The Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS) opened this weekend at the Hilton Anatole with a spirit of sisterhood and a showcase of excellence. Branded as a “power-packed two-day conference promoting professional success within a sisterhood gathering” (WLS Summit), the event delivered on its promise to bring together “the most accomplished, brightest, baddest professionals in the nation” through intimate, interactive sessions and inspirational plenary conversations.

The 2025 Summit was chaired by T he Honorable Helen Giddings, a towering figure in Texas civic life whose leadership legacy framed the weekend with purpose.

A Rising Star: The Lotus Club’s Deme

The opening night included the presentation of the Rising Star Award to Deme Jackson, co-founder of The Lotus Club. The Lotus Club has become a safe haven and career accelerator for Black women navigating unemployment, layoffs, or career transitions—providing mentorship, community, and tools to step back into leadership roles with confidence.

Deme’s recognition set the tone for a Summit committed to both legacy and renewal: lifting women who’ve paved the way while spotlighting those creating new pathways forward.

The program’s centerpiece was a fireside chat featuring Summit Chair Helen Giddings and Kimberly Bizor-Tolbert, Dallas’ first Black woman to serve as City Manager. Moderated by NBC-5 anchor Brittney Johnson alongside Wayne White, President & CEO of the Communities Foundation of Texas, the conversation embodied the tone of the entire evening: Black women affirming, supporting, and celebrating each other.

The moment grew emotional when attorney DeMetris Sampson, Esq. introduced Tolbert with such heartfelt admiration that the City Manager was moved to tears. Taking the stage, Tolbert joked that while composing herself.

The next time you want to call DeMetris to do an introduction, make sure you have a tissue box.

What unfolded on stage felt less like a scripted program and more like a sacred exchange—“girl talk” rooted in legacy, love, and manifestation. The bond between Giddings and Tolbert radiated through the room, a living reminder of how community uplifts and sustains women in leadership. As they reflected on Tolbert’s historic rise to become Dallas City Manager, the conversation carried both the weight of obstacles overcome and the joy of doors opened for those who will follow. One of the most moving reflections came when Tolbert recalled the day her appointment was announced—January 22nd, the birthday of her late grandfather. It was her grandfather who first urged her to pursue public service, and in that divine alignment, the community witnessed not just a career milestone, but the manifestation of a generational calling fulfilled.

Their candid exchange underscored the Summit’s heartbeat: legacy leaders opening space for new ones, not through formality, but through authenticity and shared wisdom.

Saturday: Panels That Powered the Summit

Saturday expanded the energy with an entire day of plenary sessions, panels, and intimate discussions. Highlights included:

  • Opening Plenary: Creating a Power Plan for Your Personal Brand with Sheryl Adkins-Green.
  • Economic Insight: It’s the Economy, People… led by Francis Smith-Dean and moderated by DeMetris Sampson.
  • Entrepreneurship: A blueprint session with Alexis Kerr, Cheryl Polote-Williamson, and Deseri Kelley.
  • Campaign College: With Mayor Rachel Proctor, Judge Elizabeth Frizell, and Councilmember Lorie Blair encouraging women to run for office.
  • Collecting Art for Joy and Wealth: A vibrant conversation featuring Dr. Roslyn Walker and other Black arts leaders.
  • Women Empowering Women Luncheon: Headlined by NASA astronaut Dr. Jeanette Epps, who inspired attendees with her journey to the stars.
  • Rooted & Rising: Led by Deme and Mirasha Brown of The Lotus Club, aimed at future women leaders.
  • Closing Plenary: And Still We Rise: Leading. Lifting. Learning. with Algenita Scott Davis and Katrice Hardy, CEO of The Marshall Project.

Why It Matters

The Women’s Leadership Summit wasn’t just about professional development—it was about Black women creating spaces for each other to thrive. From Helen Giddings’ steady hand as Summit Chair to Kimberly Tolbert’s historic appointment as City Manager, from Deme Jackson’s grassroots leadership through The Lotus Club to Dr. Jeanette Epps’ global impact as an astronaut, the Summit spotlighted the full arc of leadership: legacy, resilience, and rising voices. In a ballroom filled with affirmations, sisterhood, and laughter through tears, one truth stood tall: Dallas women are leading with power, lifting with intention, and building legacies that will echo for generations.

📰 From Your Dallas Weekly Family: We may use AI tools behind the scenes to lighten the load on everyday tasks, but the heart of our reporting is always human. Every story you read is researched, written, and edited by our team—rooted in community, accountability, and care.

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