. The youngest of three boys, he never saw himself as an entrepreneur. He thought he’d become a writer or a poet. Nonetheless, Dewan took an entrepreneurship course at SMU and went on

RALEIGH

THE STORYTELLER

STEADISPOON

to launch Sister Shaq’s Tea, an artisanal tea company. Then, his grandmother developed Parkinson’s, making menial tasks such as eating a struggle.

Dewan thought about combining the Steadicam tech he learned about on film sets with silverware to counteract her hand tremors. He took the concept through development in 2019 and created the first SteadiSpoon. “As the youngest of three boys, I thought if I could make something that could bring her back to the dinner table, I’d be the grandson of the year,” he says.

The Austin native began prototyping options with engineering teams at the University of Oklahoma and Johns Hopkins University. “You will never feel closer to God than when you’re in the act of creation,” Dewan says. Requests poured in from people in need of the product to help loved ones battling the disease that impacts nearly one million in the U.S., according to the American Parkinson Disease Association.

Dewan initially took a motorized approach to the technology, but a combination of supply chain issues and a desire to lower production costs and price points led him to pivot to a mechanical solution instead.

“It was a more di cult engineering challenge,” he says. “But it o ered a lot of consumer benefits. Now, I can scale it across other countries much easier.”

Dewan recalls getting an email from a mother in Austin with a teenage daughter who battled tremors. It sparked a realization that a broader base of people might benefit from SteadiSpoon. “Every physical therapist, occupational therapist, and care facility I talked with said, ‘This is a big need. I have a ton of clients who need help with this,’” Dewan says. “I realized there was enough demand here to make this a viable business.”

Dewan’s grandmother passed away during the early stages of SteadiSpoon’s development, leading him to consider discontinuing the project. But the flood of people who needed the product—and his desire to be a storyteller—convinced him to persevere.

“This is the story of a grandson’s love for his grandmother,” Dewan says. “What does it mean to share a meal with somebody? I’m not selling you a medical device. I’m telling you that story. There’s a lot of low-hanging fruit out and low-tech opportunities to help people regain their dignity.”

— Layten Praytor

AWARD FINALISTS

CORPORATE INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

Aligned Data Centers | BAL | Bell | Experion Technologies

INNOVATION IN AI AND MACHINE LEARNING

Cien.ai | evolv Consulting | Lumin Fitness

INNOVATION IN BANKING AND FINANCE

Quiltt | Texans Credit Union | Texas Capital | TradeO | Veritex Community Bank | Versant Capital Management | Zirtue

INNOVATION IN CYBERSECURITY

ByteTrail | DigitalXForce | Intel 471 | StrikeReady | Zimperium

INNOVATION IN EDUCATION

Bold Idea | Gannett.Partners | Paul Quinn College | Tech CxO LaunchPad | Texas A&M-Fort Worth Innovation Campus

INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE AND BIOTECH

Children’s Health | PCCI | Reveles | SilverStone Health | Southwest Transplant Alliance

INNOVATION IN MANUFACTURING AND CONSUMER GOODS

G.O.A.T. Fuel | Niagara | OxeFit | Toucan Cocktails | Twisted X Global Brands

INNOVATION IN REAL ESTATE

Applied Digital | Walsh Group | CAF Cos. | UnderPar Life

INNOVATION IN ROBOTICS AND IOT

AirSight | Anantak Robotics | Graze Robotics | Harbor | RobotLAB

INNOVATION IN SAAS

Aletheia Marketing & Media | JobTread Software | SalesBoost | Siepe

INNOVATION IN TRANSPORTATION

Aurora | Mozee | RailPros | Southern Dallas Link

STARTUP OF THE YEAR

Backflip | Colossal Biosciences | Yendo

ADVOCATE AWARD

Jennifer Sanders, North Texas Innovation Alliance

EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR

Taylor Calise, Imaginuity | Raleigh Dewan, SteadiSpoon | Hui-Ting Goh, Texas Woman’s University | Siddarth Nandyala, STEM IT | Lindsey Tyra, Children’s Health

CIO/CTO OF THE YEAR

Adrian Butler, Foot Locker | Casey Foster, JobTread Software | Pam Presswood, Valor | Barry Shurkey, NTT Data North America | Harsh Singla, Integrity Marketing Group

CORPORATE LEADER OF THE YEAR

Bryan Adams, Integrity | Brad Alberts, Dallas Stars | Tom Cole, Tandem Theory | Wally Gomaa, Coupe Health | Rod Washington, Frost Bank

STARTUP LEADER OF THE YEAR

Dave Copps, Worlds | Travis Hollman, MeSpace | Justin Monger, MedSure Systems | Taylor Shead, Stemuli | Jeremy Whittington, Illuma

Growth for table the setting

story by WILL MADDOX

FB Society’s $400 million restaurant concepts don’t share much in common.

That’s exactly how CEO Jack Gibbons likes it.

By putting its wines on tap, Sixty Vines strives to create a more approachable wine experience.

(inset) Its greenhouse in its Uptown location can seat up to 100 guests for private dining events.

(top) Haywire, with venues in Uptown and Plano, has a menu that's as expansive as its space.

(bottom) Whiskey Cake has developed a reputation for its extensive craft cocktail program.

OON

BUSY

NIGHTS

at the original Pappasito’s Cantina in Houston in early 1983, Jack Gibbons was doing his best to juggle the responsibilities of being a waiter at the popular Tex-Mex eatery. He worked between classes at the University of Houston at what he thought was just a college job. He was wrong.

The restaurant industry sparked something in the Pennsylvania native. “I can vividly remember thinking, ‘Oh my god, this is an amazing atmosphere,’” he says. “It had an allure from day one. I knew I could do this for the rest of my life.”

As he circled the tables, worked with hosts and chefs, took orders, delivered food, and connected with diners, Gibbons was laying the foundation to one day lead the largest Dallas restaurant group most people haven’t heard of. As CEO of FB Society, he oversees a company

with 41 venues, 4,500 employees, and about $400 million in annual revenue. All told, the group has launched or sold over 20 concepts.

According to an industry update from Foodservice Equipment Reports, the average restaurant unit count grew by 1.8 percent in 2023. Gibbons says FB Society’s unit count growth came in at 31 percent in 2024. The numbers tell him that his strategy of launching, growing, spinning o , and selling restaurant concepts is working—and poised for even more growth.

When guests sit down for a meal at an FB Society venue, they’re likely unaware of the company behind it— which is by design. Gibbons and his team strive to create unique concepts that transport diners to disconnected places. A tour of FB Society’s restaurants might include noshing on elk tacos while dining in an Airstream trailer at Haywire at Legacy in Plano, enjoying spirits and goat cheese fondue at Whiskey Cake in Las Colinas, or ordering up a round of sliders and hand-battered onion rings from a picnic table at Son of a Butcher on Greenville Avenue. Gibbons worked for Pappasito’s for 25 years, rising from waiter to senior concept leader at Pappas Restaurants, overseeing 33 Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchens. He learned how to run a great restaurant, grow a brand, and create systems to maximize quality

(bottom) In Addison, the unique Ida Claire blends laid-back southern cooking with bohemian

(inset) Haywire’s 33oz. Wagyu Tomahawk Ribeye with potatoes and asparagus is a star on the menu.

(top right) Whiskey Cake’s popular namesake dessert, topped with pecans and whipped cream.

(center) Mexican Sugar’s Uptown bar is fully stocked with a focus on tequila, mezcal, and agave.

(right) Sixty Vines leans into shareable plates, including charcuterie boards and pizza.

(bottom) FB Society founder Jack Gibbons says he tries to design restaurants he and his friends would enjoy.

and experience, but something was missing. “At the end of the day, you have to follow their way of doing things,” he says. “I always had an independent streak.”

As he rose through Pappasito’s ranks, Gibbons earned an MBA from the University of Dallas and became friends with Randy DeWitt. At the time, DeWitt was running Rockfish Seafood Grill, a concept he built with the backing of Chili’s parent company, Brinker International. DeWitt was looking for a restaurant exec with seafood experience to take over and run the brand.

