Transforming the world by FAITH, EDUCATION and SERVICE.
Core Values
We believe in…
Demonstrating God’s love and sacrifice for all people
Embracing everyone’s potential to be extraordinary
Serving others with dignity
Teaching values, building character and demanding integrity
I nvesting in positive community transformation
Nurturing self-confidence, individual sacrifice and embracing cultural awareness
YOU BELONG!
Our Mission
To provide an unparalleled education and compatible community services through a faith-based experience, with emphasis on impacting low- and moderate-income families.
EDITORIAL & DESIGN TEAM: Kaitlyn Holmes, Sherilyn Jones
CONTRIBUTORS: Jacquelyn Andrews, Aarika Cofer, Susan Fisk, Dr. Terry J. Flowers, Tara Garrett, Kristopher Harris, Alicia Holmes, Margertree Holmes, Matilda Louree, Kellee Murell
THE ART WITHIN
As we move into the final stretch of the completion of our Moody Performing and Fine Arts building, I'm reminded of a quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes.
"Many People Die With Their Music Still In Them"
This edition of our 1600 magazine emphasizes the art of possibility. As an educator, I encourage our families to understand that the fullness of human development is not limited to the traditional exploits of academia. Just as the world functions through rhythm, dramatics, and expressive manifestations, so it is true with the fulfillment of human capacity. Character, confidence, charisma, class, consciousness and even charm flow through avenues of the arts. We fail to enrich lives when we reduce the educational experience to what tend to be narrowed courses that exclude the arts.
Over recent decades we have seen trends to S.T.E.M. schools on to S.T.E.A.M schools when the reality is S.T.R.E.A.M. schools. As independent schools have long contended, reading remains fundamental, and the arts bring fuel to all subject areas.
For generations, St. Phillip’s has been intentional about ensuring that every student has an opportunity for artistic expression, the experience of standing before a crowd and taking their bow before an audience.
We are delighted to have alumni who have gone on to bless the world. From Hollywood to Broadway, from the Meyerson to the Bomb Factory and American Airlines Center, our success is undeniable.
Local news, screenwriters' guilds, art shows, symphony and grammy performances by way of SCAD, NYU, Julliard, Booker T, Hockaday and many other pathways have kept the art alive in hundreds of our graduates.
As you browse the pages of this edition of our magazine, it is my hope that you identify with our determination to cultivate the art and its possibility for each student youth in our School and Community Center.
Blessings to all of those who maintain a deep appreciation for the contributions art makes to our lives. We have no doubt that God has gifted each of us ingredients of art. The evidence is within, just as sure as your heART is pulsing with rhythm.
Dr.
Terry J. FLowers
Perot Family Headmaster
Character, confidence, charisma, class, consciousness and even charm flow through avenues of the arts.
And Jesus said to him, “‘If You can?’ All things are possible to him who believes.”- Mark 9:23
At St. Philip’s, we live in the space of possibility, where dreams take root, and with faith and determination, they grow into reality.
This fall, we will proudly welcome our students into the Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center, a long-held dream now fulfilled. More than just a building, this space represents the power of community, the fruit of faith-filled partnership, and a bold investment in the creative potential of our young people.
The performing and visual arts are more than enrichment, they are essential pathways for expression, confidence, and healing. Through the arts, our students discover their voices, embrace their uniqueness, and develop the courage to shine. Arts education fosters a culture of continual growth and feedback and often serves as a vital outlet for social and emotional wellness.
A DREAM FULFILLED
We are deeply grateful that the vision for the Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center was not deferred but rather delivered. Now, our students will have a state-of-the-art space to dream, create, and thrive together.
As we prepare for the new school year, we are also launching SPARC! The St. Philip’s Academic Readiness Cohort is more than a program; it’s a transformation in how we equip students to meet and exceed academic expectations.
Grounded in faith and driven by data, SPARC offers differentiated instruction and curriculum tailored to each student’s learning readiness. It was piloted with our middle school students, and the results speak for themselves: high school acceptances, increased self-esteem, and measurable instructional success. Feedback from parents, teachers, and stakeholders helped shape this curriculum, and their voices have guided its evolution.
At the heart of SPARC is our Graduate Profile, a vision for every student to become an intellectually driven, Christ-centered servant leader who values wellness, cultural awareness, and social justice. Through this comprehensive approach, we prepare our students not just for tests, but for life.
