Ben Swanger
4 abr 2025
The event helped raise $1 million to expand high-quality early childhood education across the region.
In late February, North Texas notables gathered at The Ritz-Carlton Dallas for the Educational First Steps Gala. A record-breaking $1 million was raised at the event to support early childhood education.
Guests included Hillwood Founder Ross Perot Jr., Mavericks Head Coach Jason Kidd, Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Mae Parker, and more. The evening was highlighted by a discussion between President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, moderated by Ken Hersh, president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center.
The event was co-chaired by Kim Korenvaes Stein, an investor relations specialist with Financial Services Capital, and fashion influencer Rochelle Gores. Honorary chairs were former Dallas mayor Ron Kirk and former Fort Worth mayor Betsy Price.
“We are incredibly grateful to our gala chairs, sponsors, and generous supporters who believe in the power of early learning,” said Dominique McCain, EFS President and CEO. “The extraordinary conversation with President and Mrs. Bush truly underscored why this work is so important—ensuring every child, regardless of ZIP code, has access to quality early education.”
EFS partners with PNC Bank, which sponsored the event. “Since 2004, PNC’s Grow Up Great has helped prepare children from birth through age five for success in school and life,” PNC Regional President Brendan McGuire said. “We invest in programs, resources, and experiences that establish a strong foundation for children in North Texas. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, ultimately contributing to a stronger community.”
Other sponsors included The Rochelle Gores Family, Hedgeserv Corp., The Addy Foundation, and Hillwood. The event honored The Addy Foundation and The Sid W. Richardson Foundation with the Early Childhood Champion Awards.