“I asked the recruiter, ‘Who’s the best operator out there?’ The name at the top of the list was the guy running Pappadeaux—Jack Gibbons,” DeWitt says. “We tried to get in touch with him, but Jack wouldn’t return our calls. So, one day, I walked into the Pappadeaux on the Tollway and asked to see him. Jack told me flat out he wasn’t interested in leaving. But we stayed in touch.”

Gibbons says the idea of running Rockfish for Brinker wasn’t initially enticing, but DeWitt eventually pitched a more attractive vision.

The two discovered a shared desire to create new brands and scale them. DeWitt bought Rockfish back from Brinker, and the duo founded the holding company that would become FB Society. Over the next couple of decades, the two launched, spun off, and sold several concepts that put them among the upper echelon of Dallas restaurateurs (see sidebar).

But before they experienced exponential growth with now-sold concepts like Twin Peaks, Velvet Taco, and Ojos Locos, there was an empty restaurant on opening day. The pair’s first restaurant together was The Ranch at Las Colinas, a massive 14,000-square-foot venue that was different from most other eateries on that stretch of

Building Brands

Here’s a look at some of the successful restaurant concepts FB Society has launched in North Texas.

THE RANCH AT LAS COLINAS  (2009)

The original FB brand showcases the diverse tastes of Texas, from Tex-Mex specialties to seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. In 2024, it sold more alcohol than any other restaurant in Irving.

WHISKEY CAKE (2010)

With 12 locations, the brand serves farmto-kitchen meals and craft cocktails. It’s known for its specialty deviled eggs and eponymous dessert.

SIXTY VINES  (2016)

Now at 13 locations, the shared plates and pizzas at this approachable “pinkies down” eatery are designed to pair well with the 60 wines in its environmentally friendly tap system.

IDA CLAIRE  (2015)

Southern food meets a bohemian aesthetic at Ida Claire’s two locations in Addison and San Antonio, which hosts weekday vinyl happy hours. The diverse menu includes fried oysters, Nashville hot tenders, and pistou ravioli.

MEXICAN SUGAR (2013)

The three locations of Mexican Sugar have become known

for their tequila and mezcal-led cocktails, freshly made tortillas, squash blossom quesadilla, and Latinstyle paella.

HAYWIRE (2017)

With four locations and another in the works, this Marfainspired sibling of The Ranch offers a massive bone-in pork chop, mini elk tacos, and steak salad.

SON OF A BUTCHER (2020) Launched from Legacy Hall, Son of a Butcher’s four fast-casual locations balance chicken and beef sliders with boozy milkshakes. The brand is also known for its unique Thai chili Brussels sprouts side dish.

State Highway 114 in Irving. Existing in the space between a casual lunch spot and an upscale steakhouse (FB Society uses “polished casual” to describe most of its concepts), The Ranch was a bit of a gamble.

The night before it opened, DeWitt posed a question Gibbons had never considered: what happens if no one shows up? DeWitt’s question ended up being a premonition, and it was crickets on opening day at The Ranch. Ever the optimist, Gibbons didn’t despair. He took a one-day, one-guest-at-a-time approach, surrounded himself with good people and forged ahead. “It has to be successful or else,” Gibbons says. “That drive and determination lit a fire underneath me.”

THE YEARS AT PAPPASITO’S

had prepared him for the challenge. He knew what worked, was confident in the concept, and believed that it would be just a matter of time before diners discovered it. Sixteen years later, The Ranch will break $15 million in annual revenue while selling more alcohol than any other restaurant in Irving.

“Jack brings a relentless passion for hospitality and a commitment to high standards that push all of us to be better,” DeWitt says. “He has this operational intensity that’s infectious—it’s what elevates every brand he touches. His creativity is now one of his biggest strengths. He’s not just a great operator; he’s a leader who has shaped our industry in a meaningful way.”

The Ranch and Haywire are the duo’s most similar concepts, with Gibbons describing them as siblings who live on a West Texas ranch and the funky desert hamlet of Marfa, respectively. But the company’s other brands are intentionally diverse, with different culi-

scale and

sell

Over the years, Jack Gibbons and Randy DeWitt have created and sold hugely successful restaurant brands.

TWIN PEAKS

Founded in 2005 by Randy DeWitt, the breastaurant grew from its original Lewisville location and now has more than 100 venues. In 2021, California-based FAT Brands bought it for $300 million.

VELVET TACO

The original Velvet Taco on Henderson made a name when it launched in 2011 with creative tacos like the chicken tikka masala. In 2021, it sold to California’s Leonard Green & Partners, which manages $50 billion in assets. It now has 47 locations.

OJOS LOCOS

Launched in Dallas in 2010 to coincide with the World Cup that year, the Mexicanthemed sports bar has grown to 33 locations and marketed itself as a soccer bar. Comvest Credit Partners injected $100 million in capital to help the chain expand in 2022.

nary strategies, alcohol approaches, and décor. “When we create brands, we want them to be so differentiated that even if they share the same parking lot, guests don’t recognize they are created by the same group.”

The diversity also allows the restaurateurs to develop their brands in clusters, to the point where diners can often walk from one FB Society venue to another. Whiskey Cake and Sixty Vines are a literal stone’s throw from each other along the Dallas North Tollway; Mexican Sugar, Sixty Vines, and Haywire are separated by only a couple of blocks in Uptown; and Haywire and Legacy Food Hall share a wall in Plano surrounding Legacy’s Box Garden concert venue.

Gibbons’s ability to balance operational know-how and creativity is rare, says Sixty Vines CEO Jeff Carcara, who has worked in the past with the groups behind Hillstone and Del Frisco’s. “For someone like Jack, who comes out of that programmed operations environment, it is a big leap of faith to start your own business,” Carcara says. “I’m amazed at how he has developed that side of his game. He’s probably one of the most underrated restaurateurs out there right now.”

In addition to a portfolio of rapidly growing brands, FB Society subsidiary The Food Hall Co. is changing how people eat out in North Texas and beyond. Legacy Hall opened in Plano in 2017 to much fanfare and now houses 24 eateries. Chilangos Tacos and Son of a Butcher launched at the 55,000-square-foot hall and now have several locations around North Texas.

In 2021, FB Society opened the massive 100,000square-foot Assembly Food Hall in the heart of Nashville at Fifth + Broadway in Music City. In addition to 30 restaurants, the hall—the largest in the U.S.—includes three stages and the largest rooftop in Nashville that hosts country acts ranging from Diamond Rio to Luke Combs.

But The Food Hall Co.’s most ambitious project lies ahead. The forthcoming Shaver Hall will be in Amazon’s Hank building on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan in the former Lord & Taylor department store. At 35,000 square feet, there are plans for two full-size restaurants, 10 food stalls, two full-service

bars, a bodega, and live music. Gibbons and company won the project after Amazon released a request for proposal for its o ce, which is set to open in late 2025 or early 2026. “When you think about the placemaking, population, and density to do something exceptional, Manhattan has to be the top of the list,” he says.

FB SOCIETY ISN’T limiting its growth opportunities to restaurants. Gibbons, who is constantly coming up with new ideas inspired by his extensive travels, says he’s working on a food and beverage-focused hotel that will be designed from the ground up. He also has made it his mission to o er financing and guidance to other restaurateurs. He is the only outside investor, for example, in East Dallas’ Truck Yard, an outdoor plaza o Greenville Avenue that has food trucks rather than permanent stalls. “With my experience with di erent restaurant groups, I can help other founders with my skillset and learn from them at the same time,” he says.

Through this work, Gibbons is exploring opportunities to acquire concepts in the early stages of growth to help guide them through the expansion process he and his company know well.

Meantime, FB Society brands are multiplying in North Texas and beyond. Mexican Sugar and Haywire are in various stages of expanding to Houston; Haywire and Sixty Vines are launching in Austin; and Sixty Vines has locations in North Carolina, Florida, and Virginia. FB Society opened 11 restaurants in 2024, bringing the group’s total to 41 around the country.