This is the beauty of possibility fulfilled. As we look ahead, we do so with deep hope and strong conviction that God has ordered our steps and that He will continue to turn our dreams into reality.
Kellee Murrell George T. Lee Principal
Faith, Education and Service are equally represented in all our programs and when joined together they yield extraordinary impact.
A NEW STAGE:
EXPANDING THE FINE ARTS AT ST. PHILIP’S
St. Philip’s School and Community Center recently celebrated a significant milestone in the construction of the upcoming Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center with a memorable Beam Signing Ceremony. The special event marked the installation of the structural beams that will become a permanent part of the building's superstructure.
The new Center is more than just a building; it’s a vibrant space dedicated to nurturing artistic expression and empowering young students in South Dallas. It represents a meaningful step forward in connecting art with purpose and gives children the tools they need to thrive.
The ceremony brought together St. Philip’s faith partners, corporate and community leaders, and individual supporters. A particularly heartwarming highlight was the participation of students from PreK-2 through 8th grade and employees who added their names, finger-painted artwork, prayers, and heartfelt messages to the beams.
More than 40 guests contributed their signatures and special blessings and created a lasting legacy within the very framework of the new facility.
We invite you to join us in building a philanthropic legacy at St. Philip’s by considering one of the remaining naming opportunities, ranging from larger spaces to more intimate ones such as classrooms.
Naming Opportunities:
This is a wonderful way to make a meaningful and lasting gift. If you are interested, please contact Matilda Louree at 214-421-5221 ext. 284.
Constructed on land once occupied by a liquor store, the center will include an art gallery, a cafetorium, specialized classrooms, outdoor learning areas, and a city-mandated storm shelter. The 17,898-square-foot Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center will serve as a dynamic venue for student performances and arts education, as well as a cultural hub for community events. MAPP is the general contractor for the project, with architectural design by KAI Enterprises.
HIGHLIGHTS
FROM THE SCHOOL Christian Education
A ARC RC
St. Philip's Academic Readiness Cohort
At St. Philip’s School and Community Center, our revised curriculum approach aligns with our mission of delivering unparalleled education and comprehensive community services through a faith-based experience. Designed to meet and exceed grade-level expectations, our curriculum provides differentiated instruction tailored to each student's abilities and readiness and ensures they receive the support and challenge necessary for academic success.
This approach was piloted with our middle school students, and we have seen significant success in 8th-grade high school acceptances, student self-esteem, and instructional effectiveness which demonstrates the impact of our rigorous and supportive academic model. The curriculum approach was developed based on data and feedback from parents, teachers, and other stakeholders. Students will remain in their homeroom classes and transition to their academic readiness courses for reading and math. All other classes will be with their grade level peers.
Grounded in a holistic approach, our curriculum is guided by our Graduate Profile, which prepares students to be intellectually driven, Christ-centered servant leaders who exemplify inter- and intrapersonal wellness, cultural awareness, and a commitment to social justice.
Through this comprehensive preparation, students are empowered to excel academically, lead with integrity, and navigate their Life After St. Philip’s with confidence, whether they continue their education in public, private, or charter school.
Education allows you to turn your mirrors into windows
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!
CHEERS TO THE CLASS OF 2025
St. Philip’s proudly celebrates our remarkable 8th graders and all they have accomplished this year. Each of you has worked hard and grown in meaningful ways to reach this important milestone. As you begin this next chapter of your educational journey, know that you remain in our prayers. We look forward to hearing about your future successes, keep shining! Great Things Lie Ahead!
Charlee McCoy
Desirae Bedford Dionne-Leila Chaney
Ellington Young
Lily Honeyman
Mark Murrell
Quinn Forteau
Preston McMillan
Zoi Madison
Sydney Walton
Brycen Patton
Alyse Anderson
Naiel Wheeler
FAMILY PRIDE AND LOVE PROUD MOM & DAD
UPDATES FROM DIVISION DIRECTORS
The 2025–2026 school year in Early Childhood will be filled with a world of possibilities!
We are excited to welcome back the Godly Play program, which nurtures spiritual growth and helps our youngest learners build a meaningful relationship with God from the very beginning. This year also marks the introduction of the St. Philip's Academic Readiness Cohort, designed to provide our early learners with an even stronger academic foundation. Much like last year, we will continue building independent life skills that cultivate
confidence in our students beyond the classroom. The Shoe Tie Club was a huge success, and we look forward to expanding on those self-help skills throughout the year. With a focus on spiritual growth, academic readiness, and practical life skills, our Early Childhood program is preparing students for a bright and purpose-filled future.
