Issuu

infinitieplus

SEPTEMBER 2026

VOL. 16 NO. 9 BUSINESS MAGAZINE

“OZEMPIC FACE”

WELLNESS What does it Really mean

Reality of GLP-1

Weight-loss drugs LOBO PRIDE AND RESOLVE

Longview ISD

Ignites school year

Shelly Smith Driven by purpose, anchored by faith

TBT names Esteemed Board

Support the needy Not the scammers

Inspiration I shot myself

Cable Broadband Celebrates 25 years

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Money Matters When donating, support those in need, not a scammer By BCP STAFF

t seems like a major weather emergency or natural disaster happens somewhere in the world every day. To help people affected by disasters like hurricanes, recent flooding in Nepal and Tibet, or recent earthquakes in Venezuela, Japan, and Colombia, you might want to donate money. Scammers know that and hope to steal money intended for disaster relief. Here’s what to know. To take advantage of your generosity, scammers might create fake charities that seem official. They claim to help people affected by weather emergencies or natural disasters. They might also impersonate well-known charity organizations, hoping the familiar name will draw your donation. Either way, if you donate to these fakes, your money goes to the scammer, not the people in need. So how can you support impacted people without accidentally paying a scammer? Before you donate:

È Do some research. Search online for the cause you care about using terms like “hurricane relief” or “wildfire recovery.” If you get a request to donate to a cause on social media, research that, too. Don’t assume it’s legitimate because a friend posted it.

overnight without a real way to help those in need. Also, find out exactly how much of your donation goes directly to the people the charity says it helps.

È Confirm the number. If someone asks you to donate by text, check the charity’s website first. Confirm you have the right number.

È Don’t donate to anyone who says you can only pay by cash, gift card, wiring money, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate charities will accept donations in many different ways. Learn more about donating safely at ftc.gov/charity. And if you spot a charity imposter, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Who needs Treasury Management? If you own your own business, the answer is you. At Austin Bank, our Treasury Management services make the process of managing your money faster, easier, and more secure. 65% of businesses are targets of fraud every year, and 51% of victims never recover the funds lost. Minimize your risk and maximize your efficiency with Treasury Management services.

È Look charities up on Charity Watch or Give.org. See if it’s an established organization, not one that showed up

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Editor's Note

GREETINGS TOP TALK Dear Readers! As the back-to-school season begins, we welcome this fresh chapter with gratitude, renewed hope, and anticipation for the cooler days ahead. This month’s edition brings together stories designed to inform, encourage, and inspire— from education, business, health, and wealth to mental, spiritual, and overall wellness. Within these pages, we hope you find insight to guide you, encouragement to uplift you, and moments of joy that stay with you long after you finish reading. Karen Partee, Abigail Duty, and Thank you for being Victoria Flanagan. part of our community and See pg.16 for continuing to support this journey of learning, connection, and growth. By God’s grace, we look Caroline Hines and forward to meeting you again Jennifer Hines. See pg.16 in September with more stories to serve, inspire, and connect us all.

Table of Contents The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One… Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PhD Chief Public Relations/Mkt. Officer Paula Jimenez Staff Writer Peace Floris Contributing Writers Glenn Miller Mechele Agbayani Mills Dr. Michael Guido Scotts Roberts Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs

OUR MISSION

To enrich the local-global community with the “just in time knowledge,” to assure future successes

OUR VISION

To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities. Submission Deadline: The first of every month prior to month of issue. infinitieplus magazine is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes since the publishing of this issue. At the time of publication, to the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate though not guaranteed. The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine is copyrighted 2026. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus magazine reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus magazine or its advertisers.

www.infinitieplusmag.com

Joycelyne Fadojutimi, Ph.D.

Gregg County call Joycelyne @ 903.918.7706 Smith County call Paula @ 903.431.7927

“Double Deuce.”

VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 09

LT Class 22 - The Best Class Ever.