Although the growth of FB Society in North Texas has been substantial, its most impactful influence may be directional. In a market where many restaurant concepts prove themselves in Dallas before expanding to the suburbs, FB Society went the other direction and is now teaching urban neighborhoods how the suburbs eat. “We started as just a couple of suburban dads who didn’t want to drive all the way in the city to get a proper cocktail,” Gibbons says. His authenticity, creativity, and innovation shine through in the ingredients, design, and details of his concepts. And he never stops thinking about possibilities, asking, “What’s the next big idea we think could capture people’s imagination and be scalable?”

(top right) Haywire’s The Judd cocktail honors Marfa artist Donald Judd and is smoked tableside.

(top) FB Society remodeled Char Bar, a historic building on Lower Greenville, for Son of a Butcher.

(left) Mexican Sugar’s “sultry comfort food” o erings include queso fundido and short rib fajitas.

The Future of AI

How has AI implementation transformed Aligned’s business processes, and what were significant challenges faced during this transition?

We’re proud to be the foundation for the next technology evolution; without data centers, AI as we know it today wouldn’t exist. Aligned enables AI deployments for customers with patented technology that supports the highest-density Graphics Processing Units. To meet demand, we’re also using AI to innovate across our business—from design, to cooling, to operations. Staying agile without compromising reliability is a challenge when moving fast. Our team is adept at “building the plane, while flying.” With current demand, we’re also simultaneously constructing the runway.

What areas of your business do you believe are ripe for AI-driven innovation? How are you preparing your workforce for these changes?

AI-driven data center construction is predicted to multiply sixfold during the next three years. Aligned is a leader and already leveraging AI in the way we design, build, and operate our facilities, but we believe AI can further revolutionize areas like site selection and design, supply chain and project management, and scheduling. We embrace AI as a catalyst for innovation, not a replacement for labor. We’re investing in training and upskilling to help teams leverage AI effectively and looking at ways to further integrate AI into our operations to enhance creativity, efficiency, and speed-to-market.

What AI-driven changes do you anticipate in your sector during the next three to five years? How is Aligned preparing for the future?

The exponential growth of AI-driven data centers

will continue with hyperscale facilities projected to double capacity every four years. At Aligned, we’re not just preparing for the future—we’re shaping it. Our patented technology and future-ready approach uniquely position us to support clients AI deployment today, and tomorrow. We’re staying ahead of that demand by embracing agile design and building strategies that ensure flexibility and scalability; investing in additional data center capacity; integrating AI-driven technologies to streamline processes, foster innovation, and deliver greater efficiency; and achieving sustainability at scale to ensure our growth aligns with environmental responsibility and cost-effectiveness.

How is Dallas positioned in the AI race?

As one of the fastest-growing data center markets for more than a decade, the region already has a well-established customer and provider base and, more recently, a surge of investment focused in AI and data center growth. This, coupled with a strong tech workforce and favorable business climate, makes Dallas uniquely positioned to capitalize on AI’s growth. Aligned has invested heavily in the region with planned AI and cloud infrastructure expansions across Dallas-Fort Worth.

How has AI has helped Aligned gain a competitive advantage?

Our solutions enable some of the highest-density AI deployment today, but we’re also leveraging AI to drive future growth and maintain our competitive edge in several areas:

1. Optimize cooling systems and maximizing energy efficiency

2. AI-powered predictive maintenance and security management

3. Automating repetitive tasks frees up teams to focus on creative problem-solving

ABOUT THE EXPERT:

Andrew Schaap is a data center, IT, private equity, and real estate executive with 25-plus years of complex transactional experience and multidisciplinary senior leadership. As CEO of Aligned, he has transformed the organization into one of the fastest-growing private data center companies in the Americas. Schaap serves on Aligned’s board of directors as well as a mentor for Great Minds in STEM. He is also an Advisory Council member of SMU Lyle School of Engineering. He is also the recipient of EY’s Entrepreneur of The Year 2020 Southwest award and the winner of the Tech Titans 2023 Corporate CEO Award.

ANDREW SCHAAP, CEO, ALIGNED DATA CENTERS

Ingenuity. Imaginuity.

Imaginuity embodies the spirit of Dallas— bold, inventive, and always looking forward. Just like Big D, we thrive on imagination and ingenuity, solving complex marketing challenges with integrated services powered by innovative technology platforms. By combining AI-driven insights with visionary creativity, we deliver marketing strategies that generate transformative results. Proudly rooted in North Texas, we share its trailblazing sensibility, helping those who count on us leap beyond limits and redefine potential.

FIELD NOTES

NORTH TEXAS BUSINESS ADVICE, ANALYSIS, AND COMMENTARY

Brighter Future

pursuing careers in the stem has never been

to perceive that being an engineer is beyond their reach. Engineers play a vital role in enhancing

individuals industry greater. Infrastructure bills passed in 2021 significantly increased workloads for companies in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. However, we face a critical challenge: not enough young people are entering the field, and a good percentage of those who start drop out during college. The AEC industry must amplify e orts to improve STEM outreach, engaging children at an early age when they are most curious and open-minded. At this stage, they have yet to perceive that being an engineer is beyond their reach. Engineers play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in our communities. It is especially crucial to encourage fi rst-generation students to pursue engineering careers. Doing so can dramatically alter their life trajectory, opening opportunities for personal and professional growth that might have seemed unattainable otherwise. By fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for these students, we can ensure a brighter future for both the individuals and the industry.” — As told to Layten Praytor

Texas Is Coming for Delaware’s Crown

The Lone Star State’s newly launched specialized business courts aim to provide consistency, efficiency, and a level playing field for corporate disputes.

story by WILL MADDOX

Llast january, tesla and spacex ceo elon Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Should Tesla change its state of incorporation to Texas, home of its physical headquarters?” His followers overwhelmingly responded in the affirmative.

Six months later, Tesla became incorporated in Texas after shareholders approved the move. The change followed a Delaware court ruling that voided his $56 billion compensation package, a record for a U.S. executive. After the move, shareholders also approved the pay plan.

Musk is the highest-profile exec to move his incorporation to Texas. According to records, 68.2 percent of all Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware, and 79 percent of all U.S. IPOs for 2022 listed Delaware as their “corporate home.” The state has long been the base for incorporations because of its pro-business laws and specialized Chancery Courts, which have expertise in business litigation.

As the ruling against Musk’s pay package signaled a shift in the courts’ attitudes toward big business, Texas launched a potentially game-changing challenge to Delaware’s business court system. Delaware has a separate set of courts and a specialized appeals court to handle complex and expensive business legal matters. Now, the Lone Star State has followed suit.

“Texas prides itself on being the No. 1 state for business, and yet there’s this little state called Delaware that gets an outsized share of Fortune 500 incorporations,” says Heath Cheek, a partner at Bell Nunnally who filed the first-ever case in the Texas Business Court. “The Texas legislature said, ‘We’re going to take a run at Delaware, and to do that, we need to replicate the strengths that Delaware has.’”

The courts are attractive to those involved in corporate disputes because the players know the rules of the road, Cheek says, and the judges’ experience aligns with the cases brought before the court. Although the largest counties in Texas have separate family, civil, and criminal courts, many others—even as large as Collin County— have state judges who will rule on a custody battle, then move on to an armed robbery, and finish up with a complex business contract dispute.

Many lack the expertise and time it takes to be able to consistently rule on complicated corporate matters. “What business courts have done is take those complicated, high-dollar business cases and move them into their own courts so we’re not getting inconsistent rulings,” Cheek says.

Following about two dozen other states, House Bill 19 in 2023 established business courts across Texas, focused in Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, as well as an appeals court. Judges were appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott and included a mix of former and current judges and experienced business litigators. The Business Court began receiving filings on Sept. 1, 2024 and is already outpacing caseload projections.

