MARJON ZABIHI HENDERSON & LORA FARRIS, CATTLE BARON’S BALL CHAIRS
(PHOTO CREDIT: TAMYTHA CAMERON)
Please explain the Cattle Baron’s Ball mission and how you got involved with the organization.
Cattle Baron’s Ball is the world’s largest single-night fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. This year, the event will raise over $100 million since its inception 51 years ago. All money raised funds cancer research, most of which is conducted here in DFW.
Lora Farris: My mother was a member of Cattle Baron’s Ball! I remember volunteering with her when I was young and helping stuff favor bags. My mom has always instilled in me the value of volunteering. Unfortunately, I have close friends and co-workers impacted by cancer, so ACS is a cause I’ve always been passionate about supporting.
Marjon Zabihi Henderson: I remember first attending Cattle Baron’s Ball 18 years ago with Neiman Marcus. Olivia Kearney was the Ball Chair and I was blown away by the event and the mission to raise funds for cancer research. Now, I have been a member for ten years and am honored to chair alongside Lora.
Tell us a little about yourselves and your background.
LF: I was born and raised in Dallas. I work for the Multiplier Agency, where I plan events, execute sports hospitality and manage athlete charities. I have been involved with Cattle Baron’s Ball for nine years, serving in numerous roles within the auction and underwriting teams.
MZH: I grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. You can see some of the beautiful sunsets I grew up with in our inspiration for the ball design. I moved to Dallas for an internship with Neiman Marcus, and 20 years later, I am now the Vice President of Brand Experience. When I’m not working or volunteering in the community, I spend time with my husband and two small children who attend school at Bradfield next door to Highland Park Village.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Cattle Baron’s Ball organization?
MZH: I love that there is nothing that can’t be done when you put 100 women together! This group has raised critical dollars, and one day, we will find a cure for cancer thanks to organizations like Cattle Baron’s Ball.
How does support from community partners like Highland Park Village help Cattle Baron’s Ball have a greater impact?
LF: Cattle Baron’s Ball relies solely on the generosity of our community. Support comes through sponsorships, table sales, and items for our auction, and the DFW community always steps up in a big way. Highland Park Village is a valued, long-term partner as our wristband sponsor, and we are so grateful! They also rally their stores and restaurants to donate to our silent auction and big board. Auction bidding will start September 21.
What are some ways people in North Texas can get involved with the Cattle Baron’s Ball?
MZH: Attend the ball is the best way to start! It’s a night like no other, filled with Texas magic. If you can’t attend, supporting the massive silent auction and bidding on everything from handbags and jewelry to art and dining experiences is a great way to support.
Lastly, where would we most likely find you in Highland Park Village?
LF: You can usually find me at Mi Cocina at the Monkey Bar. I visit Highland Park Village regularly, especially during the holidays to admire the lights. Dallas is so lucky to have such an iconic shopping center. Every store is fabulous!
MZH: Since I am walkable to Highland Park Village, we love mornings at Sadelle’s, lunches at The Honor Bar and cocktails at Park House. We have a family tradition on Tuesday, which is dinner at Park House with our children. They love the photo booth!
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.