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19 CEO Casey and Renee Robertson

In Every Issue

Trinitee Carter and Tedra Parker

Aaron and Angelica Aguilar

Spotlight

Cover Story Editor's Page Business and Finance Money Matters Education Community Connections Health and Wellness Women Today Women Wellness Inspiration Longview ISD Sup. Dr. Marla Sheppard with Longview High Students selected for Texas Bank and Trust esteemed Student Board.

About the Covers Read about Shelley Smith and her life’s philosophy. “Commitment to your marriage, commitment to your word, commitment to providing for your family, and basically being committed to whatever you say you will do," she says. Then enters Georgeanna Jones, the longest femaleserving principal at Tyler ISD in Tyler, Texas, on the cover of Women Today. Read about her mission and passion for young students. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine | https://x.com/infinitieplus | SEPTEMBER 2026 America@250

Cover Story

DRIVEN BY PURPOSE, ANCHORED BY FAITH Inside Shelly Smith’s Mission to Transform East Texas Families Story by J O Y C E L Y N E F A D O J U T I M I | W W W. I N F I N I T I E P L U S M A G .C O M

or Shelly Smith, the Executive Director for Buckner Children and Family Services of East Texas, leadership is not just a professional title. It is a lifelong promise. It is an approach to life anchored by a single, powerful word: commitment. "Commitment to your marriage, commitment to your word, commitment to providing for your

family, and basically being committed to whatever you say you will do," Shelly says, reflecting on the foundational values passed down by her parents. Her mother and father had been married for over 50 years when her mother passed away. Through decades of life's trials and tribulations, they cared for each other tenderly

and lovingly through latelife health challenges. "I owe much of who I am to them," Shelly notes. "They modeled perseverance, a strong work ethic, honesty, and dedication." These values- honesty, integrity, determination, and what Shelly proudly calls "true conviction" form the core of her identity. While her family

initially introduced her to church at a young age, her active, personal faith was truly ignited by family friends who took her to Sunday services and encouraged her to participate. Though she drifted away from regular attendance as a young adult, the birth of her own children drew her back. Contd. on Page 8

Shelly Smith IN IS STA SU N E! T

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Cover Story

Radical Adaptability in Child Welfare . "I knew I wanted them to have that foundation," she explains. Today, that faith serves as the unchanging cornerstone of her life. Alongside her husband, EJ, to whom she has been married for 28 years, Shelly has raised three boys and is now eagerly preparing to welcome a daughter-in-law into their tight-knit family next year. "Our programs provide families with resources that transform their lives and lead to generational outcomes." Shelley Smith and her family

The Smiths and their lifelong friends the Wingos

From Campuses to Community Impact Shelly’s professional journey began with a focus on criminal justice, earning a Bachelor of Science with a minor in Business from the University of North Texas. She chose the university partly because it was familiar—having attended summer camps there as a teenager—and partly because she wanted the growth experience of "going away" to school while remaining a manageable three hours from home. Later, while working at Gregg County Juvenile Probation, Shelly realized she needed a graduate degree to advance. Demonstrating her characteristic determination, she enrolled in the Human

Resource Development Master’s program at the University of Texas at Tyler, becoming a member of one of the very first cohorts at the brand-new Longview campus. Her career has always been driven by a simple, joyful pursuit: making a tangible difference in the lives of children. Seven years ago, while serving successfully as the Executive Director of CASA, Shelly wasn't actively looking for a career change. Then, a single, unexpected text message about an open position at Buckner Children and Family Services altered her life's trajectory. Recognizing it as a door opened directly by God, she stepped into the role.