One of the judges in Dallas is William Whitehill, a former banker who later served as a Justice on the Texas Fifth District Court of Appeals at Dallas for six years and was a member at Condon Tobin Sladek Thornton Nerenberg. Whitehill emphasizes the court’s ability to solve problems quickly. It has the “capacity to provide

more judicial access to help resolve cases on an accelerated basis,” he says. “We are committed to innovation and creativity that will help parties resolve their cases years earlier than they experience in the traditional court system.”

If the case matches the court’s criteria for size and type of dispute, either party can request that it be moved to the new business court. If the court accepts the case, it gets added to the docket. In addition to the expertise, speed to trial is a big factor for parties involved in these disputes and cuts to the heart of providing resolution.

If two parties are engaged in a business dispute, and one side has the facts in its favor, if the other side is a corporate entity with deep pockets, it may attempt to delay the trial with copious paperwork and motions. The hope is to push the matter into arbitration, where arbiters are incentivized to clear cases by splitting the baby, denying either side a victory. The Texas Business Courts’ focus on complex cases means that parties will get a quicker trial date, leveling the playing field.

If both sides of the dispute have a clear timeline and set of rules, they are free to let their legal counsel fight it out in court and prove their case rather than being drowned in paperwork or kicked down the road. In both instances, the costs of a delayed trial can force the hand of a company that knows it has the law on its side.

“It can put some pressure on both sides that if the case goes this route, there is going to be a clear timeline for the sides to flush out the facts,” says Cody Moorse, senior corporate counsel at Sammons Industrial in Dallas. “And that is what is preferred by most. It creates a path.”

Challenges lie ahead as the new court learns to create systems and processes for handling cases, especially as the numbers rapidly grow. There is also a question about whether the judges will remain appointed or will be elected, as stated in the Texas Constitution.

Still, Judge Whitehill is confident that the Texas Business Court will be a boon for the state and lure more companies here. “A solid business court system will make Texas a more attractive place to do business and expand its role as a leading state for businesses to locate in,” he says. “Increasing the number of Texas businesses will boost Texas’ economy, thereby providing more jobs and greater opportunities for all.”

CHANGE OF VENUE

Qualifying for the Texas Business Court

The courts have specific criteria for the cases they see to maintain specialization and keep dockets open.

As defined by House Bill 19, a case can qualify for the Texas Business Court if at least $5 million is at stake in an action related to corporate governance or derivative proceedings, if the case involves a transaction that is not a loan from a bank exceeding $10 million, or if the case involves public companies. The court will not hear cases that deal with insurance, injury, death, or medical or legal malpractice, nor will it hear cases brought by or against government entities. The allowable types of cases can still be heard in state courts, but if either party attempts to move the case to the Business Court and it is accepted, the Business Court will hear the case.

What piece of advice has had the most significant impact on your career?

edited by LAYTEN PRAYTOR

“My dad always told me growing up and when going into the workplace to ‘be the very best you can be.’ It’s about approaching life with passion: Be the first at work, the first to volunteer for a tough assignment, the first to help others, the leader others want to work for, and the best man for your family. Emotional intelligence is a key component to managing interpersonal relationships and building a servant leader-style team.”

illustrations by JAKE MEYERS

DIONE KENNEDY

President and CEO

PERFORMING ARTS FORT WORTH/ BASS PERFORMANCE HALL

“It wasn’t a direct piece of advice given by someone I know, but through reading about leadership and leaders who I admire, I’ve learned to trust my instincts. My instinct has always been that creating a positive workplace for employees creates a positive impact on the business. This concept is a critical component of our organization’s success. Empowering teams to make decisions at the front line is critical to our business model and drives employee satisfaction.”

“Throughout my career, I’ve received two important pieces of advice. The first is that it’s OK to hate failure, but don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is a necessary part of life, and no one is immune. Learn from it. The second is that change is constant, so get comfortable being uncomfortable. Initially, there is always shock and fear. But once you accept that, you realize you can overcome any obstacle. It helps when you have an incredible support network.”

BARRY SHURKEY

AASEM KHALIL

Rae Liu

Co-Founder and Creative Director, Leatherology Principal, DC International

WHAT I DO:

“I lead the creative vision for Leatherology, from designing our collections to shaping the brand direction. I marry form and function, ensuring everything we create is beautiful and purposeful.”

STYLE ICON:

“Sofia Coppola, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jane Birkin all embody timeless, e ortless style that feels authentic with just the right balance of sophistication and ease.”

ON THE JOB:

“An oversized button-up shirt, jeans, and a well-tailored blazer. I value comfort in an approachable way that feels polished but never overdone.”

STYLE INSPIRATION:

“I love the simplicity and e ortless elegance of

David Liu

1990’s minimalism. Clean lines, subtle details, and everyday elegance.”

FASHION ESSENTIALS:

“A great serum and moisturizer, U Beauty Plasma Lip Compound, and a classic A5 leather notebook.”

HOW I ACCESSORIZE:

“I’m a minimalist, but I love a statement chain necklace from Sherman Field and some stacked rings.”

WEEKEND LOOK:

“As a mom of two, comfort is key. You’ll find me in Vuori leggings and a sweatshirt—something casual and practical for whatever the day throws my way.”

FAVORITE STORE:

“I’m drawn to Maison Empereur in Marseille. But I’m happy just wandering the aisles at Target.”

Principal and Chief Marketing O cer, DC International

WHAT I DO:

“I’m the co-owner and CMO of the parent company for two digitally native brands, Leatherology and Coverstore. O cial title aside, my role is dynamic— every day is di erent.”

STYLE ICON:

“I don’t have a specific style icon—it’s more about what feels right for me and makes me feel comfortable and confident.”

ON THE JOB:

“My work keeps me on my toes, so I stick to outfits that are casual but put together. Think black jeans, Brooks Adrenaline GTS sneakers, and a simple solid oxford button-down.”

STYLE INSPIRATION:

“My travels and surroundings are my biggest inspirations. Whether it’s exploring a vibrant city or rugged landscapes, I find

Brewing Community

With 15 White Rhino locations across North Texas, founder and CEO Chris Parvin aims to transform lives through philanthropy and a shared passion for java.

story by VICTOR SANCHEZ

new inspiration everywhere I go.”

FASHION ESSENTIALS:

“Believe it or not, cowboy boots. I got my first pair from Tecovas last year, and now I can’t live without them. They’re comfortable and pair surprisingly well with almost anything.”

HOW I ACCESSORIZE:

“My staples are blackframed Tom Ford glasses and my trusty ‘CASH’ baseball cap I bought at the Johnny Cash Museum.”

WEEKEND LOOK:

“All black (almost) all the time. Minimal, monochromatic, and easy to throw together is what I aim for.”

FAVORITE STORE:

“Sacai in Tokyo and Lemaire in Paris. Both perfectly balance timeless wardrobe staples with bolder statement pieces.”

since its first venue opened in cedar hill in 2007, white rhino Co ee has expanded to 15 locations across the region, focusing on communities without craft co ee shops. But for founder and CEO Chris Parvin, who’s also the founder of Parvin Law Group and commercial real estate fi rm Parvin Partners, the goals go beyond growth. “We want to do more than just say we’re making the world a better place,” he says. “We want to demonstrate it, whether it’s baristas serving meals to our homeless friends or roasters creating roasts for nonprofits.”

Parvin has personally donated $1 million to local nonprofits, but to expand his impact, he launched the White Rhino Co ee Foundation in January 2024 with a mission of addressing homelessness, hunger, and at-risk youth by providing funds to organizations focused on those issues. The foundation has supported initiatives like OurCalling’s e orts to house terminally ill homeless individuals and sponsored Dallas CASA’s Champion of Children Award Dinner with a $100,000 donation.

“It’s our way of taking the success of the business and translating it into tangible benefits for those in need, whether through fi nancial contributions, community programs, or direct support,” Parvin says.

That philanthropic drive took center stage at the 2024 Cattle Baron’s Ball, where Parvin donated $500,000 for cancer research. “It isn’t just a number; it’s a commitment to push the boundaries of possibility,” he says.

