Month: September 2025

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    September 8, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — For more than six decades, IM Houston—formerly known as Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston—has been a beacon of hope, unity, and service across the Bayou City. With its roots planted firmly in the belief that Houston’s diversity is its greatest strength, the organization has built bridges of dialogue, compassion, and collaboration that continue to shape lives today. On Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Hilton Americas–Houston (1600 Lamar St.), IM Houston will host its highly anticipated annual celebration. This signature event promises to be a night of community, compassion, and recognition of those who embody the organization’s enduring mission.

Honoring Service, Faith, and Compassion The evening will shine a spotlight on remarkable honorees: • Charlene Chuang, recognized for her extraordinary leadership and philanthropy. • Bishop C. Andrew Doyle of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, honored with the Spirit of Respect Award for his tireless commitment to faith and inclusivity. Co-chairing the event are Miya Shay & Rep. Gene Wu and Nihala & Shaukat Zakaria, who embody the very spirit of civic engagement and cultural unity. “IM Houston has shown us, year after year, that service is more than charity—it’s about building a stronger, more compassionate Houston,” said Rep. Gene Wu. “This year’s honorees reflect that same mission of faith in action.” A Legacy of Four Pillars IM Houston continues to impact the community through its four core service areas: • Meals on Wheels/Animeals: Providing nutritious meals—and love—to seniors and their pets. • Refugee Services: Helping newcomers achieve self-sufficiency and dignity. • Interfaith Relations: Promoting dialogue and understanding across Houston’s rich faith traditions. • Community Engagement & Volunteer Houston: Connecting thousands of volunteers to causes across 13 counties. For Houstonians like Wilbert, a Meals on Wheels client, the program is life-changing: “When the first meal came, I was hooked,” he said. “It’s not just about the food—it’s about someone caring enough to check on you.” And for refugee youth like Mohammad, the art program offers healing: “Working on a large canvas brought back many memories of Afghanistan. Some were joyful, others sad—but art gave me a way to express them. That experience made me stronger,” he shared. Powered by Sponsors and Supporters This year’s event is made possible through the generosity of sponsors who believe in IM Houston’s mission. From Presenting Sponsor Shell USA, Inc. to Gold Weaver Sponsors like Houston Style Magazine and MAREK, the wide spectrum of support underscores Houston’s commitment to unity and service. “Partnership is how Houston thrives,” said an IM Houston representative. “Every sponsor, every volunteer, every supporter helps us extend our reach and deepen our impact.” Event Details 📅 Saturday, November 1, 2025 📍 Hilton Americas–Houston, 1600 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010 ⏰ Reception: 6:00 PM | Dinner & Program: 7:00 PM ✨ Sponsorships and table opportunities are available now. Contact Chris Johnson at cjohnson@imgh.org for more details.

A Call to Action At IM Houston, the mission is clear: “When our seniors need comfort and a warm meal—we provide. When our neighbors need belonging—we welcome. When our community needs help—we serve.” To support this mission, text IMHouston to 53-555, volunteer your time, or simply spread the word. As Houston Style Magazine proudly affirms, IM Houston is proof that when faith, compassion, and action unite, the whole city rises. ✨ Houston Style Magazine is proud to serve as a Gold Weaver Sponsor and partner in celebrating IM Houston’s 60+ years of community service. More info.: imgh.org

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Jo-Carolyn Goode
editorial@stylemagazine.com
7133205611