Leadership Team

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At Buckner, Shelly oversees two campus locations dedicated to serving and empowering vulnerable children and families across East Texas. The organization offers an array of vital community resources, including adult sustainability programming, foster care and adoption services, fatherhood education, family coaching, and empowerment classes. In child welfare, Shelly quickly learned there is no such thing as a typical day. Her role demands radical adaptability. On any given morning, she might be found in a boardroom planning the annual community shoe

drive; by afternoon, she could be resolving an unexpected on-campus water leak or hosting a major community engagement event. "Our work is purpose-driven and business-minded," Shelly says. "I focus heavily on stewarding resources well, informing community collaborators about our programs, and ensuring we meet the needs of our community through informed programming." What she loves most is watching the ministry's core values—faith, integrity, respect, service, and teamwork— manifest in real-world victories. For Shelly, nothing compares to the profound joy of watching a child find a forever home through foster care, or witnessing a single mother proudly graduate from college, leaving the program completely selfsufficient and financially sustainable. Her advice to anyone aspiring to follow in her footsteps is straightforward: "You must be passiondriven to work in social services, especially in a ministry environment, but it is incredibly rewarding work."

Shelly Smith and Dior Burns at a Dallas Conference

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Contd. on Page 10

Cover Story

A Legacy of Local Service Shelly’s commitment to service does not stop when she leaves the Buckner campus. She is a tireless champion for local civic growth, currently serving in the Zonta Club of Longview and as an active member of White Oak Community Church. Her historical footprint in the community is vast, spanning a decade on the White Oak Education Foundation Board of Directors (where she served as President, Vice President, and Secretary), acting as Event Chair for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, and serving on the boards of Keep Longview Beautiful and CASA. Leadership Team

Shelley Smith with her tribe: Kelli, Krystal and Amy.

From leading as a White Oak Band Booster officer to serving as a training coordinator for Boy Scout Troop 618, Shelly has consistently poured her time into enriching the lives of local youth. When she finally steps away from her busy schedule, Shelly fiercely protects her time with her "tribe"—the close-knit family and friends who keep her laughing. Whether they are heading to the movie

theater, hunting, fishing, or enjoying the Texas outdoors, quality time with loved ones is her ultimate escape. And if those gatherings happen to feature a spread of Mexican food, all the better. "Chips and queso make everything better!" she laughs. Through faith, dedication, and an unbreakable sense of commitment, Shelly Smith continues to prove that looking after the community's families isn't just her job—it is her calling.

Shelly Smith

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Cover Story Education

Lobo Pride And Resolve Longview ISD ignites the 2026-27 school year Story by J O Y C E L Y N E F A D O J U T I M I | Photos by M I C H A E L C A V A Z O S P H O T O G R A P H Y

A Stadium-Sized Welcome Long before the opening remarks, the atmosphere hummed with the anticipation of a Friday night football game. Middle school cheer teams formed a vibrant gauntlet to welcome arriving staff, steering them toward a pre-party packed with local coffee, fresh lemonade, photo booths, and a bustling vendor fair. Dozens of local

businesses, colleges, nonprofits, and restaurants lined the concourse, offering immediate proof of the powerful partnership between the city of Longview and its schools. Inside the arena, the volume soared. The legendary Big Green Marching Machine provided a thumping soundtrack, accompanied by synchronized, high-energy performances from the Lobo Cheer squad, the Viewettes, and the Majorettes. Contd. on Page 14

Congressman Nathaniel Moran and Dr. Marla Sheppard at LISD Convocation

he energy inside Lobo Coliseum on Friday morning didn't just feel like a kickoff; it felt like a stadiumsized movement. Longview ISD officially launched the 2026-27 school year with its annual Staff Convocation, transforming the arena into a high-octane celebration of unity, achievement, and deeprooted community pride.

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Education

Celebrating Excellence and Camaraderie

“From“From the classroom tothe the cafeteria, the classroom to cafeteria, every singleemployee employee plays an indispensable every single plays an role in shaping our student success.” indispensable role in shaping our student success.”

But the morning was about more than school spirit; it was a deeply meaningful celebration of the educators who drive the district’s success. New hires and Teacher Incentive Allotment honorees were treated to rockstar welcomes, complete with enthusiastic rally lines and highspeed banner runs. The district also paused to shine a spotlight on its Teachers of the Year and exemplary staff members, honoring their dedication to academic excellence, measurable improvement, and tireless service. That sense of camaraderie quickly translated into friendly rivalry. Campus teams went head-to-head in a series of lively pep-rally games, all chasing the ultimate prize: the coveted Spirit Stick. Ware Elementary took the floor determined to protect their title as reigning champions, sparking roaring sections of cheers and campus pride across the coliseum.