White Rhino plans to jump into new markets, eventually across state lines. He’s also brewing up ideas for programs like “round up at the register” and other charity-driven platforms. “Our goal is to become the largest North Texas philanthropic organization driven by a medium-sized business,” he says.

GREATER GOOD

HIGH-IMPACT CEO Between his ventures in co ee, estate law, amd commercial real estate, Chris Parvin employs about 200 people in DFW.

CONGRATULATIONS

Texans Credit Union, led by David Frazier, has been named a finalist in the category of Innovation in Banking and Finance.

Texans' personal loans, auto loans, mortgages, and checking accounts are the best in the Lone Star State. We're big, we're confident, and we're all in for our fellow Texans.

On behalf of heroic organ & tissue donors, their courageous families, & grateful transplant recipients, & you

thank for celebrating

thank for celebrating

On behalf of heroic organ & tissue donors, their courageous families, & grateful transplant recipients, honors legacies saves lives! our commitment to innovation, which you

WELL TRAVELED

California’s Central Coast

From rugged shorelines to historic towns and lush wineries, variety abounds in Accenture exec Jorge Corral’s old stomping grounds.

story by CHRISTINE PEREZ

Anastasia’s

ROYAL HOME

The opulent and historic Hearst Castle boasts a vast collection of fine art and rare antiques.

SUNSET CRUISE Gondolier Stefano

boat is a rare wedding gondola that was hand-carved in the 1960s.

LOVING TREES

Niner Wine Estate’s Heart Hill Vineyard is named for a heart-shaped grove of oak trees that was shaped in the 1950s.

LIGHT AND AIRY Booker’s indooroutdoor visitor center, opened in 2021, sits above an underground wine cave.

ITALIAN CHARM The design of Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles evokes a luxurious Tuscan villa.

BREAKING FAST Morning fare at Lido in Pismo Beach includes a next-level açaí bowl and French Toast with berries.

WELL TRAVELED

California’s Central Coast

From rugged shorelines to historic towns and lush wineries, variety abounds in Accenture exec Jorge Corral’s old stomping grounds.

story by CHRISTINE PEREZ

Anastasia’s

ROYAL HOME

The opulent and historic Hearst Castle boasts a vast collection of fine art and rare antiques.

SUNSET CRUISE Gondolier Stefano

boat is a rare wedding gondola that was hand-carved in the 1960s.

LOVING TREES

Niner Wine Estate’s Heart Hill Vineyard is named for a heart-shaped grove of oak trees that was shaped in the 1950s.

LIGHT AND AIRY Booker’s indooroutdoor visitor center, opened in 2021, sits above an underground wine cave.

ITALIAN CHARM The design of Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles evokes a luxurious Tuscan villa.

BREAKING FAST Morning fare at Lido in Pismo Beach includes a next-level açaí bowl and French Toast with berries.

YOUSEF KATTAN

Founder and CEO TRUTH ADVERTISING

WORLD TRAVELER

A young Yousef

BUILDING A LEGACY

Kattan says he felt a responsibilty to not let his mother down, given how hard she worked getting established in the U.S.

high-pressure situations don’t scare Yousef Kattan. The son of a Lebanese father who worked around the world with Marriott and a Mexican mother in the journalism field, Kattan immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico in 1994 to attend high school, just as his parents separated. He landed in San Antonio with his grandparents for a year, attending a private school to play basketball before reuniting with his mother and younger sisters once they moved to America. With the new family arrangement, Kattan felt the responsibility of looking after his siblings. As his mother attempted to reestablish herself in the States, Kattan made sure to make the most of his opportunity to get a good education. As a young teenager navigating the transition from his childhood in Puerto Vallarta to a very structured lifestyle in the U.S., Kattan understood the value of his multicultural heritage and his family staying together through the most challenging of times. Today, after 15 years at the helm of Dallas-based Truth Advertising, which has clients like 7-Eleven,

Wrangler, and Total Wine, he closely follows those same principles. “I built the agency to be a reflection of the communities we serve,” Kattan says. “I needed to see people of color and different languages and cultures. I want to know that you’ve been through adverse situations and lost more than you have won. It’s important to have the ability to work with others you might not see eye-to-eye with politically or religiously. If you don’t understand how to build properly from the beginning, those are culture killers. From a family standpoint, the best thing that ever happened was the appreciation to have and to not have. Value what you should and the people you need in life versus what you don’t. Doing so was incredibly influential to me in those years where we had to start all over.”

story by LAYTEN PRAYTOR

illustration by JAKE MEYERS

Kattan went on a trip to Syria with his family, where he made music alongside a street band.

NEW WAY OF LIFE

Kattan’s grandparents created a structured environment for him after he moved to San Antonio from a resort town in Mexico.

BUILDING COURAGE AND CONFIDENCE

How local companies and the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas foster a passion for STEM learning and careers among girls of all ages.

NEARLY 30% OF THE STEM WORKFORCE IS COMPRISED

OF WOMEN, and North Texas is leading the way in this shift toward equality between men and women in STEM careers. This progress is due in part to forward-thinking companies that have made it a priority to attract and promote women in all STEM-related fields.

Companies that want to provide more opportunities for women in STEM and recruit the best in the industry understand that fostering a passion for STEM starts early. Whether through their own programs or by joining community-wide efforts, companies that are committed to this change are making early connections with young women and girls by providing examples and opportunities to help them see themselves not only in STEM careers but holding leadership positions as well.

Many women who are considered trailblazers in STEM careers can look back on their lives and pin-

point when their initial interest in STEM began, which is often in elementary school. For many, it was an inspiring teacher or participation in a camp filled with exciting, hands-on learning opportunities that ignited an initial spark.

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas’ Camp Whispering Cedars, home to the STEM Center of Excellence, has set the standard in fostering a passion for STEM among girls throughout North Texas. A 92-acre, $15 million hub of inspiration, the center is a sprawling living laboratory in southern Dallas and the first of its kind in the United States. It provides year-round opportunities in robotics, computer coding, botany, chemistry, and more. Through the STEM Center of Excellence, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas is feeding the STEM workforce pipeline to meet the urgent need for female voices, engagement, and leadership in the fastest-growing sector of the U.S. economy.

Thanks to the generous support of Texas Instruments, the T.I. Innovation Center at Camp Whispering Cedars is getting a makeover. The renovation will transform the Center into a hub for the camp’s robotics and drone programming. The Innovation Center will also serve as an incubator for a new concept that Camp Whispering Cedars is launching called Girl Scout DreamLab. The design and construction of two DreamLabs are underway in South Dallas and Denton County, and eventually there will be more labs throughout North Texas and East Texas.

“The idea is to bring the STEM Center of Excellence to girls and boys in communities throughout North Texas and beyond who possibly can’t get to our main campus,” says Jenn Makins, vice president of Girl Experience. “Each DreamLab will include a science lab, classrooms, meeting spaces, multimedia studio for podcasts and videos, and other features, such as regular workshops and events, which inspire learning. DreamLabs will be open to the public as well as to Girl Scout troops. It’s a way for us to branch out and serve even more communities, and another opportunity for hands-on learning.”

Girl Scouts also offers the Girl Scout Leadership Institute, sponsored by Amazon, for older girls who are interested in pursuing STEM studies and careers. “High school girls only know careers they can see, so this program is intended to broaden their horizons and introduce all the different careers that are available,” Makins says. “We partner with different companies during the spring and summer to do behind-the-scenes tours of tech companies, illustrate a day in the life of women working in STEM, and provide job shadowing opportunities.”

MK Futrell is a camp alum of Camp Whispering Cedars. Today, she is in the final year of her master’s program in Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management at Texas A&M University. She says the STEM

Vice president of Girl Experience and IF/ THEN Ambassador Jenn Makins at the newly renovated T.I. Innovation Center at The Girl Scout STEM Center of Excellence

programs offered by Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas give girls a chance to dive into hands-on experiences that make STEM come to life.

“I truly believe that the best way to learn is by doing, and the opportunities here—whether it’s coding, robotics, or exploring environmental science—are all about that,” she says. “It’s not just learning concepts; it’s applying them. When you can actually see and touch what you’re working on, it builds a kind of confidence and understanding that sticks with you.”

