By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
In a fervent display of unity and determination, U.S. Senate hopeful Colin Allred, accompanied by his wife Aly Eber , joined Texas Democrats at White Oak Music Hall to launch their groundbreaking initiative, “Texas Offense.” This bold campaign is aimed squarely at defeating incumbent Senator Ted Cruz and turning Texas blue, just 100 days before the November election. Allred electrified the crowd with his confident declaration: “On Nov. 5, I’m going to defeat Ted Cruz.” This rallying cry was met with thunderous applause, underscoring the Democrats’ resolve to bring about a new era of leadership in Texas. State Senator Carol Alvarado further ignited the audience’s enthusiasm with her witty remark, “In 100 days, we can say adios to Cruz and send him on a one-way flight to Cancun.”
Among the notable figures supporting this initiative were Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee and State Representative Gene Wu Menefee highlighted the importance of unity and voter turnout, stating, “This is our moment to stand together and make our voices heard. We need every vote to ensure a better future for Texas.” Wu emphasized the significance of community engagement, adding, “We are here to fight for our rights and
our future. Together, we can bring the change we need.”
Despite Cruz’s lead in most polls and a financial edge, Allred’s campaign has demonstrated a remarkable ability to outpace Cruz’s previous challenger, Beto O’Rourke , in fundraising. This momentum reflects a growing wave of support for Allred’s platform, which champions gun safety, sensible border policies, and women’s reproductive rights. Susan Pollard from Moms Demand Action expressed her optimism, noting the palpable excitement among voters eager for change.
The rally was not without its challenges, as Allred’s speech was briefly interrupted by protesters opposing his stance on the Gaza conflict. Nonetheless, Allred remained steadfast, emphasizing his support for Israel while calling for adherence to international law.
“Texas Offense” represents an unprecedented collaboration between the state party and Allred’s campaign, designed to mobilize grassroots support through coordinated volunteer efforts, block walking, and phone banking. Rodney Ellis, Harris County Precinct One Commissioner, highlighted the critical importance of voter turnout, stating, “Texas is not a red state, it’s a blue state that does not vote.”
The rally also featured powerful voices like Amanda Zurawski, who sued the state over its draconian abortion restrictions, and Gilberto Hinojosa, chair of the Texas Democratic Party. Hinojosa hailed the initiative as a historic effort to galvanize support for Allred, declaring, “We are going to send Ted Cruz packing.”
While Cruz’s campaign continues to downplay the Democratic surge, dismissing it as a “last ditch effort,” the passion and dedication of Allred’s supporters tell a different story. The upcoming election represents a pivotal moment for Texas, offering a chance to reshape its political landscape and reaffirm the values of justice, equality, and progress.
As Texas Democrats rally their base with renewed vigor, the “Texas Offense” initiative stands as a testament to their commitment to a brighter, more inclusive future. With community engagement and voter mobilization at its core, this campaign is poised to make history and bring about the change Texans have been waiting for.
For the latest updates on the Texas Senate race and other political developments, stay tuned to Houston Style Magazine, your trusted source for local and national news.
www.ColinAllred.com
Colin Allred –Candidate for U.S. Senate from Texas
Christian Menfee –Harris County Attorney
Rodney Ellis –Harris County Comissioner
ITexans and Xfinity Team Up for Inspiring Digital Literacy Night at Boys & Girls Club In Sunnyside
By Francis Page, Jr.
n a remarkable display of community spirit and commitment to education, the Houston Texans and Xfinity hosted a Digital Literacy Workshop for families at the Jim & Barbara Morefield Boys & Girls Club. The event, held on July 30th, aimed to empower families with essential digital literacy skills and highlight the importance of safe and effective online presence.
Event Highlights
Attendees had the privilege of hearing from Tim Jamison, a Houston Texans Legend, who passionately spoke about the significance of digital literacy and self-representation online. Emphasizing the value of education, Jamison reminded the audience that even professional athletes rely on skills learned in school to succeed both on and off the field. Adding to the informative session, Rania Mankarious from Crime Stoppers shared invaluable insights on cyber and internet safety, ensuring families are equipped to navigate the digital world securely.
Following the enlightening presentations, families had the unique opportunity to meet Tim Jamison and participate in interactive, Texans-themed games, making the evening both educational and enjoyable.