“We see the incredible strength of this district “We see the incredible strength of this district when when look across these packed we look we across these packed stands. Everystands. individual in this room is a vital piece of the puzzle, wepiece believe Every individual in this room is aand vital wholeheartedly in your ability to build a world-class of the puzzle, and we learning environment thisbelieve year.” wholeheartedly in—your ability to buildSuperintendent a world-class learning Dr. Marla Sheppard, environment this year.”

— Dr. Marla Sheppard, Superintendent

— Michael Tubb, Board President

A Shared Mission for Student Success

Amid the noise and fun, the district’s heart for service took center stage. Staff rallied heavily behind the "Go With The Flow" community initiative, donating an influx of feminine hygiene products that will be used to distribute 800 critical classroom kits across campuses this year.

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As the games subsided, the district’s leadership brought the focus back to the core mission ahead. Board President Michael Tubb opened the leadership addresses by emphasizing the district's unified strength, setting a collaborative tone for the room and reinforcing the board's collective commitment to backing staff initiatives. Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard then took the stage with an inspiring message about collective impact. Highlighting the visible strength of the district gathered in one arena, Dr. Sheppard reminded educators that everyone contributes to student success and encouraged staff by affirming the district's belief in them as they strive to build a world-class environment. The convocation concluded with traditional Lobo spirit. After awarding the Spirit Stick, staff joined in singing the school song and headed back to their campuses with renewed momentum for the upcoming year.

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Business and Finance Education

Banking on the Future:

TBT Unveils Largest Record-Breaking Student Board in Tyler Story and photos by P A U L A J I M E N E Z

he usually quiet lobby of Texas Bank & Trust’s (TBT) Tyler branch on Grand Blvd. was transformed into a lively scene. The highlight of the event was the official introduction of its 20262027 Student Board of Directors (SBD). James Sheridan, Senior Vice President (VP) of Commercial Lending, was the first to take the podium, saying, “To the parents out there tonight, thank you all for what you’ve done to help get your children to this point.” Next, Executive VP and Chief Marketing Officer

Karen Partee announced a significant milestone: this was the largest class in the program's 49-year history, with 84 graduating seniors from seven Tyler schools. Following this, Abigail Duty, VP and Business Development Officer, who helped launch the program in Tyler alongside Partee, introduced the new SBD. She emphasized how the experiences ahead would prepare them not just for college, but also for the challenges and opportunities of adult life.

Tammy Gage, Kim Borrelli, Montana Garcia, Angie Murphree, Mary Shogry, and Lori Osborne

Laura Thedford, Isabel Thedford, and Terence Thedford

New Student Board Members from Tyler Legacy High School

Chris Gibson, Claire Gibson, and Julie Gibson

New Student Board Members from Tyler High School

Sean Sanders, Luke Sanders, and Lindy Sanders

Daniel Means, William Means, and Dr. Kent Webb

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Jennifer Tatham, Finley Tatham, and Shawn Tatham

As the evening drew to a close, Mr. Claude Henry, President of the Tyler Region, stepped forward to offer his sincere gratitude. He thanked all parties involved for their dedication each year. The initiative equips seniors with real-world financial skills and teaches them to avoid common pitfalls. Visit the complete story and view the full list of students on the 2026-2027 board at www. infinitieplusmag.com.