Makins says she sees firsthand what can happen if girls don’t have an advocate in their corner encouraging them to stay persistent in exploring math and science. Without guidance, they risk falling behind, or not trying at all. “Women in tech have been the loudest and proudest in breaking barriers, but there are STEM-related industries that are hidden to girls,” Makins says. “The STEM industry is tied to so much of the modern world that it is part of our everyday lives. When women help solve these problems facing our planet, the better and more inclusive the solutions will be.”

The STEM Center of Excellence provides access to hands-on, real world learning opportunities that engage and excite. The hope is that the girls who participate in these programs will return to their school classrooms and proudly choose STEM learning opportunities there and beyond. “The goal is to provide fun, practical applications they can research, then complete on their own,” Makins says.

Girl Scouts and The STEM Center of Excellence rely on community collaboration to present the highest quality weekend workshops and summer experiences. “We are excited about being in a community with neighbors in and across our area who can either front-load or reinforce concepts about how to take the practical lessons they learn here and apply them to real-world careers,” Makins says. “It’s important to create a pipeline of workforce in Northeast Texas and beyond as our girls move forward in their studies and in their careers. It begins with courage and confidence.”

Local STEM leaders and trailblazers offer insight and advice.

“Imposter syndrome is real but realize that it’s inherently driven by your quest for perfection and that discomfort will push you to your best self. Find your people—those who inspire you, support you, and uplift you.”

MADHURI CHANDOOR

Vice President, Financial Services Tech, Capital One

“With a STEM background, the possibilities stretch far and wide, opening doors to careers in technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and even creative industries—where innovation thrives in every corner. That’s an important message for our community to embrace while continuing to encourage women and girls toward paths in STEM.”

KC HURST

Chief Marketing and Experience O cer, Perot Museum of Nature and Science

“A STEM career o ers endless opportunities for growth and discovery. Women pursuing STEM should embrace curiosity, explore diverse fields, and seek mentors. Enjoy the journey, as your contributions can help push boundaries and create meaningful impact.”

SAM ANDREWS

General Manager and Market Leader, Slalom

“Your unique perspective and talents can drive innovation, so believe in yourself. While there may be challenges, remember that countless women have succeeded in STEM careers and paved the way for others.”

JENNIFER WEST

Vice President, U.S. Income Tax Compliance, Thomson Reuters

“Start by dreaming big and taking small steps. Join a science club, attend a camp, or explore online resources. Every e ort builds momentum.”

DR. DIANA ELROD

Director of Center for Student Research, Texas Woman’s University

“Embrace curiosity, never stop learning, and remember that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek out mentors, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

SUSAN FOJTASEK

Chief of Sta , Improving

“We still have progress to make in achieving gender parity in STEM, but we’ve come a long way. You can play a vital role in continuing this momentum. Stay determined and curious, and know that you can make a significant impact.”

GAIL STOUT PERRY

Partner, Credera

“STEM knowledge is essential. It opens doors to countless opportunities. STEM thrives on diverse voices and perspectives. Embrace your passions, stay curious, and know that you have a place in STEM.”

DAWN OWENS, PHD

Associate Dean of Undergraduate, University of Texas at Dallas

“STEM careers require a lot of education. For girls who love to learn, this can be amazingly fulfilling and keep their career fresh! However, it can also feel discouraging sometimes as it’s hard to get a handle on something that is constantly changing. Try to channel that discomfort into a passion to keep learning.”

KAYLEIGH BEACHAM

Harvard Medical School Student and Camp Whispering Cedars Alum

A Cadette Girl Scout turns her ideas into reality one layer at a time while participating in a 3D printing workshop at the T.I. Innovation Center.

From Left to Right: Indu Jain, Vice President Madhuri Chandoor, Vice President

Madhuri Chandoor and Indu Jain

WOMEN REPRESENT 49.5% of the workforce at Capital One, and the company continually invests in initiatives that provide opportunities for women to expand professionally and thrive personally. The representation of women in leadership has grown consecutively each year since 2020, and 33.8% of the executive leadership roles are held by women. Capital One continues to pay women globally 100% of what men are paid.

Across the company, women leaders hold senior roles in technology, with focus areas ranging from software engineering to product management, enterprise data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and more.

At Capital One, diversity, inclusion and belonging are central to the company culture and community commitments. The company has formed deep external partnerships with organizations like DFW*Alliance of Technology and Women, AfroTech, Per Scholas, Year Up, Women Who Code, AnitaB. org Institute, the Hispanic IT Executive Council, The DEC Women Entrepreneurship Program, WEDallas, and Girls Inc.

“I have been at Capital One for a very long time, and if there is one thing I can tell you about the company, it is that culture counts. There are so many ways for women to get

involved and build a network across the organization, and to learn from other people’s experiences and perspectives,” says Indu Jain, vice president and chief technology officer for Dealer Tech at Capital One.

Several of Capital One’s associate-led Business Resource Groups (BRGs) are committed to developing the next generation of women leaders, including the Women in Tech, Allies in Tech, and empowHER BRGs. Recognizing the challenges women face in the technology industry, Capital One established the Women in Tech BRG to help elevate and support women technologists through mentoring, speaker training, skill building, allyship, and community partnerships.

“Having joined Capital One in the summer of 2024, I’ve been so impressed with the company’s commitment to building a diverse technology workforce. Our customers are broadly representative of the population in our country, and teams that have a broad range of backgrounds, skills and work styles enable us to serve those customers in the best way possible,” says Madhuri Chandoor, vice president, Financial Services Tech, Capital One. “Women are part of every aspect of building our technology—which is critical to our collective success.”

Capital One

CREDERA, A GLOBAL CONSULTING FIRM founded and headquartered in Dallas, is incredibly proud of and passionate about supporting women in STEM in the workplace and beyond.

Credera has an employee resource group, Women in Engineering (WinE), whose specific focus is on women in tech roles or who have a shared interest in technology. WinE provides space to address the unique challenges of female technologists and helps them find a supportive professional and personal community. Not only does Credera believe this is good for its female technologists, but it’s good for clients as well, as investments in diversity lead to increased innovation and top talent retention and acquisition. “As a woman in technology, I’ve greatly enjoyed mentoring and connecting with other women in tech through our employee resource groups,” says Shelby Rizzuto, principal architect. “WinE provides the structure for us to connect and learn from each other and help each other thrive.”

Additionally, Credera Community Impact (CCI) is Credera’s philanthropic arm, focused on positively impacting the communities it serves. The mission of CCI is to make a difference in the lives of people who are circumstantially blocked from reaching their full potential, specifically in

STEM awareness, access, and education.

Credera partners with people of all ages and backgrounds, but primarily with students and nonprofits that promote education and STEM to diverse groups of people. Credera works directly with constituents by delivering classes and workshops, and the pro bono NonProfit Consulting Leadership Program gives consultants a chance to plan and execute end-to-end client projects for CCI partners. Credera also creates content that can further educate students in STEM or grow their STEM abilities, including producing STEM kits or educational content that can be leveraged multiple times by different groups.

“Credera’s company mission is to make an extraordinary impact on our clients, our people, and our communities,” says Gail Stout Perry, partner at Credera. “CCI is how we operationalize the last portion of our mission statement by intentionally focusing our collective efforts toward a common purpose that aligns with the work we do. By helping those who are circumstantially blocked from STEM access, we make a measurable impact on our local communities while living out our core values together. I am so proud of our STEM initiatives and the collective impact we’ve made!”