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    September 8, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — Houston’s crown jewel of creativity is back! The Bayou City Art Festival, produced by Art Colony Association, Inc. (ACA), is set to transform Memorial Park into Houston’s biggest outdoor art gallery from Friday–Sunday, October 10–12, 2025, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM CT. This annual celebration of artistry, culture, and community promises to be bigger, bolder, and brighter than ever before. 🌟 Supporting Local Nonprofits Through Art At its core, the festival isn’t just about showcasing masterpieces—it’s about giving back. This fall, six outstanding local nonprofit organizations will benefit directly from the proceeds while also engaging festivalgoers through volunteer efforts and interactive creativity in the Active Imagination Zone. The 2025 nonprofit partners include: • ArtReach • Brave Little Company • Fresh Arts • The Health Museum • Houston Repertoire Ballet • The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Their presence ensures that every brushstroke, sculpture, and melody at the festival is tied to a larger purpose: uplifting Houston’s cultural, educational, and artistic landscape. 🎨 Featured Artist: Jonah Ballard This year’s spotlight shines on Jonah Ballard, a self-taught acrylic painter from Phoenix, Arizona, celebrated for his ethereal, dreamlike canvases awash in soft pink hues. His work is more than just art—it’s an invitation into a world of transformation, awakening, and imagination. With his distinct palette and ability to evoke reflection, Ballard’s showcase promises to be one of the festival’s most talked-about highlights. 🎶 More Than an Art Show—It’s a Festival Experience Guests can look forward to live entertainment, culinary delights from Houston’s favorite food trucks, and craft beverages scattered throughout Memorial Park. From the Wine Garden to the Craft Beer Garden, the festival offers refreshing stops to sip, savor, and socialize. For art aficionados who want the red-carpet treatment, the VIP Hospitality Lounge is a can’t-miss. Nestled under the shade of Memorial Park’s iconic trees, this exclusive space features: • Complimentary light bites, beer, and wine • Artistic décor and roaming musicians • VIP parking and early access from 11:00 AM–5:00 PM Single-day VIP passes are available for $75, with a three-day pass for $150—a worthy investment in Houston’s most immersive cultural weekend. 🎟️ Tickets & Entry Early bird online tickets are now available at bayoucityartfestival.com: • Adults: $18 ($20 after October 1) • Children (6–12): $5 • Children under 5: Free • VIP Tickets: $75/day or $150 for all three days 💡 Important Note: Physical tickets will NOT be sold at the gate. Online pre-purchased tickets are required for entry. 🌍 Why Bayou City Art Festival Matters For more than 50 years, Bayou City Art Festival has provided a stage for over 20,000 artists while raising nearly $4 million for Houston-area nonprofits. With support from the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance, corporate sponsors, and thousands of volunteers, this fall’s event is expected to attract tens of thousands of art lovers from across Texas and beyond. Mark your calendar: October 10–12, 2025. Houston’s art heartbeat will be louder than ever. Early bird online tickets are now available at bayoucityartfestival.com:

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    September 8, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — HOUSTON, TX — Texas Southern University (TSU), one of the nation’s proudest Historically Black Colleges and Universities, is entering a bold new chapter thanks to a transformative $300,000 investment from the Geneviève McMillan-Reba Stewart Foundation. This gift, matched dollar-for-dollar by TSU’s Office of Civil Rights Scholarship Matching Fund, establishes a $600,000 endowment that will provide scholarships for generations of students at the Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs. This historic endowment represents more than financial support—it is a vote of confidence in the leadership pipeline cultivated on TSU’s campus. By anchoring resources in the school that bears the names of two of America’s most distinguished public servants—Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland—this investment ensures their legacies of justice, equity, and service to humanity continue to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

A Legacy of Philanthropy Meets a Legacy of Leadership “This generous gift from the Geneviève McMillan-Reba Stewart Foundation reflects the power of philanthropy to create lasting change,” said Charlie Coleman, III, TSU’s Senior Associate Vice President of Development and Alumni Engagement. “We believe the next great political leaders of this generation are being taught right here at Texas Southern University, and this endowment affirms that promise.” The foundation, born from the vision of Geneviève McMillan and in honor of her friend, artist Reba Stewart, has spent nearly 25 years advancing civil rights, human dignity, and cultural understanding. Today, by choosing TSU, the foundation strengthens an institution that has produced barrier-breaking icons like Barbara Jordan—the first African American woman from the South elected to the U.S. House of Representatives—and Mickey Leland, a champion for global humanitarianism whose legacy continues to inspire.