Posing in front of ATM to earns points

Tanner Smith and Danny Shepard

Jason Trimble and Aaron May

Willie Evans, Willow Evans, and Nikishia Allen

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Inspiration

Community Connections Education

“I’VE SHOT MYSELF” By GUIDO MINISTRIES

n Texas, the store owner grew weary of repeated break-ins. He devised what he thought was a clever plan: he rigged a shotgun to fire at anyone who opened the door while the store was closed. One morning he arrived early, forgot to disarm the trap, and opened the door. The gun discharged. As he collapsed to the floor, he cried out in shock, “I’ve shot myself!” Sometimes our great ideas can get us “killed.” We are attracted by the things of this world and become influenced by its many “traps.” We begin to believe that our plans are better than what God has planned for us, and we mindlessly walk in paths that lead to our destruction and death. Instead, we need to surrender our lives to God and ask Him to make His way known to us as we read and trust His Word. When we accept His precious gift of salvation and eternal life, we realize we are citizens of His kingdom and obligated to live lives that honor Him. Are there habits, attitudes, or pursuits that are quietly wounding your soul? It is never too late to stop, turn around, and walk in God’s ways. In Him you will find life instead of death, freedom instead of bondage, and hope instead of regret.

Future leaders take the boardroom Texas Bank and Trust welcomes 69 area seniors to esteemed Longview Student Board

Story and photos by JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI / www.infinitieplusmag.com

Prayer:

Father, help me recognize the sin in my life that keeps me from growing into the likeness of Your Son. I pray that Your Holy Spirit will convict me and cleanse me and make me pleasing in Your sight. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Scripture For Today: For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

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Longview program continues to empower the next generation of leaders through financial literacy and leadership. Texas Bank and Trust recently announced the selection of 69 outstanding high school seniors from the Mitchell Eggerman Clark Medin Longview area to serve on its 2026–2027 Student Board of Real-World Learning, RealDirectors. Now entering its 49th World Impact year, the TB&T Student Board Throughout the year, the remains one of East Texas’s most Student Board will participate respected youth development in The Real L.I.F.E. Experience initiatives—connecting students 2.0—an expanded simulation to finance, leadership, and realfrom TB&T’s Living Institute for world decision-making. Financial Education. Students will navigate the financial challenges of life after high school, including managing a household and preparing for college expenses. They’ll also serve as youth advisors, contributing ideas and feedback to develop a middle school financial literacy curriculum and further extend LISD Sup. Dr. Marla Sheppard and LHS new the program's impact throughout TBT Student Board Members. See pg.16 the community.

Schools Represented

This year’s board members were selected from five local high schools: z Christian Heritage School z Longview High School z Pine Tree High School z Spring Hill High School z Trinity School of Texas.

How Students Were Selected

Applicants were chosen based on: Ê Academic performance (GPA) Ê Extracurricular activities

Kacy, Kaylee, and Dustin Swaim

Ê After-school work experience Ê A personal essay and Ê Two letters of recommendation (from a teacher or administrator)

A Tradition of Excellence

Since the program’s inception in 1978, thousands of high school seniors have completed the TB&T Student Board program. For many, it’s been a defining step toward college, career, and community involvement. For information on applying to the 2027–2028 Student Board, please contact Tammy Gage, Community Relations Manager. The 📞 is (903) 237-5568.

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Puzzle and Finance Business

CABLELYNX BROADBAND HOSTS BAH Story and photos by J O Y C E L Y N E F A D O J U T I M I

ongview and Kilgore Cable recently celebrated 25 years of service by hosting the Longview Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, featuring pitches from several local organizations:

z Gallery of Lights: Sandra

z Longview ISD: Francisco

And attendees claimed some nice door prizes.

Rojas praised the district's competitive community and highlighted its free, full International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Holts promoted their extensive inventory of furniture, hardware, and decor. She also awarded a $100 gift certificate to Lakeport Mayor Johnny Salmons.

z All Seasons Window

and Door: Donnie Knoop shared that they manufacture windows locally and offer complete installation services for new construction and remodels. L-r: Paula Loden, Rebecca Holland, Shelley Scraver, and Karen Miller

Dale Lessenbury

Sandra Holt

L-r: Catherine Camp, Donnie Knoop, Amanda Parker, Jim Bartlett and Nikita Mumphrey

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

GRUBS UP

THE MEANING OF

Roasted vegetables make a healthy, filling option

hen the weather is still warm, the desire for healthy, lighter fare rises alongside the mercury. That leads many people to turn to vegetables, which can satisfy hunger pangs but typically don't create feelings of sluggishness. Vegetables can be cooked in myriad ways, and some can even be eaten raw. If raw vegetables don’t sound appealing, roasting is a great way to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. This recipe for Roasted Vegetables With Pignoli Nuts from Lines Angles is sure to please.

