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Explain La Fiesta de las Seis Banderas’ mission and how you got involved with the organization.
Our founding mission was to rescue a historic community home from demolition. This 40th anniversary year, La Fiesta continues as a festival that meets community needs by raising important funds for carefully vetted beneficiaries and projects. We celebrate our rich cultural heritage and honor the six flags that have flown over the great state of Texas.
I got involved initially because wonderful friends and neighbors asked me to join and serve. I began by chairing Fiesta Bachendorf’s, another lovely community partner, and moved on to chair the Preview Luncheon, the Presentation Gala, and Corporate Underwriting before agreeing to serve alongside Rachel Stienke this year as La Fiesta Chairs.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I grew up in East Texas and came to Dallas to attend Southern Methodist University, where I joined Kappa Kappa Gamma, danced on the Pom Squad, and loved every minute on and off campus in this community. Michael and I met and married in Dallas, lived and worked in NYC, then settled in the Park Cities almost 20 years ago. Teaching and serving wherever God calls me, from ballet to Bible study to yoga, has characterized life here, and my two amazing daughters inspire me to give my best in everything. My precious parents set an example of giving and living generously for others, and my favorite places to live that out have been Highland Park United Methodist Church, Armstrong Elementary School, Crystal Charity Ball, and of course, La Fiesta. I work full-time to support an incredible team of mental health care providers at The Center Counseling.
What makes La Fiesta so special and impactful to the Dallas community?
Six duchesses were presented at the first La Fiesta gala, which took place in Highland Park Village in 1985. Today, we have 41 duchesses and 40 escorts, and our organization continues to impact the community by awarding grants to our teachers, schools, libraries, and community programs. Applications are submitted annually.
What do you enjoy the most about being a part of the La Fiesta organization?
I love getting to know all the volunteers, committee chairs, donors, and presentation families. I also find deep satisfaction in using my time and skill set to impact my community positively. We have so many smart, capable, talented women involved, and it’s fun to build upon past successes and make strategic changes for the organization’s future.
How does support from community partners like Highland Park Village help La Fiesta have a greater impact?
From the very first La Fiesta Presentation Gala held in a tent in Highland Park Village in 1985 to the many years as Presenting Sponsor for our Preview Luncheon, Highland Park Village is a loyal and beloved community partner! We could not meet the financial commitment to our beneficiaries nor honor our Duchess and Escort families without the generous outpouring of community support we are so blessed to receive. I think La Fiesta and Highland Park Village are both part of the history and fabric of our community.
What are some ways people in North Texas can get involved with La Fiesta?
Become a member of the Guild, volunteer on a committee, or serve as a committee chair. Tax-deductible tributes can be made online on our website (www.lafiestaparkcities.com) in honor of a duchess, escort, or organization leader, as well as financial gifts for individual or corporate underwriting and sponsorships for our events.
Where would we most likely find you in Highland Park Village?
I’m an equal opportunity fan and will be in whichever store hosts a kickoff, patron party, or check-in for an organization or cause I love. My favorite shopping and chatting spot is with precious Melinda Rathke at Lela Rose. Connecting with a friend or enjoying my family at Mi Cocina, Bird Bakery, Sadelle’s, Park House, or The Conservatory Teak Tearoom are always my favorites, as well.
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.