More Than Scholarships: Building Leaders for a Just Future For TSU students, this endowment is more than a scholarship fund—it is a pathway to opportunity. Undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence and embody the spirit of public service will be supported in their quest to become change-makers. Kibebe Gizaw, President of the McMillan-Stewart Foundation, emphasized: “Geneviève McMillan believed the arts and education unlock understanding of our shared humanity. By investing in Texas Southern University, we prepare the next generation of leaders who will embody equality, justice, and service for all.” The scholarship will be awarded by a TSU selection committee, requiring full-time enrollment, good academic standing, and a GPA of 2.75 or higher.

Why It Matters for Houston and Beyond TSU’s Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs is not just a Houston treasure—it is a national incubator for civic leadership. The school produces graduates who lead city governments, influence public policy, and advocate for communities often left out of decision-making. With this endowment, TSU strengthens its role as an engine of equity and access. Students who might otherwise struggle financially will be empowered to focus on what matters most: learning, leading, and living up to the legacies of Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland.

How You Can Join This Legacy The McMillan-Stewart Foundation has set the bar high, but sustaining this mission requires community involvement. Houstonians and TSU alumni are invited to contribute to the endowment and join this movement for educational equity. For more information, contact TSU’s Office of Development and Alumni Engagement at advancement@tsu.edu or visit tsu.edu/give. ✨ Houston Style Magazine salutes the McMillan-Stewart Foundation, Texas Southern University, and all those who carry the torch of Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland. This investment in education is an investment in democracy, justice, and the leaders of tomorrow. ✨

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Jo-Carolyn Goode
editorial@stylemagazine.com
7133205611

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    September 8, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — A new chapter of leadership is unfolding at Texas Southern University (TSU) as the institution proudly appoints Dr. Paula L. Jackson as Interim Athletics Director. With over two decades of groundbreaking experience in collegiate athletics leadership, fundraising, and student-athlete advocacy, Dr. Jackson’s arrival signals both stability and fresh momentum for the TSU Tigers and their storied athletics program. A Legacy of Leadership Across HBCUs Dr. Jackson’s reputation as a nationally recognized athletics executive precedes her. Having served in senior leadership roles at Hampton University, Norfolk State University, Mississippi Valley State University, and Lincoln University-Missouri, her career is defined by excellence, innovation, and unwavering advocacy for student-athletes. She is also the visionary founder of the Minority Trailblazers in Sports Conference, a national platform elevating minority sports professionals while advancing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) education and professional development. Her dynamic career has also touched the professional ranks, with five seasons in public relations and gameday operations for the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, cementing her as a leader with wide-ranging impact. A Vision for Texas Southern’s Next Era “I am excited to join the Texas Southern University family as the Interim Athletics Director and to contribute to its proud legacy of excellence,” said Dr. Jackson. “Texas Southern is uniquely positioned to be a national leader in the evolving landscape of college athletics. I look forward to collaborating with our student-athletes, coaches, staff, alumni, and community partners to build sustainable success and prepare our athletes to excel both on the field and beyond.” President J.W. Crawford III echoed that confidence: “Texas Southern University is committed to ensuring stability, vision, and leadership for our student-athletes. Dr. Paula Jackson is well prepared to step into this role. Her record of achievement, innovative approach, and ability to forge powerful partnerships will ensure continuity and momentum within our athletics department.” Championing Innovation and Student Success Among her many innovations, Dr. Jackson is credited with the creation of the acclaimed “Classroom on the Road” initiative—an academic lifeline for student-athletes balancing travel and coursework. Lauded nationally as a best practice, this initiative exemplifies her belief that athletic performance and academic achievement must go hand in hand. She also spearheaded the first HBCU NIL Masterclass Summit at Norfolk State University, connecting student-athletes with education, networking, and real-world NIL opportunities. These efforts have directly resulted in student-athletes securing agreements, expanding community engagement, and reshaping what success off the field looks like for HBCU sports. Building Champions On and Off the Field From securing multi-million-dollar partnerships to establishing new intercollegiate sports programs—including women’s soccer, men’s lacrosse, and women’s triathlon at Hampton University—Dr. Jackson’s tenure reflects a track record of impact. Under her leadership, Lincoln University-Missouri celebrated two NCAA National Championships in a single year, proof that her strategies produce results at the highest levels of competition. Her academic pedigree is equally inspiring: a Ph.D. in Education with specialization in Athletic Administration from Northcentral University, an MBA from Clark Atlanta University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast and Print Journalism from Southern University. A Defining Moment for TSU Houston Style Magazine readers, with Dr. Paula L. Jackson at the helm, TSU Athletics is positioned not only to preserve its legacy but to expand it—preparing student-athletes to thrive in classrooms, boardrooms, and stadiums alike. Her appointment reflects TSU’s broader commitment to equity, innovation, and excellence, ensuring that the Tigers remain a beacon of pride for Houston and the national HBCU community. As Texas Southern University steps boldly into the future, one thing is clear: with Dr. Jackson’s leadership, the best is yet to come for Tiger Nation.