Ametria Maryland
Early Childhood Director
This Spring season was a celebration of curiosity, courage, and creativity brought to life through unforgettable academic excursions and meaningful student work.
First-grade students toured popular Dallas landmarks and read to miniature horses on a local farm, further proving that literacy and imagination make engaging education possible. Third-grade students embraced the outdoors with hands-on learning at both Sky Ranch and Timberview Farms. Fourth graders walked through history as they explored the cultural and political legacy of Texas during visits to Austin and San Antonio. Our fifth-grade scholars traced the footsteps of our ancestors on a powerful Civil Rights journey across Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. The season culminated with dynamic Project-Based Learning presentations for all grades and an inspiring Awards Day assembly, where student accomplishments were celebrated with pride.
Jacquelyn Andrews
Lower
School
& Middle School Prep Director
Tara Garrett Middle School Director
For the upcoming school year, we are excited to reignite students’ love for literacy through engaging reading initiatives and interactive learning experiences.
We’re introducing new clubs that reflect student interests, fostering creativity, leadership, and collaboration. Additionally, our expanded sports program will include new team offerings to promote interpersonal wellness and school spirit. These changes aim to create a more dynamic and supportive environment to prepare students for Life After St. Philip's.
Community Impact
A TESTIMONY OF TRANSFORMATION
What happens when you imagine more for a place that others have overlooked?
At St. Philip’s School and Community Center, possibility is not an abstract idea. It is a daily practice, a bold commitment to transform our campus and community into something greater. What began as a mission to educate children in South Dallas has evolved into a movement of renewal and opportunity that is reshaping an entire neighborhood.
Aunt Bette’s Community Pantry reimagines how we address hunger. Structured like a grocery store, it distributes over 700,000 pounds of food annually and continues to be a cornerstone of hope for food-insecure families.
The Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center is scheduled for completion by Fall 2025. The center will provide a creative outlet for students and serve as a unifying space for local artists and performers.
Promise Park , a new athletic and recreation complex, will serve over 1,500 student athletes, families and seniors annually. The facility will support multiple sports and offer amenities such as restrooms, parking, walking trails, and seating for community events. The complex is designed to promote year-round physical activity and connection.
Economic revitalization efforts along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard have restored several historic retail properties. Ruthie’s Cafe, now open at 1632 MLK Boulevard, offers expanded menu options in a warm, community-centered space. Additional renovated storefronts will soon house new tenants, including a full service Baylor Scott & White Health Clinic and Sweet & Chill, a gourmet dessert shop founded by Keisha and Nick Reeder.
Trinity Community Holdings, LLC a subsidiary of St. Philip's is building seven new homes, including affordable halfplexes and a Accessary Dwelling Unit. Our approach ensures quality housing for families earning 60 to 100 percent of the area median income. The goal is to promote stable, thriving households while honoring and sustaining the rich cultural identity of the community.
None of this progress would be possible without the incredible partnerships that fuel our work. From grant funding and private donations to pro bono support from architects and engineers, every effort has been rooted in a collective belief that South Dallas deserves excellence. By creating thriving spaces without displacing long-time residents, we are building a future grounded in equity and shared opportunity.
At St. Philip’s, the art of possibility lives not just in what we build but in how we build it, with faith, imagination, and the courage to believe that every child, family, and neighborhood can thrive. This is more than transformation; it is testimony. And with your love, prayers and support, our story continues.
AT A GLANCE: Donor Thank You
DONOR THANK YOU
As the season of renewal and reflection unfolds, we are reminded that our faith remains our source of strength, guiding us, lifting us up, and propelling us forward.
Thanks to your unwavering support, St. Philip’s School and Community Center has remained a beacon of hope and service in our community. Your partnership over the years has inspired us to persist undaunted and unshaken. Because of you, we continue to bless lives and serve those who need us most.
WE THANK OUR GENEROUS DONORS FOR ENHANCING CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY!
THE VILLAGE - A HEART FOR SERVICE
When you meet Emoni T. Wicks, her warmth and authenticity leave a lasting impression. Whether organizing a classroom celebration, lending her professional skills to a community partnership, or simply cheering on her children from the sidelines, Emoni embodies the spirit of service. For over four years, she's been an active part of the St. Philip's School and Community Center family, a place she calls not just her children's school but a true home.
