Celebrating Leadership: Dallas City Council Honors LGBTQ+ Community Pioneers
In a vibrant recognition of dedication and leadership, the Dallas City Council celebrated Pride Month by hosting the 2025 Pride in Excellence Awards Reception on June 4, 2025. Spearheaded by Council Members Omar Narvaez and Chad West, the event spotlighted remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions in various sectors such as business, civic engagement, public service, arts & culture, and philanthropy within the LGBTQ+ community.
Kirk Myers-Hill Pioneer in PRIDE Award
Odessa Jenkins
Odessa ‘OJ’ Jenkins, a trailblazer in women’s tackle football, boasts an impressive 91–5 career record, securing her status as the winningest head coach and a seven-time national champion. As the CEO of the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC), Jenkins champions visibility and equity for women and girls in sports. Her influence extends globally as a speaker and leadership coach, and she is the founder of nonprofits like Got Her Back.
Jenkins’ leadership journey includes serving as CEO of Bonfire, disrupting the tech industry at YourCause, and participating in the NFL’s Women’s Careers in Football Forum. She is also part of the Dove Body Confident Collective, working alongside icons such as Billie Jean King and Venus Williams.
The Adam Medrano Excellence in Leadership Award
Ahmad Goree
Ahmad Goree, a dedicated public servant, has been pivotal in advocating for social justice, notably in the case of Muhlaysia Booker, a Black transwoman murdered in Dallas. His efforts facilitated a 50-year sentence for Booker’s killer. Goree has also championed voting rights for the LGBTQ community and played a key role in establishing the Police Chief’s Anti-Hate Advisory Council in Dallas.
He continues to serve on several advisory boards and has been recognized for his leadership by institutions such as the Dallas Business Journal and the North Texas LGBT Chamber.
Outstanding Leadership in Community Impact
Kelly Drake
Kelly Drake, a long-time resident of Dallas, has dedicated his life to advocacy, particularly for those living with HIV/AIDS. He has served in various leadership roles and continues to mentor individuals navigating the disability process. Drake is active in the Dallas County Democratic Party and various community boards.
Outstanding Leadership in Arts and Culture
Ruth Thunderhawk
Ruth Thunderhawk, a two-spirit member of the Northern Cheyenne nation, volunteers with MMIW Texas Rematriate to support Indigenous communities affected by the MMIW/P crisis. Thunderhawk’s work focuses on community-building and ensuring the inclusion of 2SLGBTQ+ voices in healing processes.
Outstanding Leadership in Business
Michelle Carpenter
Chef Michelle Carpenter, trained under Tokyo sushi masters, has made significant contributions to Dallas’s culinary scene. Her ventures, including Zen Sushi and Restaurant Beatrice, reflect her heritage and commitment to sustainability. She is a James Beard Foundation Finalist and has launched the Women in Restaurants Leadership Program.
Outstanding Leadership in Health and Human Services
The Senior Source
Since 1961, The Senior Source has been an advocate for older adults in Dallas, offering programs on elder safety, caregiver support, and more. Committed to the LGBTQ+ community, it collaborates with organizations like the Coalition for Aging LGBT to provide vital resources and education.
Outstanding Leadership in Public Service Award
Marisa Gonzales
With over 25 years in public health, Marisa Gonzales has been instrumental in mobilizing health services for underserved communities. Her work spans various disease responses and public health education, emphasizing disaster preparedness and community outreach.
Outstanding Leadership in Philanthropy
Paul Von Wupperfeld
Paul Von Wupperfeld’s three decades of advocacy have significantly impacted the LGBTQ+ community. He has held leadership roles in various organizations, including the AIDS Interfaith Network and the Resource Center, and continues to champion health and educational initiatives.
Lifetime Mensch Legacy Award
David Taffet
David Taffet is a revered journalist and advocate within the LGBTQ+ community. His work with Dallas Voice and Lambda Weekly has been pivotal in elevating LGBTQ+ voices. Taffet’s dedication to equality has earned him multiple accolades, including the Raymond Kuchling Humanitarian Award.
To watch a replay of the reception, click here.
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