Generous Contributions
A significant highlight of the evening was Comcast – Xfinity’s generous donation of 50 laptops. Twen-
ty-five of these devices were allocated to support the Jim & Barbara Morefield Boys & Girls Club, enhancing their mobile computer lab within the Wi-Fi connected Lift Zone. The remaining 25
brand-new laptops were given directly to the families in attendance, further extending the impact of this initiative.
Continued Commitment
This year, Comcast Texas has invested an impressive $60,000 into the Boys & Girls Club, dedicated to digital skills and tech programming. This substantial contribution underscores their ongoing commitment to fostering educational growth and digital literacy within the community.
EVENT DETAILS
Location: Jim and Barbara Morefield Boys & Girls Club • 5950 Selinsky Rd. Houston, TX 77048
Time: The event took place from 5-6:30 p.m.
Embracing the Future with Digital Literacy
The collaboration between the Houston Texans and Xfinity for this Digital Literacy Night exemplifies how partnerships can drive positive change in the community. By equipping families with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the digital age, this initiative not only supports educational advancement but also fosters a safer and more informed online presence.
Stay tuned to Houston Style Magazine readers for more updates on community events and initiatives from Comcast that make a difference. Together, we can continue to empower our youth and build a brighter future.
Monty and Ramirez LLP proudly announce that Jacob Monty, a distinguished Houston immigration and employment lawyer, has been appointed to the James Beard Foundation® Board of Trustees. This prestigious honor highlights Monty’s commitment to the culinary arts and his dedication to promoting diversity and equity in the food industry.
The James Beard Foundation: A Culinary Beacon
For more than three decades, the James Beard Foundation has been the cornerstone of America’s food culture, celebrating and elevating the people who shape our culinary landscape. What began as a celebration of gastronomy has evolved into a powerful voice advocating for a sustainable and equitable food future. The Foundation’s mission, encapsulated in its mantra “Good Food for Good®,” is realized through the esteemed James Beard Awards, various industry and community-focused programs, advocacy initiatives, partnerships, and nationwide events.
Jacob Monty: A Champion for Houston’s Culinary
Scene
“I am deeply honored and look forward to serving as a trustee of the James Beard Foundation,” said Jacob Monty. “This is an excellent opportunity to sup-
port and promote the people who play a large role in making Houston the exciting, outstanding, and diverse community that it is.”
As a trustee, Monty will play a crucial role in shaping the Foundation’s future initiatives, with a special focus on highlighting Houston’s rich and diverse culinary scene. His involvement is expected to bring national attention to Houston’s vibrant food culture, boosting tourism and driving economic growth for the city’s independent restaurants. This appointment further cements Houston’s reputation as a premier culinary destination.
A Legal Luminary with a Heart for the Community
Jacob Monty, the founder and managing partner of Monty and Ramirez LLP, has been a leading figure in immigration, labor, and employment law for over two decades. His expertise is particularly recognized among employers with large Hispanic workforces, including professional baseball teams, grocery store and restaurant chains, and construction companies.
Beyond his professional achievements, Monty is a dedicated civic leader. He has held presidential and gubernatorial appointments and has taken on leadership roles in numerous community and professional organizations. His civic engagement underscores his commitment to enhancing the quality of
Houston Immigration and Employment Lawyer Jacob Monty
Joins Prestigious James Beard Foundation Board of Trustees
life in Houston and beyond.
A Bright Future for Houston’s Culinary Landscape
Jacob Monty’s appointment to the James Beard Foundation Board of Trustees is a significant milestone for Hous-
By Francis Page, Jr.
ton. It not only acknowledges his professional and civic contributions but also promises a brighter future for the city’s culinary industry. Through his leadership, Houston’s food scene will gain national recognition, fostering a robust, inclusive, and sustainable culinary community.
Houston Style Magazine readers, for more information about the James Beard Foundation and its initiatives, visit: James Beard Foundation. To Visit Monty and Ramirez, visit:
https://www.MontyRamirezLaw.com/
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WLOCAL: KAMALA HARRIS AND MELANIE MILES
- A BOND BEYOND POLITICS
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
he Kamala Harris, America's Vice President and presumptive nominee for President of the United States, visited Houston last week, her schedule was packed with significant engagements. From providing a Hurricane Beryl relief update to addressing the American Federation of Teachers, her itinerary reflected her deep commitment to public service. Yet, among these high-profile activities, a heartfelt personal visit stood out — meeting her best friend from college –where she is Godmother to her son, Justice – Melanie Miles, a proud Houston native.