Emoni has built an impressive 19-year career with Ernst & Young (EY), one of the world's leading professional services organizations. This journey has been marked not only by personal growth and professional success but also by a deep commitment to giving back.
"Throughout my time at EY, I've had the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work," Emoni shares. "But one of the things I value most is EY's support of our partnership with St. Philip's. It's an organization that means so much to me and my family."
Indeed, her family's connection to St. Philip's runs deep. Emoni and her husband Will have been married for 12 joyful years, and together they are raising two children Neiman, a bright and inquisitive 7th grader, and Dakoda, a bold and spirited 4th grader. Both are thriving at St. Philip's, thanks in no small part to the strong foundation their mother has helped to lay both at home and in the community.
As the 4th Grade Homeroom Parent for the 2024-25 school year, Emoni is a familiar and beloved face among students, parents, and staff. "I volunteer wherever I can," she says with a smile. "But being a homeroom parent gives me a special chance to stay engaged in my children's educational environment. It's a role I truly enjoy."
Her dedication to service doesn't stop at the school gates. Emoni is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first intercollegiate historically African American sorority. Through AKA, she embraces a sisterhood rooted in service, scholarship, and leadership principles that clearly resonate throughout every aspect of her life.
"Whether it's through my work at EY, my involvement at St. Philip's, or my service through Alpha Kappa Alpha, I strive to lead with purpose," she reflects. "I've been blessed in so many ways, and I believe in giving back to the communities that have given so much to me."
To many at St. Philip's, Emoni is more than just a parent volunteer. She is a role model, a leader, and a friend. Her ability to balance career, family, and community with grace and humility is a source of inspiration. She reminds us all that when service comes from the heart, it becomes a powerful force for connection and change.
As St. Philip's continues to grow and thrive, parents like Emoni T. Wicks help shape its legacy by one act of kindness, one student celebration, and one meaningful partnership at a time. For more information on how you can serve alongside us, visit our website! www.stphilips1600.org/getinvolved or email volunteer@stphilips.com
Athletics
BASKETBALL BUILDS
From January through March, the St. Philip’s Community Athletics Program hosted an exciting basketball season, welcoming 51 teams of boys and girls ages 4–14. The season provided young athletes with the opportunity to engage in friendly competition, develop their skills, and build lasting friendships in a safe, supportive environment.
The season culminated in the highly anticipated Paul Bryson Tournament, an annual tradition that celebrates excellence, teamwork, and community spirit. This year, we were honored to recognize Mrs. Sharmane Bryson and her two daughters as we remembered the legacy of her late husband, Paul Bryson, whose contributions to youth sports and mentorship continue to inspire.
Special congratulations to the Wildcats, champions of the 8U and 10U divisions. These talented teams proudly represented the Saints League at the Cross-Town Showdown, an exciting interleague event co-hosted with our partners at Mercy Street.
We extend our gratitude to all the athletes, coaches, staff, and volunteers who made this season unforgettable. Your dedication and teamwork brought energy and joy to the court each week and reminded us of the powerful impact of community sports.
CLASS OF 2019 GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENTS Alumni
RISING IN EXCELLENCE
Tristan Blackwell
Tristan Blackwell graduated from Episcopal School of Dallas and plans to play college lacrosse and major in Financial Economics and Accounting.
Simone Green
Simone Green graduated from Pulaski County School and plans to pursue Nursing.
Joshua Hill
Joshua Hill graduated from Harmony School of Innovation Garland and has received several Texas University acceptances. He will attend either the University of North Texas at Dallas or University of North Texas at Denton.
Jack Honeyman
Jack Honeyman graduated from Booker T. Washington School for the Performing and Visual Arts and has been accepted and committed to Oklahoma City University for BFA in Theatre Design and Technology for State Management.
Julian Price
Julian Price graduated from South Oak Cliff High School and plans to attend the University of Houston to pursue Real Estate Finance with plans to become a realtor upon graduation.
Sydney Thomas
Sydney Thomas graduated from Booker T. Washington School for the Performing and Visual Arts and has received 13 college acceptances. She plans to pursue Vocal Performance with a minor in Music Business.
Morgan Long
Morgan Long graduated from Yvonne A. Ewell Townview-Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet and has been accepted to 11 universities and awarded a total of $384,000 in scholarships. She plans to pursue History in hopes of becoming a Curator.
