When I reflect on my journey with FGI Dallas, gratitude is the word that comes up again and again.
This January, I officially stepped into the role of Regional Director for FGI Dallas for 2026 & 2027. It’s such an honor that feels both deeply personal and profoundly meaningful. When first joining FGI over ten years ago, I never would have imagined that I'd serve on its board, or ultimately serve as its Regional Director.
As a proud member and just over four years serving on the Board so far, FGI has shaped my professional life in ways I could have never fully anticipated. It has been a space for growth, connection, learning, and inspiration, and I’m incredibly thankful for the community that continues to make this chapter so special. Reflecting on these milestones, I realize that my journey as FGI Dallas Regional Director is woven through every experience.
Stepping into this role isn’t just about a title. For me, it’s about stewardship, about caring for something that has given me so much, and helping guide it thoughtfully into what’s next. This marks a new stage in my journey as the Regional Director of FGI Dallas, giving fresh meaning to my leadership.
Leading with Clarity, Purpose, and Heart
This year, my focus is on strategic positioning with intention. That means ensuring FGI Dallas continues to deliver exceptional value to our members, while also making our impact more visible, more understood, and more resonant within our market and beyond it. Moreover, my journey as FGI Dallas Regional Director motivates me to lead with clarity and purpose.
We already do extraordinary work. There’s real power in what happens when fashion, beauty, art, and design come together under one community. The opportunity ahead lies in amplifying that story while also returning to our fundamentals: listening more closely to our members, creating inspired and relevant programming, and cultivating fresh partnerships that reflect the evolving creative landscape. All of these efforts reflect the vision of my journey as Regional Director for FGI Dallas as we grow our community.
At its core, FGI has always been about people. And that remains the heartbeat of everything we’re building.
Strengthening the Foundation for the Future
Behind the scenes, we’re also being intentional about how we operate. We’re strengthening our infrastructure, embracing data, and leveraging AI to help us make smarter, more strategic decisions, so we can better serve our members and grow sustainably. And I'm ever so excited about it!
A major priority remains elevating our annual Scholarship Awards, allowing us to raise even more funds to support the education of future fashion and design leaders. Investing in the next generation is not only vital, it’s one of the most meaningful ways we can ensure the future of our industry remains vibrant, inclusive, and innovative. These priorities are essential threads in my journey as FGI Dallas Regional Director, reinforcing our mission.
A Board That Inspires
This vision would not be possible without an exceptional Board, and I’m continually energized by the leadership, creativity, and commitment of this talented group. For me, collaboration with this board is a highlight of my journey as Regional Director of FGI Dallas.
- Marilyn Stewart, Secretary
- Keith Harley and Tina Adams-Mason, Membership Co-Chairs
- Ginger Hartford, PR & Sponsorship
- Dr. Jason Stanford, Communications
- Jenn Hill, Social Media
- Stephen Swetish and Jason Gilmore, Programming Co-Chairs
- Nerissa Von Helpenstill, Programming Liaison
- Taisa Baucum, Marketing Chair
- Sirisha Reddy and Lori Caplin, Scholarship Co-Chairs
Working alongside such thoughtful and driven leaders makes this role incredibly rewarding. As part of my journey as Regional Director of FGI Dallas, I am grateful for the inspiration from this board.
Moving Forward, Together
Above all, our commitment is to meaningful connection. We’re here to spark collaboration, partnership, and opportunity, so every member feels engaged, supported, and inspired by what we’re building at FGI Dallas. Moving forward, I invite you to join me in my journey as Regional Director of FGI Dallas, working together toward a bright future.
Stay connected with FGI Dallas in these ways:
- Learn more about FGI
- Follow FGI Dallas on Instagram
- Join FGI Dallas
I’m genuinely excited for what lies ahead. Thank you for being part of this journey, for showing up, and for believing in the power of community. I’m grateful to lead alongside you, and even more grateful to grow together!
Yours in Style,
