Get to Know…Lisa Loy Laughlin with LLS

Explain the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission and how you got involved with the organization.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Mission is to cure Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s Disease and Myeloma and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds research to advance lifesaving treatments, drives advocacy for policies that protect patient access to treatment, and provides patients and families with hope, guidance, education, and support.

I lost my father to cancer several years ago. In his honor, I accepted the privilege of chairing this luncheon. It has been a blessing to work with this dedicated committee and incredible staff to help raise much needed funds in support of this critical mission.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

Dallas is my hometown, and I was blessed to be raised in University Park, graduating from Highland Park High School. My college degree is in music education from Southern Methodist University, and I taught for many years in our district, where I am still substitute teaching today. My husband, Kendall, and I raised three sons. After they graduated, I began a 20-year career in the nonprofit sector. We are blessed with two daughters-in-law and grandchildren nearby and in San Diego. We enjoy recreation together, such as biking, sailing and children’s sporting events.

What makes LLS so special and impactful to the Dallas community?

LLS is the largest cancer research agency specifically focused on finding cures and better treatments for blood cancer patients. The Dallas community is paramount in supporting nonprofits not only with their time but with their money and resources. We couldn’t put on these amazing campaigns without the help of our wonderful Dallas friends.

What do you enjoy the most about being a part of the LLS organization?

The transformational impact of LLS is evidenced in our special award recipients today. Each of them are our “Hometown Heroes!” It has been a huge honor to work with our amazing committee to plan this event to recognize the bravery, perseverance, dignity and grace displayed in each of their journeys.

How does support from community partners like Highland Park Village help LLS have a greater impact?

We could not do the amazing work behind St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon and Fashion Show without the support of Highland Park Village. Not only are they the fashion sponsor, but they have generously hosted our Kickoff and Patron Parties. Not to mention this year’s ICON Award recipient is Lela Rose, a darling Dallas native who has her own store (one of my personal favorites!) in Highland Park Village.

What are some ways people in North Texas can get involved with LLS?

LLS couldn’t do its excellent work without volunteers. There are numerous events and campaigns that everyone in the DFW area can be a part of. The St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon and Fashion Show is coming up on May 16th at the Meyerson Symphony Center. Tickets and tables are still available!

Where would we most likely find you in Highland Park Village?

There is nowhere else like The Village. We used to walk and ride our bikes up here during our youth. Now, you can still find me “pedaling through” and stopping in Bistro 31 for a latte or dinner at Café Pacific with my husband. St. Michael’s Woman’s Exchange is my go-to for specialty items, and I love that all of their profits go back directly to the nonprofit community! A few of my favorite fashion stores include Lela Rose, Hermès and La Vie Style House, from which my son and his wife gave me a beautiful pink dress on a recent milestone birthday.

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.