Zakarya Smith
Zakarya Smith graduated from David W. Carter High School and Cedar Valley Community College. She was accepted to 24 colleges and has received The Community Scholarship Award for $250,000, at Texas Christian University. She has received her Associates Degree from Cedar Valley Community College in Criminal Justice and will be entering TCU as a Junior, planning to double major in Political Science and Psychology with a goal of becoming a Lawyer.
Khylon Thigpen
Khylon Thigpen graduated from Ewell Townview-School of Business & Management and will pursue a degree in Mass Communications/ Journalism from either North Carolina A&T or Prairie View A&M.
Elijah Yow
Elijah Yow graduated from Yvonne A. Ewell Townview-Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet.
*Julian Mayfield graduated from Celina High School. Not pictured
CONGRATULATIONS COLLEGE GRADS
Bachelor of Science (2025), Theatre Arts: Acting & Directing, Bowie State University
Masters of Education (2025), Educational Administration, East Texas A&M University
Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off! As you turn the page to a new chapter, remember that this is just the beginning of all the amazing things you’re destined to do. Congratulations, graduates, the future is yours!
Jacobie Thornton
Michele Thornton
ALUMNI RECONNECT AND RE-ENGAGE
The St. Philip’s Alumni Mixer was a beautiful celebration of legacy, and community.
Held at the iconic Reunion Tower, the event brought together 48 former students for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, stories, and renewed bonds, all set against the breathtaking backdrop from the Geo-Deck.
Alumni reconnected with old friends and shared reflections on the foundation St. Philip’s has provided in their lives. The evening was made even more special by the generosity of Ruthie’s Food Truck , which provided delicious complimentary meals that added to the joyful atmosphere.
During the event, alumni learned about a new tradition being launched at this year’s graduation. Each eighth-grade graduate will walk alongside a St. Philip’s alumnus or alumna that works in their field of interest, a visual full-circle moment.
The night also marked the official launch of the Alumni Impact Fund, which supports student learning experiences beyond the classroom. With the first donation of $116 already received, alumni are invited to contribute and help ensure future
generations benefit from these transformative academic excursions.
With gratitude and pride, we look forward to seeing alumni return, connect, and continue to shape the future with their brilliance.
ALUMNI PROFILES
Joshua Drayden
Joshua Drayden, a proud St. Philip’s School and Community Center graduate, is making a powerful impact in both education and athletics. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Berkeley, and later completed a master’s degree in education with a focus on Cultural Studies of Sport in Education. While in graduate school, he coached for the Cal football team and mentored student-athletes on and off the field. After a brief NFL career, Joshua transitioned into college football operations. He now serves as the Assistant Director of Player Personnel at Texas Christian University (TCU) and focuses on recruiting and player development. Joshua credits St. Philip’s for laying the foundation of his leadership and lifelong commitment to inspiring others.
Kevin Crawford
Kevin's transition from high school to college was a major shift. Even after two semesters at the University of North Texas (UNT) this new environment brought unexpected challenges but also opened the door to a deeper sense of freedom and self-discovery. College has allowed him to break free from the structure of earlier school years and begin exploring who he truly wants to be. One guiding principle he still carries with him from St. Philip’s is the final line of the creed: “Judge me not by what you’ve been told, but by what’s in my head.”
In a world filled with assumptions and hearsay, that reminder to live in truth continues to ground him. Now majoring in Theatre: Acting, he encourages incoming freshmen to confront self-doubt with courage, reminding them that bravery is found in persistence.
Mariah Drain
Mariah Drain, class of 2011, is now a rising third-year dental student at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, Class of 2027. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Health from Spelman College in 2021 and a Master of Health Science from Meharry in 2022. As she closes out her second year of dental school, she reflects on the difficult and triumphant moments that have shaped her path. The academic rigor first introduced to her at St. Philip’s helped develop the work ethic that carried her through years of challenging higher education. Soon, she will begin seeing patients as a student doctor, providing diagnostic, preventative, and restorative care under licensed supervision. Servicing God’s people through forums of healthcare is a continuum of the foundation started at home and at St. Philip’s.
Mikethion Williams
Mikethion Williams, a 2004 St. Philip’s grad, will graduate in May 2025 with an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He previously earned his Bachelor of Art from The University of Texas at Austin in 2015 and is an alumnus of The Episcopal School of Dallas, Class of 2010. Growing up in South Dallas, Mikethion credits St. Philip’s with laying the academic foundation that shaped his journey and opened doors to life-changing opportunities. He began his professional career in Washington D.C. with the U.S. House of Representatives, where he focused on policy and constituent services before moving into nonprofit fundraising in New York City. At Wharton, he concentrated on finance, marketing, and private markets in preparation for a transition into financial services. Mikethion looks forward to returning to New York to launch the next chapter of his career. He carries with him a deep sense of gratitude for the community that raised him.