Melanie Miles, a board-certified family law attorney for over 25 years, has deep roots in Houston, having graduated from Bellaire High School and South Texas College of Law. Her professional journey is impressive—she is the President of the Black Women of Greater Houston Political Action Committee (BWGH-PAC), chairs the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Civil Service Commission, and has been an entrepreneur and developer in Houston for three decades.
Their friendship, which blossomed at Howard University in Washington, DC, in 1982, has stood the test of time. “I am immensely proud of her and have been since we became best friends and so-
rority sisters at Howard. I persuaded her to join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and I was her sponsor,” Miles reminisced. Their bond was solidified through shared experiences, including running for class president—Miles for Business and Harris for Liberal Arts—and marching against apartheid in front of the South African Embassy, an event that nearly got them arrested.
Harris' rise in politics is a testament to her perseverance and vision. From serving as San Francisco's District Attorney to becoming California's Attorney
General and then a United States Senator, her journey culminated in her historic election as the first woman, African American, and South Asian Vice President of the United States. Harris' mother was of Indian descent, adding to the rich tapestry of her heritage.
Back in Houston, Harris' recent visit also highlighted her strong connections to the city's vibrant community. She attended Miles' wedding years ago and has maintained close ties with her and the city.
“My friend Kamala is going to be President
of the United States,” Miles said confidently. She believes that Harris’ candidacy represents a historic opportunity for change. Houston, a city known for its diversity and dynamism, holds a special place in this narrative. Harris’ visit to the Harris County Office of Emergency Management for an update on Hurricane Beryl's recovery and her speech at the George R. Brown Convention Center to the American Federation of Teachers underscore her commitment to addressing local and national issues.
Melanie Miles and Vice President Kamala Harris
OLOCAL : VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS RETURNS TO HOUSTON TO HONOR CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
n Thursday, August 1, Vice President Kamala Harris will make a significant return to Houston to attend the private Celebration of Life Service for the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.
This marks her third visit to Texas within the past month, underscoring her deep connection to the state and its people.
Following the heart-wrenching news of Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s passing, Vice President Harris praised her as “a tenacious advocate for justice and a tireless fighter for the people of Houston and the people of America.” Reflecting on their long-standing friendship and shared commitment to public service, Harris highlighted, “Sheila was a dear friend for many years and a fellow member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. As a stalwart member of the Congressional Black Caucus, I had the privilege of collaborating closely with her on numerous critical issues. Her leadership was nothing short of relentless. Sheila was one of our nation’s fiercest, smartest, and most strategic leaders, always striving to create meaningful progress. Conversations with her were never trite or trivial; she was perpetually championing the rights and welfare of Houston and America.”
In a week filled with impactful engagements, Vice President Harris was also present in Houston to visit the city’s Emergency Operations Center, where she received a detailed briefing on the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Hurricane Beryl. Demonstrating her commitment to education, she delivered a powerful keynote address at the American Federation of Teachers’ 88th national convention, which took place on Thursday. Additionally, earlier this month, she
captivated the audience in Dallas with her keynote speech at Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s 71st Boulé, further cementing her strong ties with Texas.
Vice President Harris’s visit to Houston is more than a ceremonial return; it is a testament to her unwavering dedication to honoring the legacy of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and her relentless advocacy for justice, equity, and the well-being of all Americans. The people of Houston, and indeed the entire nation,
can take solace in knowing that leaders like Harris continue to fight for progress and uphold the values that Congresswoman Jackson Lee so passionately represented. Houston Style Magazine is proud to cover this momentous occasion, ensuring our readers stay informed about the impactful visits and speeches of national leaders like Vice President Kamala Harris. Stay tuned for more updates on her engagements and the ongoing recovery efforts in our beloved city.
Vice President Kamala Harris & Sheila Jackson Lee
HPD Chief Satterwhite & Allison Alexander
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
Simone Biles - 1 Gold Medal
Coco Gauff & Labron James
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
Marquette Greene-Scott: Championing Change for Texas Congressional District 22
By Francis Page, Jr.
Iowa Colony Mayor Pro Tem Marquette Greene-Scott recently kicked off her “We Deserve Better” campaign to unseat Republican incumbent Troy Nehls in Texas’s Congressional District 22. With over 100 supporters, including top Fort Bend County officials like District
Attorney Brian Middleton, Sheriff Eric Fagan , and State Representative Ron Reynolds, her campaign launch at Wessendorff Park in Richmond, Texas, was met with enthusiastic support.
