Get to Know…Kris Johnson and Nancy Gopez with Cattle Baron’s Ball

Please explain the Cattle Baron’s Ball mission and how you got involved with the organization.

In conjunction with the American Cancer Society, our mission is to free the world from cancer. Until we do, we will be funding and conducting research, sharing expert information, supporting patients, and spreading the word about prevention.

Kris Johnson: I got involved because of the mission, and I loved the idea of working together with this group of women to raise funds for cancer research.

Nancy Gopez: I got involved through friends who were on the committee. They told me about the mission, how they enjoyed being on the committee, and the camaraderie shared while fundraising.

Tell us a little about yourselves and your background.

KJ: After growing up in Minnesota and living in Alaska, I moved to Dallas and have been here for 25 years. I have worked for Mary Kay for 24 years, and I sit on the Boards of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation, the Mary Kay Family Foundation and Cancer Care.

NG: I grew up in Virginia and came here for college. After graduating with a degree in marketing and accounting, I started working for Brinker, where I still work. Along the way, I got involved in fundraising and volunteering for the community, which has been extremely rewarding. I met some of my closest friends through committees and boards for non-profits.

My family is still on the East Coast. We are close and have a lot of fun when we spend time together at least once or twice a year. We all enjoy having a good laugh. A great sense of humor is important to us!

What makes Cattle Baron’s Ball so special and impactful to the Dallas community?

Each year, our 100-member committee raises millions of dollars for cancer research. We have grown to be the largest single-night fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Since 1974, we have funded numerous grants with the $89 million raised. In conjunction with ACS, we have had revolutionary success in cancer research through fields such as immunotherapy and breast cancer. Our wish is to find cures for all cancers in our lifetime.

What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Cattle Baron’s Ball organization?

KJ: I have enjoyed meeting new people and building lasting relationships while working together on the different committees. I have especially enjoyed organizing the Research Symposium, as cancer research is very important to me.

NG: I love the friendships I have made through CBB. I have also been on the production committee for the last several years. It has been rewarding working with our long-time, loyal vendors, the Ball Chairs, various CBB committees and the production committee to help organize this annual Ball.

How does support from community partners like Highland Park Village help Cattle Baron’s Ball have a greater impact?

Sponsorships such as Highland Park Village help us raise significant funds for Cattle Baron’s Ball. We are grateful HP Village is sponsoring our wristbands again this year. In addition, several auction items have been generously donated from stores in the Village. Our auction also raises a lot of money for CBB.

What are some ways people in North Texas can get involved with the Cattle Baron’s Ball?

We have many opportunities to support Cattle Baron’s Ball! A supporter can purchase a table for the Ball on Saturday, September 17, purchase raffle tickets, or donate in someone’s name for our Honor Wall that will be displayed at the Ball. We will also have a Paddle Raise during our Live Auction. One can donate in advance to that, which will go towards the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Hope Lodge. And lastly, one can bid on our Big Board packages and Silent Auction Items, which are already live! Just register, and you can bid whether you are attending or not. Text “CBB2022” to 76278 to register and bid.

Lastly, where would we most likely find you in Highland Park Village?

KJ: You will find me somewhere between Hermès and The Conservatory.

NG: You will most likely find me at Park House meeting or dining with friends, at happy hour, or attending one of their fun events and programs.

Highland Park Village is proud to spotlight our very own dynamic personalities and community partners in the Village Voices series. Get to know our past features.