Left to Right: Gail Stout Perry, Partner; Xing Meng, Ph.D., Data Science Consultant; Chelsea Cline, Senior Architect; Samantha Papageorge, Data Consultant; Aparna Raman, Partner; Nickoria Johnson, Partner and Chief Diversity O cer; Hannah Anderson, Front-End Architect; Rose White, Front-End Development Consultant; Kristina Ninan, Senior Technology Consultant

KC Hurst

PEROTMUSEUM.COM • @PEROTMUSEUM • LINKEDIN.COM/IN/KCBYDAY

KC HURST, CHIEF MARKETING AND EXPERIENCE OFFICER of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, has been a leader in social impact organizations, focusing on public education and arts and cultural institutions for more than 18 years. Before joining the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in fall 2024, she spent a decade in higher education, making a pivot to museums in 2018 with the Dallas Museum of Art where she ascended to chief marketing and communications officer. She also served as the first chief marketing, communications, and digital officer with the renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the Momentary, founded by Alice Walton.

As a marketer, technology has always been at the forefront of her practice and an essential ingredient to the successes she’s helped her organizations achieve. From leading COVID-activated digital acceleration initiatives, to driving full digital transformation programs and marketing technology enhancements as a brand-building imperative, her CMO journey has been paved by understanding the connecting tissue of STEM in her function. However, she notes that there is room to help more girls and women discover the variety of entry points to STEM-related careers.

“There’s no part of my career that hasn’t been directly connected to technology, ever,” Hurst says. “So much of what goes into marketing and customer experience strategy relies on data science, analytics, and a tech toolbox to put the puzzle pieces together. There’s a vast application of STEM skills needed in some of today’s most exciting and in-demand careers. I wouldn’t be effective in this arena without a solid base in mathematics and computing skills.”

In her new role with the Perot Museum, Hurst’s vision is to bring together her experience in both education and museums to help shape Dallas communities for tomorrow. Much of her previous work in higher education focused on filling a more diverse pipeline to essential healthcare and technology careers to overcome Texas’ workforce gaps.

“With a STEM background, the possibilities stretch far and wide, opening doors to careers in technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and even creative industries—where innovation thrives in every corner,” Hurst says. “I think that’s an important message for our community to embrace while continuing to encourage women and girls toward paths in STEM.”

WOMEN

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

SLALOM REMAINS an unrivaled stand out when it comes to supporting women in STEM in the workplace and beyond. Slalom has raised the bar in the industry by creating multiple employee resource groups, including Women in Tech (WIT). This group develops Slalom women’s technical and business skills, creates an inclusive and thriving community of thought leaders, and fosters external relationships with partners and organizations, such as Girls who Code, Black Girls Code, Women Who Code, the Grace Hopper Program, Women in Tech Texas, and She Geeks Out, among others.

“North Texas is fostering a vibrant and supportive community for women in STEM, with enterprises, industry leaders, universities, and nonprofits launching programs focused on continuing education, internships, professional development,

and leadership training” says Sam Andrews, general manager at Slalom. “At Slalom, we are deeply committed to creating opportunities for women to lead, amplifying female role models, and empowering women to push boundaries and unlock their full potential in technology, engineering, and science.”

With more than 10,000 employees across the globe— over 300 in Dallas-Fort Worth—women comprise a significant portion of Slalom’s team and are making impactful contributions in cloud development, mobile application development, product engineering, coding, data analytics, and more. These women also work to influence and support the pipeline of school-aged girls in the STEM field, increase representation of women in technology, and teach classes at UTD to generate excitement about STEM. These efforts

have not gone unnoticed, as Slalom has been named among the Best Workplaces for Women™ by Great Place to Work® for the last seven years.

“As a Hispanic woman in STEM, I take pride in breaking barriers and creating pathways for future generations,” says Megan Ames, principal consultant at Slalom. “My journey has allowed me to bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to my clients. As a leader in DFW Fuerza, a corporate partnership of Latino employee resource groups, I’ve been able to foster inclusivity, amplify representation, and create leadership opportunities to expand the presence of Hispanics within our client organizations. Though my path to STEM has been unconventional, I’m grateful for the incredible mentors who have guided me and helped shape my path toward success.”

From Left to Right: Sam Andrews, General Manager Megan Ames, Principal Consultant

Texas Woman’s University

TWU.EDU • @TXWOMANS • LINKEDIN.COM/SCHOOL/TEXASWOMANSUNIVERSITY

TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY is becoming a major player in the world of STEM discovery.

Neurobiologist Dayna Averitt is discovering novel pain mechanisms linked to stress and hormonal imbalances that contribute to pain in women warranting gender-specific pain management.

Occupational therapy professor and cognitive neuroscientist Asha Vas is researching functional and technology based treatments aimed at improving cognitive skills in patients with brain injuries.

And computer science professor and researcher Jian Zhang is exploring new methods to broaden how students learn computing concepts.

These scientists are among a cadre of Texas Woman’s innovators whose cutting-edge research could lead to significant contributions in STEM that may impact people everywhere, and their discoveries are integral to the university’s strategic initiative to significantly increase STEM activity in everything from scholarships to programming.

portunities for our students,” says Diana Elrod, director of TWU’s Center for Student Research. “This is about moving the needle in transformative research that can significantly impact countless lives.”

The university has committed to doubling the number of STEM opportunities available to students through courses, scholarships, internships, work experiences, mentorships, and professional networking over the next five years.

“This is about much more than just ramping up STEM op-

It’s a commitment that will produce more graduates with critical-thinking skills essential to addressing complex global challenges while also providing opportunities for students to develop knowledge and abilities to thrive in a STEM-related workforce.

Already, research activity has escalated to new heights at TWU, some of it supported with highly coveted grants from entities such as the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. What’s more, the university is poised to be recognized in 2025 with the second-highest category of research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

Pictured:

Dr. Juliet Spencer, Director, School of the Sciences; Dr. Helen Everts, Associate Professor, Nutrition & Food Sciences; Dr. Jian Zhang, Professor, Computer Science; Dr. Mandana Pahlavani, Assistant Professor, Nutrition & Food Sciences; Dr. Shiru Lin, Assistant Professor, Chemistry & Biochemistry; Dr. Xiaofen Du, Associate Professor, Nutrition & Food Sciences; Dr. Nasrin Mirsaleh-Kohan, Division Head, Chemistry & Biochemistry; Dr. Mikyoung Lee, Professor, Nursing; Dr. Sharon Wang-Price, Professor, Physical Therapy Dr. Stephanie Pierce, Director, PSM in Biotechnology Program; Dr. Asha Vas, Professor, Occupational Therapy; Dr. Brandi Falley, Division Head, Mathematics; Dr. Dayna Averitt, Division Head, Research & Graduate Studies in Biology; Dr. Ann Davis, head, Division Head, Undergraduate Studies in Biology; Dr. Alexis Hardesty, Assistant Professor, Mathematics

WOMEN LEADING STEM

Thomson Reuters

THOMSON REUTERS HAS MADE SIGNIFICANT STRIDES in the past year to support and empower women in STEM, and its efforts have been recognized by the WomenTech Network. This is a global platform designed for women in various roles within the technology industry aiming to foster a supportive community, promote professional growth, and inspire more women to join the tech sector.

Through their expertise and leadership, women in tech at Thomson Reuters continue to shape and positively impact the company’s future. They drive technological advancements, pioneer innovative solutions, and ensure the delivery of trusted, actionable intelligence to clients. Their contributions not only maintain the company’s status as a global content-driven and AI technology leader, but also push the boundaries of what’s possible. By fostering an environment where women in STEM can thrive, Thomson Reuters is not just enhancing its own capabilities but setting a standard for excellence and innovation that benefits the entire professional world.

By promoting women in STEM, Thomson Reuters has addressed gender imbalances in traditionally male-dominated fields, providing rewarding career opportunities and building

a more equitable society. Thomson Reuters is committed to nurturing the next generation of women in STEM as well, with a strong focus on technology internships and mentorship programs. A prime example of this commitment is the internship program at Thomson Reuters Labs, a dedicated applied research division. This program has been instrumental in launching the careers of numerous talented women in tech. Women constitute 47% of Thomson Reuters’ total workforce. Of the senior executives, 46% are women and 42% of directors and vice presidents are women. Company managers are comprised of 43% women, maintaining levels since 2020.