Marquette Greene-Scott, a practicing attorney in Texas and Louisiana, made a compelling case for her candidacy, highlighting her commitment to policy decisions and bipartisan cooperation. In her speech, she addressed critical issues such as women’s bodily autonomy, IVF, contraception, no-fault divorces, voting rights,
and healthcare access. She didn’t hold back in criticizing Nehls for opposing bipartisan bills that would benefit the district, drawing passionate chants of “ We Deserve Better” from the crowd. Her rally attracted supporters from all five counties in CD22 and advocacy groups like Moms Demand Action and the Katy Indivisible Huddle
Ericka Ann Lawson, PhD , Matagorda County Democratic Party Chair , shared her personal connection with the candidate, stating, “I’m voting for Marquette because she understands women and women’s issues. She sees me and my community and works to help make our lives better!” Brazoria County Democratic Party Chair Monica Morgan echoed this sentiment, adding, “Taxpayers deserve better than the dysfunction that has been on display in Washington. Marquette will
take care of business.” The rally concluded on a high note with Marquette introducing her campaign song, “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” by McFadden & Whitehead
As city councilwoman and mayor pro tem of Iowa Colony, Marquette has focused on infrastructure and economic growth while preserving the city’s rural charm. She emphasizes the importance of working with developers and holding them accountable, ensuring that growth aligns with the standards set by the city’s predecessors. Marquette is dedicated to making informed decisions and acting in the best interest of all Iowa Colony citizens. She values community involvement and encourages open communication with her constituents.
Born to Beatrice Greene and the late Vietnam Veteran Joseph Greene in Opelousas, Louisiana, Marquette is the
youngest of five children. She is the proud mother of a 23-year-old daughter, Kaitlyn, and recently married Lisco Scott. A graduate of Southern University and the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University, Marquette is a former teacher and an active attorney. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., reflecting her commitment to service. Marquette Greene-Scott is eager to bring the lessons she has learned as a mom, lawyer, city council member, and Mayor Pro Tem to her role as a representative for Texas’s 22nd congressional district
Houston Style Magazine readers can learn more about Marquette GreeneScott at marquettegreenescott.com and follow her on social media @mgreenescott to see highlights from her campaign and rally.
Marquette Greene-Scott
Photos By Fiona Kitchen Photography
President - Judson & Cora Robinson
Photos By Anita Bates for HAUL Photography
SVP HAUL - Eric Goodie
Kandi Burruss
Raise your hand if you've ever been on a diet. Go ahead, I am raising my hand with you. The battle of the bulge drives people to the gym in January, leads them to try all kinds of shakes, and latch onto every new diet or "wonder drug," regardless of whether it's actually meant for weight loss.
Enter Ozempic! Admit it, you’ve probably found yourself singing the catchy jingle every time the commercial came on. Originally sweeping the market in 2017 as an antidiabetic medication to treat type 2 diabetes, Ozempic soon became known for its unexpected side effect: weight loss.
INSIGHTS FROM KANDI BURRUSS AND LIL REL HOWERY
By Jo-Carolyn Goode for www.StyleMagazine.com
Four years after its approval for medical use in the U.S. (not for weight loss), it became the 90th most prescribed drug. Suddenly, every celebrity, socialite, and anyone with some money was trying to get their hands on a bottle.
Ozempic quickly overshadowed traditional methods of weight loss such
and cons. Recently, two celebrities, Kandi Burruss and Lil Rel Howery, have spoken out about their experiences—or lack thereof—with the drug.
Kandi Burruss, a master of many talents—singing, producing, writing, managing, and more—shared her story in an interview with Page Six. Burruss heard all the hype about Ozempic’s weight-loss effects but was shocked when it didn’t work for her.
“It didn’t curb my appetite. I know some people are like, ‘Oh, I can’t eat.’ Not me! I was eating appetizers, a regular meal, and dessert, OK? It didn’t stop anything for me.”
as exercising, eating balanced meals, and adopting a healthier lifestyle. Numerous celebrities claimed the "wonder drug" was the reason behind their dramatic weight loss. As Hollywood goes, so does the world, and Ozempic became a popular and seemingly easy way to shed pounds.