Oni Colston
Oni Colston, a 2002 alumna of St. Philip’s School and Community Center, is currently making a meaningful impact as an MFT Clinical Intern at MHMR Tarrant and Rejuvenate Counseling. In her role, she provides compassionate and effective mental health support to clients ages 10 and up. Her work reflects a deep commitment to emotional wellness and personal growth. Oni continues to be an inspiring figure in the field of mental health. Her journey is a testament to the values and foundation instilled in her during her early years at St. Philip’s. She remains devoted to serving others through empathy, care, and professional excellence.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF COMMUNITY, LEGACY, AND HOPE
If you’ve ever stepped foot on the campus of St. Philip’s School and Community Center, you’ve felt that unmistakable sense of purpose, joy, and hope that fills the air. For over 75 years, our ministry has been a beacon of faith, education, and service in South Dallas.
On March 6, 2025, over 1,000 friends, alumni, and philanthropic partners gathered at the Hilton Anatole for an unforgettable afternoon of storytelling, inspiration, and impact. It was a joyful reunion, a tribute to our legacy, and a rallying cry for the future. Together, we raised an incredible $1.12 million to support the ministry’s mission and programs that touch thousands of lives each year.
This year’s event marked a remarkable milestone: 25 years of the Destiny Award Luncheon. Since its inception in 2000, Destiny has served as a spirited celebration of purpose, excellence, and shared vision.
Over the past quarter century, we’ve welcomed an inspiring lineup of voices to our stage, from the provocative insight of Dr. Cornel West to the powerhouse presence of Viola Davis, to the cultural impact of LL Cool J. Each speaker has brought more than star power; each brought values that mirror the heart of St. Philip’s - resilience, compassion, excellence, and justice.
To honor this rich legacy, this year’s luncheon featured a moving documentary tribute that captured the evolution and impact of Destiny over the past 25 years. Told through the voices of longtime supporters and St. Philip’s staff, the film painted a vibrant picture of a tradition that has grown from a vision into a cornerstone of the St. Philip’s story and invited us to imagine what the luncheon might become in the next 25 years.
We also introduced the Destiny Is Mine Award to recognize an individual who has carried the vision of Destiny with unwavering commitment. Jackie Joyner-Kersee, our 2012 Destiny Speaker and longtime supporter, took the stage to present the award to Roland Parrish. As our students delivered a powerful spoken word piece titled Passing the Baton, Mr. Parrish’s leadership and quiet strength were honored through a living tribute.
The main program sparkled with the presence of Julius "Dr. J" Erving , our 2025 Parrish Family Destiny Award Speaker. He was introduced by Elaine Agather, Chairman of JPMorgan Chase in Dallas. His story, one of humble beginnings, relentless perseverance, and a career defined by grace and generosity, reflects everything we hope to instill in the youth of St. Philip’s.
Joining him on stage was Jackie Joyner-Kersee, three-time Olympic gold medalist and beloved friend of the ministry. Jackie’s return to Destiny was deeply symbolic. Her warm, thoughtful conversation with Dr. J reminded us that true greatness is measured not only by accolades, but by the lives we touch along the way.
Earlier that morning, Dr. J and Jackie visited the campus of St. Philip’s, where they were guided on a powerful tour through our school, chapel, and community outreach spaces. They began their morning at Aunt Bette’s Community Pantry, walked to the soon-to-be-completed Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center, and visited the hallways of St. Philip’s, abuzz with joy and possibility. The visit culminated in a moment inside the chapel, where our scholars introduced our guests and recited the St. Philip’s Creed with conviction and pride. Our guests quickly became believers that “If it’s meant to be, it’s up to me”.
Destiny unfolds across days of communal moments that capture the heart and soul of St. Philip’s with the first celebration the night before the luncheon. The Patron Party was graciously hosted by JPMorgan Chase at the stunning Dallas Petroleum Club in the Hunt Building. Set against a backdrop of city lights, the evening radiated with elegance, laughter and gratitude and featured a stirring performance by Jordan Cleaver, a gifted St. Philip’s alumnae and cellist.