Makes 4 Servings

2 2 8

red bell peppers, seeds removed and sliced lengthwise green peppers, seeds removed and sliced horizontally large stalks celery, quartered lengthwise, then horizontally cloves garlic, peeled, whole

10 WOMEN TODAY

WT STAFF REPORT

Roasted Vegetables with Pignoli Nuts 2

WELLNESS

shallots, peeled, whole 2 portobello mushroom caps, cut into quarters 7 tablespoons olive oil Kosher salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 cup pignoli nuts

Preheat oven to 450 F. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and toss until well coated. Transfer to a sheet tray and spread vegetables into a single layer. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Transfer roasted vegetables to a serving dish, sprinkle pignoli nuts over the top, and serve.

SEPTEMBER 2026

ellness is an oftheard buzzword among those looking to live a healthy lifestyle, but it's also something of a mystery. The Global Wellness Institute defines wellness as the active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to holistic health. Some experts break wellness down into four categories: spiritual, social, psychological, and physical. Similarly, the Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program says wellness is promoted through self-care, including four key strategies: rest, relaxation, replenishment, and release. Although the terms wellness, health, and well-being are often interchanged, each is distinct.

SEPTEMBER 2026

Health:

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign says health often is defined as the absence of illness and disease, so various physical, social, and mental conditions fall under the health umbrella.

Well-being:

Although definitions of well-being vary, the term generally refers to living a fulfilling life in which a person feels content. The World Health Organization says well-being is "a positive state experienced by individuals and societies."

Wellness:

The whole-health organization Take Care® says wellness refers to pursuing activities, choices, and lifestyles that create health. Wellness is a plan or individual pursuit to achieve health and, in turn, a greater sense of well-being.

A better understanding of the niche components of overall health and wellness can help people enjoy physical and mental benefits and live more fulfilling lives. The following are some ways to pursue wellness: *Self-care *Routine medical exams and immunizations *Healthy diet and exercise habits *Being aware of one's feelings *Cultivating an optimistic outlook *Learning ways

to avoid or manage stress *Being open to new ideas and perspectives *Engaging in social activities, volunteerism, and contributing to the community *Finding meaning or purpose The concepts of wellness, well-being, and health seem interchangeable, but some distinctions set them apart. A combination of all three ultimately adds up to a healthier individual

WOMEN TODAY

“Ozempic Face”:

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The medical reality of GLP-1 weight loss drugs WT STAFF REPORT

he massive rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists—like Ozempic (semaglutide)—marks a major shift in obesity management. Originally targeted to treat type 2 diabetes, these drugs are now widely used for weight loss. According to recent data, roughly 12% of adults in the United States have used a GLP-1 medication. However, these "miracle drugs" are not without side effects. Medical experts at UCLA Health note that they trick the brain and stomach into making a person feel full faster, which frequently causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating.

8 WOMEN TODAY

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Safe Timelines and Solutions To minimize sagging skin and facial volume loss, medical experts emphasize losing weight at a controlled pace.

♦ The Safe Timeline: Clinical guidelines

from institutions like the CDC state that a safe, sustainable rate of weight loss is 1 to 2 pounds per week (or 4 to 8 pounds per month).

♦ Dosage Management: When using GLP-1

medications, doctors can adjust the dosage downward to slow the pace of weight reduction. This gradual timeline gives the skin time to adapt, protects lean muscle mass, and prevents a gaunt facial appearance.