However, Ozempic has its pros
Instead of helping her, it hurt her, particularly her mental health. Watching Ozempic work for others but not for her led to feelings of depression and selfdoubt. Eventually, Burruss returned to the tried and true methods of working out, eating right, and taking supplements. Her goal is to get to 130-something pounds, but she reminds everyone that you look great at any size. Read More At:
CLOCAL: HOUSTON STYLE MAGAZINE PRESENTS - THE 3RD ANNUAL HOUSTON
THEATER WEEK – A WEEK OF ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE AND UNMATCHED DEALS!
alling performing arts aficionados and those curious about the magic of live theater! Get ready for an exceptional week of unrivaled access to Houston's vibrant performing arts scene with the third annual Houston Theater Week, taking place from August 12-18, 2024.
Exclusive Deals to Ignite Your Passion for the Arts
For one week only, whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned patron, seize the opportunity to enjoy exclusive Buy One, Get One FREE ticket deals. This year's event, championed by Houston First Corporation, brings together 22 professional performing arts groups, offering over 250 performances. From enchanting musicals to thought-provoking plays, Houston Theater Week is your gateway to an array of diverse and captivating live shows.
Supporting Houston's Artistic Community
Houston Theater Week was born out of a desire to support the city's theaters, performing artists, and behind-thescenes professionals in the wake of the pandemic. Michael Heckman, President & CEO of Houston First Corporation, shares, "What began as a post-pandemic support initiative has blossomed into an annual
By Francis Page, Jr. for
collective effort. Since its inception, it has generated more than $1.5 million in ticket sales revenue, benefiting our world-class performing arts organizations and the multitude of professionals within the creative industry."
Hillary Hart of Theater District Houston adds, "This annual event not only boosts ticket sales revenue, ensuring artists and creative professionals remain employed, but also strengthens our theater scene and introduces new audiences to a range of cultural performances at a discounted rate. We commend Houston First
CLOSED VEHICLE
for leading this initiative and encourage everyone to explore something new this year."
A Celebration of Artistic Diversity
Whether it's your first time or you're a regular theater-goer, Houston Theater Week offers the perfect occasion to enjoy affordable access to high-quality live performances. The 2024-2025 season promises something for everyone, from groundbreaking world premieres to beloved holiday classics. Discover the magic, adventure, and talent that make Hous-
ton's performing arts scene one of the city's greatest assets.
Michael Heckman emphasizes, "A dynamic performing arts community is a cornerstone of Houston's cultural appeal and a key selling point for our destination. As performing arts organizations in other parts of the country struggle, Houston's thriving industry remains vital to our economy. We expect Theater Week to help sustain this vibrancy.
Participating Organizations
This year's lineup of participating organizations is nothing short of spectacular:
- 4th Wall Theatre
- Alley Theatre
- Apollo Chamber Players
- Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre
- Chamber Music Houston
- DACAMERA
- Dirt Dogs Theatre Co.
- Echo Orchestra
- Houston Ballet
- Houston Grand Opera
Kid’s Café Summer Meal Program
Campus Chronicles
Congratulations to Austin High School teacher Isabel FloresSchrage, who has been recognized as one of 24 distinguished educators selected nationwide to participate in the prestigious Folger Shakespeare Company's 18th Teaching Shakespeare Institute in Washington, D.C. this month. This honor reflects Mrs. Flores-Schrage's exceptional dedication to enriching her students' educational experience through innovative teaching methods and a deep passion for Shakespearean literature.
Mrs. Flores-Schrage's participation in this esteemed program will not only enhance her own professional development but also bring valuable insights and techniques back to her classroom, benefiting the entire Austin High School commu-
Aldine Independent School District is excited to announce that all district students will receive free breakfast and lunch for the 20242025 school year. This initiative is funded through the USDA’s Community Eligibil-
Channelview Independent School District extends its heartfelt gratitude to LyondellBasell for their generous donation of 1,880 books to the Channelview ISD Literacy Bus. This significant contribution is instrumental in fostering a love of reading and learning
Pasadena Independent School District proudly congratulates Taylor Davis, the music teacher at Turner Elementary, for receiving the prestigious “Young Director of Distinction” award at
nity. The Fort Bend Independent School District (#FBISD) takes immense pride in her achievements and commitment to academic excellence.
For more information about Mrs. Flores-Schrage's experience with the 2024 Teaching Shakespeare Institute, visit the Fort Bend ISD website at https://www. fortbendisd.com/.
ity Provision (CEP), part of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, allowing all enrolled Aldine ISD students to eat at no charge.