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Jo-Carolyn Goode
editorial@stylemagazine.com
7133205611

By Francis Page,I Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    September 8, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — Over 200 Small Businesses Connect with 40+ Lenders and Community Partners

Houston, TX — What began as a simple conversation transformed into a powerful moment for Houston’s entrepreneurial community. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) SCORE Mentors Houston, in collaboration with Bishop James Dixon Ministries and SBA leaders Mark Winchester and Winston Labbé, hosted the SBA Lender Matchmaker at The Community of Faith Church. This dynamic event brought essential resources, funding opportunities, and expert guidance directly to small business owners who are the heartbeat of Houston’s economy. With more than 200 small business owners in attendance and over 40 lenders and community partners represented, the Lender Matchmaker created a vibrant space where connections blossomed into possibilities. From learning how to scale businesses to securing the capital needed for growth, the event was a testament to collaboration at its finest.

Fueling Small Business Success The event featured an impressive lineup of SBA lenders and community resource partners ready to provide solutions for businesses at every stage of development. Lending leaders such as Unity National Bank, Comerica Bank, Amegy Bank, Cadence Bank, Frost Bank, Regions Bank, Veritex Community Bank, and Bank of America were on hand, alongside community reinvestment champions like DreamSpring, LiftFund, and PeopleFund. Special recognition goes to Wallis Bank, the refreshment sponsor, for ensuring attendees stayed energized as they networked and forged valuable partnerships.

Building Houston’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem In addition to lenders, the event highlighted a wide array of community resource partners, including the University of Houston Small Business Development Center, Houston-Galveston Area Council, Houston FinTech, Harris County Treasurer Dr. Carla Wyatt, Port Houston, Bread of Life, Inc., United Way of Greater Houston, and the HISD Community Board. These organizations are working tirelessly to ensure local businesses don’t just survive — they thrive.

Civic and Community Impact Local civic organizations such as the NAACP, Top Ladies of Distinction, Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club, and the Acres Home Chamber of Commerce NCNW also joined forces to uplift minority and women-owned businesses. Community voices like William Johnson Jr. of Johnson Consulting, Jeremy Craft of BlackBook Houston, Paul Guillory of AT&T, and Michael Crockett of C&S Cares demonstrated how grassroots efforts combine with national resources to create real impact.

A Stronger Future for Houston Entrepreneurs The SBA Lender Matchmaker was more than just an event — it was a movement. It showcased how collaboration, mentorship, and access to capital can strengthen Houston’s small business ecosystem. Events like this remind us that entrepreneurship is not a solo journey; it’s a community endeavor powered by connection, innovation, and opportunity. As Houston continues to grow as a hub for business excellence, initiatives like the SBA SCORE Mentors’ Lender Matchmaker ensure that small businesses remain at the center of progress. With resources, lenders, and leaders committed to their success, the future for Houston’s entrepreneurs has never looked brighter.

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Jo-Carolyn Goode
editorial@stylemagazine.com
7133205611