♦

The Cause of "Ozempic Face" Beyond digestive issues, a highly publicized phenomenon known as "Ozempic face" has emerged. Characterized by gauntness, sunken cheeks, hollow temples, and loose skin, doctors clarify that this is not a direct side effect of the medication itself. Instead, it is a natural biological consequence of rapid weight loss. This same

SEPTEMBER 2026

aging effect happens whether a person drops weight quickly through GLP-1 drugs, bariatric surgery, or extreme lifestyle changes. When weight falls too quickly, the body pulls fat from the face first, and the skin loses elasticity because it does not have enough time to adjust and shrink.

SEPTEMBER 2026

Aesthetic Restoration: For those who have already experienced rapid facial volume depletion, many turn to injectable dermal fillers to plump the skin and recreate a more youthful structure. Ultimately, while GLP-1 medications deliver highly effective metabolic results, maintaining a gradual, safe timeline is crucial to protecting both physical health and facial elasticity.

WOMEN TODAY

COVER STORY

COVER STORY Growing up without her mother, Darlene Jones, left a lasting impact. She often wonders what her mom would say about all the antics and adventures she’s had over the years, knowing Darlene was known for her sense of humor. She treasures that connection but admits it was difficult watching her friends grow up with their mothers, something she always longed for herself. Thankfully, elementary school is never short on comic relief. Sometimes, children keep you humble, whether you ask for it or not. One time, she asked a Pre-K student if she could take a picture of them to send to their mother.

“Every child can learn, but they need to feel known, valued, and supported.” - Georgeanna Jones High-fiving student in the hallway

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SEPTEMBER 2026

They looked at her and said very seriously, “My mom knows what I look like,” and kept walking. Another Pre-K student looked at her badge and told her she needed a new picture because they did not like the way she looked. She told them she would try to fix it. The following day, they came in, immediately looked at her badge, and shook their head in disgust when they realized she still hadn't gotten a new picture. Beyond her role as principal, she is known for her love of truecrime books and documentaries, her time with friends who have become family, and her status as a self-proclaimed pool-andlake bum. Humor is her coping mechanism. She can turn most situations into a joke, even

SEPTEMBER 2026

Earning 2026 Principal of the Year with Ruby Abarca and Dr. Marty Crawford tough ones. She and Winston are regulars at 1836 Texas Kitchen, and her favorite subject is math. If she could have any superpower, she’d change the weather to guarantee perfect recess, and if she could add any class to the curriculum, it would be leadership skills. Additionally, she shares this advice with aspiring principals: Build relationships with your students. Never forget why you started. Give yourself permission

to make mistakes and learn from them. She believes true leadership isn’t about titles, but about creating a space where others can thrive. From the cheerful morning greetings to the final bell, Georgeanna Jones strives to sign every email with “you are loved”—a fitting message from a principal who has made AWE the kind of school you simply have to experience to truly understand.

WOMEN TODAY

COVER STORY

Even during the summer, students swing by on scooters, hoping to catch a glimpse of their teachers. The PTA’s dedication shines through every corner of the campus. Their creativity and commitment bring unforgettable experiences to life, whether it’s the annual Run for the Woods 5K (now a Halloween costume run), the legendary Spring Carnival complete with real fair rides, or last year’s record-breaking book fair sales, the largest in Texas. These events are just a glimpse of their extraordinary energy. Furthermore, she works hard to match that enthusiasm by ensuring every student, teacher, and parent feels part of the Wrangler family. Whether it’s recognizing that student behavior is a form of communication or making sure teachers have the resources they need, her approach to guiding the school is all about support. “Happy staff equals happy kids,” she says, a mantra you can see in action every day, noting the school’s remarkably low turnover rate and that enrollment has grown from around 585 students to more than 800. Even when teachers’ families move, they’re sad to leave the school behind. Her biggest philosophy. “Every child can learn, but they need to feel known, valued, and supported.”