“These figures underscore our commitment to gender diversity and reflect the tangible results of our ongoing efforts,” says Jennifer West, vice president of product content, global tax, and trade. “While we celebrate the strides we’ve made, we recognize that the journey toward true gender parity is ongoing. We remain dedicated to fostering an environment where women can thrive, lead, and shape, the future of technology, setting a standard for diversity and inclusion in the technology industry and beyond.”

WOMEN LEADING STEM

Left to Right: Jennifer West, Vice President Product Content, Global Tax & Trade; Nancy Hawkins, Vice President Product Management; Claudia Coleman, Vice President Design Operations

WOMEN LEADING STEM

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas

GSNETX.ORG • @GSNETX • LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/GIRLSCOUTSNETX

GIRL SCOUTS HAS CHANGED the lives of girls since it was founded in 1912, and introducing girls to STEM studies and careers has long been a part its mission. Two of many Girl Scouts’ STEM success stories began in North Texas.

Kayleigh Beacham will graduate with her M.D. in 2027 from Harvard. She was introduced to STEM experiences when earning badges for Girl Scouts. She fondly remembers Cookie Box Creations, a competition in which teams of Girls Scouts work with professional architects and engineers to make larger-thanlife structures from Girl Scout cookie boxes. “I saw how real women architects and engineers engage scientific principles to tackle a problem from beginning to end,” Beacham says. “Girls Scouts’ programming helped me turn my ideas from a nebulous ‘I love science’ to specific career goals.”

MK Futrell is nearing completion of her master’s program

in Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management at Texas A&M. She aims to apply what she has learned about science accessibility, environmental policy, and conservation in a communication-focused role. Her first Girl Scout camp experience was at Camp Whispering Cedars, now home to the STEM Center of Excellence.

For her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Futrell partnered with scientists from the National Park Service to form Project ReefLove, a public awareness campaign dedicated to education about the impacts of chemical sunscreens on coral reefs. “We influenced environmental legislation in places with vulnerable coral reefs,” she says. “Through this project, I discovered my passion for science communication. The programs offered by GSNETX give girls the chance to dive into hands-on experiences that make STEM come to life!”

Left to Right: MK Futrell; Jennifer K. Bartkowski, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas; Jenn Makins, VP of Girl Experience and IF/THEN Ambassador; Kayleigh Beacham

Improving

FROM PIONEERS WHO CREATED THEIR OWN SEATS at the table to today’s visionary leaders, women in STEM are at the pinnacle of progress. They’re not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards for future generations. Improving proudly celebrates these extraordinary women whose brilliance, determination, and unique perspectives are transforming the technology landscape and inspiring the next wave of leaders.

“Women in tech have cultivated creative and successful environments,” says Improving’s chief of staff, Susan Fojtasek.

“We hope to see women in leadership roles inspire and mentor the next generation, as we continue to bring our unique perspectives to the problems we are solving.”

Improving is proud to disrupt the IT industry by positively changing the perception of the IT professional. From developing cutting-edge software solutions to leading sustainability initiatives and everything in between, Improving is grateful for the women leading the organization, whose innovation drives a more dynamic and forward-thinking industry.

Left to Right: Kristin Johnson, Vice President of Marketing; Susan Fojtasek, Chief of Sta ; Gabriela Garza-Ramos, Vice President of Recruiting; Lyn Barrett, Director of Consulting; Amber Robinson, Corporate Counsel; Diana Stevens, Vice President of Sales; Tonya Guadiz, Director of Consulting; Bethany Hilton, Director of Corporate A airs

The University of Texas at Dallas

JINDAL.UTDALLAS.EDU • @JINDAL_UTDALLAS.EDU • @NAVEEN JINDAL SCHOOL

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS stands at the forefront of transforming education and empowering tomorrow’s pioneers. Leading this charge is the Naveen Jindal School of Management. The Jindal School’s leadership, faculty, and staff are steadfast in their support of women pursuing STEM careers through a rigorous curriculum, dedicated mentorship, and networking opportunities with Fortune 500 companies.

A hallmark of the Jindal School’s innovative approach is its offering of five STEM-related management courses—an uncommon feature in business programs nationwide. This focus on blending business acumen with technical expertise reflects the demands of an evolving workforce. Nearly half of UT Dallas’ student population is female, demonstrating the university’s commitment to creating opportunities across disciplines.

OF MANAGEMENT, UT DALLAS

The Jindal School has earned national and international recognition for its programs, both on campus and online. It ranks No. 2 worldwide and in North America for research productivity in the UTD Top 100 Business School Rankings™ and Top 100 Full-Time Global MBA Programs, Financial Times (2024). U.S. News & World Report ranks the MBA program No. 15 among public university programs. This commitment to excellence extends to entrepreneurship. The university’s award-winning Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, in partnership with the Blackstone Launchpad, has helped produce nearly 600 startup companies in the past six years. With an innovative approach, UT Dallas is reshaping the narrative for women in STEM, building pathways for leadership and groundbreaking discovery. The future demands different.

WOMEN LEADING STEM

Left to Right: Michelle Bellamy, Director, MS Information Technology and Management; Mary King, Director, MS Accounting and Analytics Flex Program; Anna Ladipo, Academic Director and Associate Professor; Rhonda Bush, Assistant Dean, Executive Education; Rebecca Watts, Director, Executive MBA; Monica Brussolo, Ph.D., Director, BS Supply Chain Management, Operations/Supply Chain Management; Dawn Owens, Ph.D., Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs

The D CEO Women Leading STEM Forum brings together top thinkers, pioneers, and executives shaping the future of women in STEM. Partnering with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas, this initiative amplifies leadership stories, builds future pipelines, and drives progress toward closing the Dallas-Fort Worth STEM gender gap. Join us for three hours of impactful programming and exceptional networking.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM PEROT MUSEUM 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit:

TITLE: Capital One | Improving | Perot Museum of Nature and Science | Slalom Consulting | Texas Woman’s University | Thomson Reuters PREMIER: American Heart Association | Credera University of Texas at Dallas Jindal School of Management

as of December 9, 2024

Fort Worth’s Philanthropic Oil Baron

SID RICHARDSON

April 25, 1891–Sept. 30, 1959

Bstory by VICTOR SANCHEZ

orn in 1891 in athens, texas, sid richardson came from humble beginnings and briefly attended Baylor University and Hardin-Simmons College before pursuing a career that led to becoming one of the most successful oil tycoons of his era. He worked as a salesman, scout, and lease purchaser for an oil well supply company, and in 1919, teamed up with lifelong friend and fellow oil investor Clint Murchison Sr. The two built fortunes that fluctuated with the volatile 1920s energy market. But when Richardson struck it big in Keystone Field between Odessa and Kermit in West Texas, it secured his place as an industry powerhouse. He expanded his reach as president of several eponymous Fort Worth-based companies and later segued into ranching. His love for the American West inspired him to amass a significant collection of Western art and establish a museum. It opened to the public in 1982 as the Sid Richardson Museum in Fort Worth and stands as one of the largest collections of its kind. In 1947, he launched the Sid W. Richardson Foundation. Additionally, an academic college at Rice University, an auditorium at the Amon Carter Museum, buildings at 10 Texas universities, and a tower at a Texas Health hospital all bear his name. Richardson, who was a bachelor when he died in 1959 at just 68 years old, left his fortune to his beloved nephew, Perry Richardson Bass, father of the notable Bass brothers (Sid, Ed, Robert, and Lee) of Fort Worth.

POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO D, 750 NORTH ST. PAUL STREET, SUITE 2100, DALLAS, TX 75201. D CEO (ISSN 2688-4852), IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY WITH THE EXCEPTION OF COMBINED ISSUES IN JANUARY/ FEBRUARY AND JUNE/JULY AND SPECIAL ISSUES IN FEBRUARY AND NOVEMBER BY D MAGAZINE PARTNERS, 750 NORTH ST. PAUL STREET, SUITE 2100, DALLAS, TX 75201. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE IS PENDING AT DALLAS, TX AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.

DINNER PARTY

From left: Amon Carter, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Sid Richardson dine at Carter’s home.