Message from the CEO United Way of Metropolitan Dallas lost a steadfast leader and supporter, Margaret McDermott, on May 3, 2018. Even in our sadness, we are filled with immense gratitude for the extraordinary life she led and shared with so many. Margaret radiated warmth and life to everyone and everything around her, and it is unimaginable to think of Dallas without her. Her magnanimous nature, tireless efforts and profound generosity marked all she did. But what set her apart was her clear-eyed vision of what could be achieved through her philanthropy and her singular ambition for
Templetons kick off 94th annual United Way campaign Continued from page 1 “I’m excited that we’re doing this as a couple,” added Mary. “I’m excited that we’re going to champion the next generation. “ It’s the first time in United Way’s 94-year history that a couple has led the annual campaign, which raises resources to support the organization’s bold 10-year goals—moving 250,000 out of poverty permanently, preparing at least 60-percent of all high school graduates to succeed in college and careers, and improving health and quality-of-life across North Texas. Jennifer Sampson, CEO of United Way, has absolute faith in the pair.
Dallas to be regarded as one of the world’s great
“Rich is a powerful influence and example in our
cities. Nothing diminished her fierce commitment
business community,” Sampson said, “while Mary is
to the city or the sunlight of her personality.
the driving force behind the expansion of United Way
Her steadfast commitment to United Way spanned decades. She was a longtime member of United
“ United Way is the backbone for addressing the growing needs in our community and making a difference in the lives of many.”
leadership to family leadership, a strategy we had hoped
- Rich Templeton
and planned for years ago.”
Way’s Tocqueville Society, and was recognized as a
For Mary, it’s also a personal way to honor the legacy
member of Women of Tocqueville. She generously
of two dear friends and longtime supporters of United
served as Honorary Co-Chair of United Way of
Way— philanthropist Ruth Altshuler, who died last
Metropolitan Dallas’s 90th Anniversary in 2015.
December, and Margaret McDermott, the widow of TI
Margaret, along with Mary and Rich Templeton,
Co-founder Eugene McDermott, who died in May.
championing #GiveBigDFW on November 27th, the
“They took me under their giant philanthropic wings and
with a focus on sharing and caring.
endowed the UWMD CEO's position, which became the McDermott-Templeton President and CEO in 2015. She supported the Capital Campaign for United Way’s new building and, more recently, the Unite Forever campaign. In October 2017, she received the Decades of Distinction Award. Margaret’s philanthropy was integral to arts and health care organizations and universities throughout the community. Just as she left her mark on our city in many visible ways, she also left an indelible mark on our hearts. We will miss this ray of light in our lives but will celebrate her legacy for generations to come. She touched every person and every corner of the city. We mourn her passing and will remember her in many ways as we journey forward—a journey in which she would have delighted. Yours gratefully,
Jennifer Sampson McDermott-Templeton President and CEO United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Senior Leadership Team Jennifer Sampson McDermott-Templeton President and Chief Executive Officer Susan Hoff Chief Strategy, Impact and Operations Officer Ashley Brundage Senior Vice President, Community Impact Steven Kravit Chief Technology Officer Katherine Stenesen Chief Development Officer
2 | Unite Newsletter Fall 2018
taught me what it means to give wisely,” she says. “Rich and I are inspired by the opportunity to carry on their
place the Tuesday after Thanksgiving each year. By Templeton family plans to kick off the holiday season
“I deeply admire them both for their vision and
efforts to keep making our community better.”
commitment, and am profoundly grateful for their
Plans for the annual campaign include engaging long-
to let this community down. We will raise more money
standing corporate, civic and philanthropic relationships while creating new ones with innovative digital strategies. The organization also hopes to again lead North Texas to the title of ‘Most Generous City in America’ on #GivingTuesday, the global day of giving that takes
leadership,” Sampson said. “Rich and Mary aren’t going than we did last year. I have absolutely no doubt about that.” Below Troy Aikman and Jennifer Sampson watch Mary and Rich Templeton on the screen at the United Way Awards.