The 12th Annual Destiny Awards Luncheon, benefiting St. Philip’s School and Community Center, will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 8 at the Belo Mansion in downtown Dallas. One of the most decorated female athletes of all time, Olympian Jackie Joyner Kersee, will serve as the keynote speaker for this inspiring event that raises funds for the many quality educational and social service programs provided by St. Philip’s.
“St. Philip’s students lead by example,” explains Kersee, who has been a friend of the South Dallas organization for over a decade. “I have always been impressed with the school ministry and their commitment to young people and our future leaders.”
At the luncheon, the Destiny Awards will be presented to those who have demonstrated exceptional work toward bridging relationships between the many diverse communities within DFW. The Award for Organization will be presented to Fort Worth Avenue Development Group for their commitment to improving the West Commerce/Fort Worth Avenue corridor and maintaining a high quality of life for the area’s diverse residential neighborhoods and businesses.
The Destiny Award for Corporation will be presented to Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture for its numerous and effective integrated programs, including the Teachers Academy that for nearly thirty years has brought together teachers of all ethnicities and backgrounds for common study of diverse texts.
Barbara L. Watkins will receive the Destiny Award for Individual Leadership for tirelessly championing the rights for affordable and quality health care for all. She has positively impacted the lives of many in her role as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs/Patient Services for Parkland Hospital and through her involvement with local organizations such as the Vogel Alcove, Girls Inc. and The Senior Source.
Two individuals will be awarded the Unsung Hero Award – Rev. S.M. Wright, II and Rev. Calvin Wright. Through their leadership of the People Missionary Baptist Church in South Dallas, the Wrights have continued a legacy of bridge building between communities that began with their father, S.M. Wright, Sr., over fifty years ago.
St. Philip’s School and Community Center is an independent elementary school in southern Dallas serving over 250 students, ages two years through sixth grade and a dynamic community center, providing numerous athletic, educational and social services to over 1,500 children, youth, and adults annually. In addition to presentations by St. Philip’s alumni and students, Mrs. Kersee will share her inspiring story at the luncheon. “The glory of sport comes from dedication, determination, and desire,” she says. “Achieving success has less to do with wins and losses than it does with knowing that there was nothing more you could have done to reach your ultimate goal.”
For more information or to make a contribution toward this worthy cause, please contact St. Philip’s Advancement Office at 214-421-5221 or devoffice@stphilips.com.