The next morning, guests arrived at the Hilton Anatole for a full slate of meaningful experiences. Special guests were invited into the Pre-Luncheon Reception, held in loving memory of Dr. Sherril English.
The room brimmed with warmth and reflection as her family offered touching remarks and guests reconnected over memories and mission. Many paused for photos with Dr. J, adding a joyful note to the morning’s celebration.
Just outside the ballroom, a vibrant Student Showcase came to life. Our middle school scholars stood proudly beside dazzling, student-created displays on The Science of the Free Throw, 25 Years of Women’s Basketball, Philanthropy in Basketball, and a lively Basketball History Jeopardy game. Each corner invited
guests to learn, interact, and even test their skills at a pop-up basketball shooting station.
As guests were welcomed into the ballroom, they were greeted by an original student performance led by our Fine Arts Department. The rhythmic bouncing of basketballs echoed through the space, setting a pulse of energy and intention. Through movement, choreography, and spoken word, our students delivered a performance that bridged sport and art, discipline and expression.
The ballroom was stunning with basketball-themed accents and each centerpiece a nod to the harmony of tradition and innovation. The aroma of a warm, thoughtfully prepared lunch filled the air.
During the program we honored the 2025 Mona and David Munson Humanitarian Award Recipients, Rozene Pride and her late husband Charley Pride. The moment was deeply moving, as Rozene accepted the award with grace and humility. A touching video tribute from friends and community leaders played on screen, honoring their legacy as music pioneers and champions for unity and service.
Later, Anastasia Bolden, a proud St. Philip’s alum and beneficiary, joined Randy Bowman, CEO of AT Last!, to deliver an impassioned Call to Action. With conviction and clarity, they reminded us that Destiny is a mission in motion. They invited us to give boldly, love deeply, and continue the work.
The luncheon concluded on an uplifting note with a heartfelt Benediction from Richie Butler, Senior Pastor of St. Luke Community United Methodist Church. With grace and warmth, Rev. Butler offered words of blessing and traveling mercies to all in attendance.
But the final moment belonged to joy. At the
moment of dismissal, Rev. Butler invited every guest to raise their gifted tambourine, each one aglow with multi-colored lights, and join in making a joyful noise. As the room erupted with the sound of tambourines shaking and laughter rising, the spirit of celebration lifted the space once more, sending everyone out with full hearts and renewed purpose.
THANK YOU TO OUR DEDICATED LEADERS & GENEROUS SPONSORS
It takes remarkable leadership to bring events like the Destiny Luncheon to life.
We are deeply grateful to our 2025 EVENT CHAIRS
LUNCHEON CHAIR
The David B. Miller Family
HUMANITARIAN AWARD HONOREE
Rozene Pride and the late Charley Pride
And to our incredible SPONSORS
UNDERWRITING CHAIR
Gwendolyn & Arthur George
HOST COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Marlena & Brent English
TITLE SPONSOR
JPMorgan Chase
CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY SPONSOR
David B. Miller Family Foundation
MVP SPONSOR
Stonelake Capital Partners
SHOWCASE SPONSOR
Lennox International, Inc.
STAGING SPONSOR
Bank of Texas
TABLESCAPES SPONSOR
H-E-B / Central Market
VALET SPONSOR
Sewell Automotive Companies
Along with the dozens of other valued sponsors, your partnership makes the impossible possible.
A MISSION THAT REACHES BEYOND OUR WALLS
The impact of Destiny stretches far beyond the ballroom. Every gift given during the luncheon supports:
AUNT BETTE’S COMMUNITY PANTRY serving neighbors with dignity and compassion
SENIOR TRANSPORTATION keeping elders connected and cared for
NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION expanding access to housing and economic opportunity
YOUTH SPORTS AND ENRICHMENT PROGRAM engaging over 1,500 children annually
ST. PHILIP’S SCHOOL & COMMUNITY CENTER SAINTS FUND offering scholarships and program funding for academics
KIDPRENEUER
AUNT BETTE'S COMMUNITY PANTRY
FANCY HAT TEA PARTY
CHRISTMAS STORE
St. Philip’s School & Community Center
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75215
www.stphilips1600.org
Discover a summer of fun, learning, and growth at St. Philip’s Summer Camp for students ages 3–14! Campers will build confidence through hands-on entrepreneurship activities and stay active with exciting sports programs led by experienced coaches. Join us for an unforgettable summer where young minds and bodies thrive!
