Gratitude: Our 2025–26 Women’s Initiative Theme
The 2025–26 United Way Women’s Initiative team has chosen Gratitude as this year’s theme. Together, we’ll be more mindful of
the many ways gratitude strengthens connection—within our community and within ourselves.
We’re inspired by the Cratchit family in A Christmas Carol, who found joy and thankfulness even in humble circumstances. At
their Christmas table, Bob Cratchit declares, “A Merry Christmas to us all, my dears. God bless us!”—a sentiment echoed by
Tiny Tim: “God bless us, every one!”
As we move through this season, may we also pause to give thanks for our blessings and share that spirit of gratitude with
others.
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Bright Beginnings: Building Strong Foundations for Houston’s Children
For more than two decades, United Way Bright Beginnings has been transforming early childhood education
across Greater Houston—helping children from underserved communities enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed.
By the numbers:
50+ Bright Beginnings centers and 26 family childcare homes across the region 300+ teachers earning a Child Development Associate credential More than 15,000 children served since the program’s inception 24,000 hours of free coaching and professional development delivered
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The impact is clear: Bright Beginnings alumni consistently outperform peers on achievement tests, maintain higher attendance
rates, and demonstrate stronger social and emotional skills—helping families build brighter futures.
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Meet Women’s Initiative Members
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Technical Marketing Manager
SLB
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Senior Advisor, Services Category Management
Phillips 66
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Assistant Vice President, Community Relations
United Way of Greater Houston
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Ronnie is the recipient of the
2025 Outstanding Achievement in
Philanthropy in Houston Award, recognizing her leadership and commitment
to community impact.
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Curiosity Meets Community: AI & Healthcare with Dr. Kirsten Ostherr
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The Women’s Initiative recently hosted a thought-provoking evening exploring the promise, progress, and precautions of
artificial intelligence in healthcare.
We were honored to welcome Dr. Kirsten Ostherr, Director of the Medical Humanities Research Institute at Rice University, for
a wide-ranging conversation on AI’s potential—from accelerating diagnostics and improving outcomes to the critical safeguards
needed around equity, privacy, and human oversight. Her work highlights how complex challenges are best addressed by
integrating humanists, artists, social scientists, engineers, and clinicians.
A heartfelt thank-you to Dr. Reginald DesRoches, President of Rice University, and Paula DesRoches, Women’s Initiative
Steering Committee member, for graciously opening their home and making this meaningful dialogue possible.
These are the conversations that move us forward—where curiosity meets community and learning sparks action.
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Rappel for a Reason Shatters Records: $226,820 Raised
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With ropes in hand and hearts full of purpose,
our community came together in an
extraordinary way for Rappel for a
Reason—raising a record-breaking $226,820 to
support families across Greater Houston.
Leading the way were our top three
fundraisers:
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Walter Johnson, founder of Amegy Bank, who
rappelled at age 90—proving courage has no
age limit
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Ryan Hightower, Amegy Bank
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Haley Eakin, United Way of Greater Houston
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This milestone wouldn’t have been possible
without everyone who attended, donated,
volunteered, or helped spread the word.
Together, we’re helping neighbors land on
their feet—and stay there.
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Wrap & Wine: Over 750 Books Donated for Bright Beginnings
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The Women’s Initiative Wrap & Wine event
was a celebration of generosity, connection,
and purpose. Together, participants donated
and wrapped more than 750 books for children
enrolled in United Way Bright Beginnings.
Guests enjoyed delicious bites and exceptional
wines curated from the personal collection of
United Way President—and sommelier
extraordinaire—Amanda McMillian, creating the
perfect backdrop for welcoming new members and
strengthening community.
One especially meaningful moment: hearing
about a teacher at Tiny Toes Academy who was
once a Bright Beginnings student herself—a
powerful reminder of the program’s lasting
impact across generations.
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated,
and volunteered. Your generosity will help
foster a love of reading and brighter futures
for children across Greater Houston.
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Celebrating Community & Cheer: Women’s Initiative ADT Holiday Party
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Our annual Women’s Initiative ADT Holiday Party was nothing short of magical. Hosted by member Ann Deaton in her beautiful
home, the evening was filled
with warmth, music, and inspiration.
Guests enjoyed stunning carols performed by HSPVA students and uplifting remarks from Sara Hallam, Dr. Angel Harris, Amanda
McMillian, and Cassandra McZeal, reminding us of the power of leadership and community.
A special thank-you to our Events Committee “elves” for creating such a joyful evening—and to The Bearded Baker for the
beautifully decorated cookies that added a sweet finishing touch.
Here’s to another year of connection, empowerment, and celebration within the Women’s Initiative.
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Gratitude on Every Page:
Sara’s 2025 WI Book Picks
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As we embrace our gratitude theme and the reflective pace of the season, explore Sara’s 2025 Women’s Initiative book
recommendations—perfect for inspiration and thoughtful moments this holiday season.
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Autobiography: The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom is a true story of hiding Jews during WWII,
being arrested, and surviving a concentration camp. The book highlights themes of faith, forgiveness, courage, and the
power of hope even in the darkest circumstances.
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Biography: The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore tells the true story of Elizabeth
Packard, a 19th century woman wrongfully committed to an asylum by her husband for speaking her mind. The book follows her
fight for freedom and her groundbreaking advocacy for women's and patient's rights.
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Historical Fiction: The Frozen River is a historical novel about a midwife in 18th century Maine
who becomes involved in investigating a suspicious death after a man is found frozen in a river. As she uncovers the
truth, she confronts community secrets, danger, and her own strength.
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Contemporary Fiction: The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is a heartwarming novel about an
82-year-old widower, Fred Fife, who is mistaken for another man and ends up living in a nursing home. Fred forms
relationships, brings kindness to those around him, and navigates grief and redemption.
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With gratitude and admiration,
The United Way Women’s Initiative Leadership Team
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Date: January 31 – February 1, 2026
Location: Rice University & The Houstonian
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Women’s Initiative Wine & Chocolate
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Date: February 12, 2026 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Texas Wine School
Formal
invitation coming soon!
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Date: March 6, 2026
Location: Woodlands Waterway Marriott
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LINC / Young Leaders / WI Volunteer Event
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Date: April 11, 2026
Children and grandchildren welcome, more
details coming soon!
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Stay current on events and happenings, connect with fellow members, and learn more about the impact we make together in our
Women's Initiative LinkedIn group. The Women’s Initiative Steering Committee is in the process of inviting all members to the
LinkedIn page. If you have not joined yet, please do!
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About the Women’s Initiative
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Women’s Initiative brings passionate and influential professionals and community leaders together to support the work of
United Way of Greater Houston. This powerful network of women helps our neighbors land on their feet—and stay there.
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