No story about Andy Woods would be complete without the lovable Mr. Winston mentioned earlier. That’s her only “child” and a true campus celebrity. Winston started tagging along to school as a wiggly pup, and now he’s just as much a part of the daily routine as morning announcements. He’s the unofficial campus mascot, always ready to celebrate student success, boost teacher morale, or hand out popsicles on his birthday. Kids light up when they see him at the front doors, and teachers pop in for a quick “pet break” during their conference periods. Of course, leading a school isn’t all sunshine and festivities. She acknowledges

the challenges, from students carrying heavy burdens to the demands on teachers’ time. Yet, she strives to be present and approachable, often leaving her office door open and shunning unnecessary meetings. She’s quick to celebrate staff with shout-outs, awards, and, yes, jean days and Woohoo Wagons, but she knows the real magic is in providing genuine support and resources. Reflecting on her journey, she recognizes how much others have poured into her at every stage. That steady encouragement inspired her to become a teacher, hoping

Campus pet, Winston Duke

Georgeanna Jones's family celebrating her earning Principle of the Year 2026

5K Run for the Woods Color Fundraiser

to give back and invest in kids the way others invested in her. She credits her middle school teachers, Julie Haley and Dorinda Fry, with shaping her story from those formative years into adulthood. She also holds special gratitude for assistant principal Connie Moore, who later served as principal before she took the helm. She says it’s the highest compliment when staff and parents notice similarities in their leadership styles, and she’s proud to share that they remain close even today. Now, she finds joy in watching her own students grow from nervous third graders into confident fifth graders, even though letting them go never gets easier. Meanwhile, stepping into her office is always an adventure; you never know what you’ll find. It’s decorated with student art and, thanks to her playful staff, hidden Jesus and turtle figurines. To top it all off, she received the surprise honor of being named Principal of the Year 2026 during an annual district event. She didn’t know until her name was announced, which made the genuine emotion on her face even more memorable on stage. Contd. on Page 6

Ms. Georgeanna Jones

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SEPTEMBER 2026

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Building Belonging:

GeorgeannaJones,

Longest-Serving Female Principal, Tyler ISD Story by P A U L A J I M E N E Z

tep inside Andy Woods Elementary (AWE) in Tyler, Texas, and you’re bound to sense more than just the familiar scent of crayons and the chatter of students, and maybe even a 147-pound Great Dane named Winston Duke waiting for a pat. At the helm of this vibrant campus is Principal Georgeanna Jones, the heart of AWE and Tyler ISD's longest-serving principal, now celebrating her 13th year in the role. Her path to the principal’s office was anything but conventional. After losing her mother at five, Georgeanna was embraced by a network

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of church friends who became her lifeline. While her only sibling, Lisa Thompson, is also an assistant principal, her circle grew to include many “adopted” unofficial family members. She especially credits Andy Wells, a business owner who demonstrated family-style leadership and a hands-on work ethic. “If you’ve ever heard the phrase ‘it takes a village,’ my picture should be in that journal,” she jokes. Those early experiences of involvement and encouragement now shape how she leads her campus. But growing up, education wasn’t always smooth sailing. “I have the discipline rap sheets

to prove it,” she confesses, reflecting on a rocky start to eighth grade that included spending the first ten days in In-School Suspension. She even claims responsibility for the infamous “no backpacks allowed” rule during the last week of school. Looking back, she recognizes that her mischief was really a search for belonging and a place to fit in. What she truly needed was someone to show her that her past didn’t determine her future, and that she had the power to write her own story. Then came a moment that could have broken her spirit: an adult she deeply respected told her she would never

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make it through college and would soon be back home. She remembers that sting, but instead of letting it defeat her, she transformed that negativity into fuel. It became the push she needed, not just to prove her doubters wrong, but to conquer her own insecurities as well. She went on to graduate from the University of North Texas, vowing not to return to Tyler until she held her master’s degree and a great job in hand. Her work journey began at Target, where she rose to Team Leader, and later as a teacher at Richardson ISD. Eventually, she returned home and joined the Tyler ISD team. In a full-circle twist, her interview

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was led by her own middle school principal, Dr. Karen Raney. Now in her 13th year as principal, she has built an educational culture as lively as a Friday pep rally. There’s a palpable sense of joy at AWE. “You can feel the love and excitement the moment you walk in,” she beams. Ms. Georgeanna Jones

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