Parents do not need to fill out meal applications for their students to qualify. Each student will have a child nutrition account linked to their district student ID number, ensuring secure and accurate tracking of meals and other purchases. Students in grades 1 through 12 can also purchase a la carte items like chips, cookies, or drinks, which must be paid for at the time of purchase.
among our students. By enhancing our literacy resources, LyondellBasell is playing a crucial role in building a brighter future for our community, one page at a time. The Literacy Bus initiative aims to make quality books accessible to all students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop strong reading skills and a lifelong passion for learning.
the 2024 Texas Choral Directors Association (TCDA) Annual Summer Convention. This esteemed recognition highlights Taylor Davis's exceptional contributions to music education and her dedication to nurturing the musical talents of her students. Pasadena ISD celebrates her remarkable achievement and is honored to have such a distinguished educator within its community. Taylor’s commitment to excellence in music education continues to inspire both her students and colleagues alike.
LOCAL: Celebrating Leadership: Dr. Shawn E. Simmons Takes Helm as South-Central Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
By Jo-Carolyn Goode for www.StyleMagazine.com
Inprepare to cheer as one of our own, Dr. Shawn E. Simmons, embarks on an inspiring new journey of leadership. In a momentous ceremony before more than 20,000 sorority members and guests, Dr. Simmons was installed as the South-Central Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, representing Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas. Her dedication to the nation’s first Black Greek-lettered sorority brings a renewed commitment to service and sisterhood to
the South-Central Region.
Service has always been the cornerstone of Dr. Simmons' life. Inspired by her aunt and impactful teachers who were members of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Simmons followed in their esteemed footsteps. As an undergraduate at the University of Oklahoma, she recognized the leadership and achievement of the Kappa Psi chapter and joined in the spring of 1990.
“They stood on business and community service, so for me it was about that extension of service and continuing the legacy in the family,” reflected Simmons. Simmons’ leadership blossomed within the sorority, becoming a 1991 Leadership Fellow, a program designed to cultivate leadership skills both professionally and holding several leadership positions. These skills seamlessly transitioned into her graduate chapter involvement in Xi Alpha Omega where she held several positions including president.
“In grad chapter, I became more efficient, touched more lives, and saw my leadership aspirations grow,” Simmons explains. “I believe in growing where you are planted, leading where you are, and excelling at each level to set the stage for future opportunities.”
Now, as the Regional Director for
the second-largest region of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Simmons aims to foster collaborative leadership. She envisions a platform where members' voices are heard, their passions fuel service opportunities, and every member has her listening ear.
Service remains her administration’s hallmark with the tagline “Keeping It R.E.A.L.” – Responsive, Empowering, Authentic, and Lifting. “Keeping It Real means being genuine. We have real service to provide, real issues to address, and real relationships to build. It’s about being grounded and working together to find solutions,” she emphasizes.
On a local level, Simmons plans to implement systems that strengthen chapters and recognize members. By sharing best practices, no member will feel overwhelmed by duties. She will hold chapter forums to promote collaborative centers of excellence and will emphasize the sisterly spirit by assembling counselors and coaches for unbiased issue resolution. Additionally, her "What’s Up? My Pinkie Promise" program will support undergraduate members, addressing their concerns, coaching them for success, and providing leadership opportunities at the regional level.
Professionally, Simmons is a Global Supplier Diversity & Sustainable
Procurement Manager for ExxonMobil. Her leadership extends globally, having led teams across Africa, Asia Pacific, Australia, and Europe. Her expertise once even took her to set up residence in Lagos, Nigeria.
A proud graduate of Booker T. Washington’s High School for the Engineering Professions, Simmons holds a bachelor’s in petroleum engineering from the University of Oklahoma, a master’s in environmental engineering from Rice University, and a PhD in environmental toxicology from Texas Southern University. Her extensive volunteer work and numerous awards underscore her commitment to service.
Supported by her loving husband of 29 years, Philip, and their two children, Jonathan and Jacquelyn (an AKA member herself), Simmons' journey is also a testament to the strength and encouragement from her family, friends, and mentors.
“I am just really excited,” Simmons shares with a bright smile. “Excited for new possibilities, for my chapter, and for the region. I’m eager to bring innovative ideas to life.”
GREAT EDUCAT RS THE HEART OF LEARNING STARTS WITH
Nominate a deserving teacher, principal, counselor, early childhood learning center, school board or school district.
Created in 2002, the H‑E‑B Excellence in Education Awards was designed to honor and thank outstanding public school professionals. Through this program, H‑E‑B awards over $700,000 annually to deserving educators who go the extra mile to serve their students and communities.
To submit a nomination or application, go to heb.com/nominate.
