Toasting to 100 years of philanthropy, volunteerism and community engagement, the Junior League of Dallas is hosting its centennial celebration this spring. Leading the charge with grit and grace, this group of women is ready for the next chapter. We caught up with co-chairs Andrea Cheek and Margo Goodwin and JLD President Christa Sanford to learn more.
JLD members have been carrying out a legacy of leadership throughout the past 100 years.
This is an incredible milestone for the JLD as it honors the first 100 years and gears up for the next 100. Can you tell us a bit about what it means to you to be in this leadership position during such a pivotal year?
CS: Serving as the centennial president for this incredible organization is humbling. Giving back to the JLD in this way is a small act in comparison to how the League has impacted my life over the last 15 years.
JLD has worked in partnership with fellow nonprofits for the greater good of the community.
You have been a member of JLD for several years now. What would you say has been your favorite part?
MG: I have been fortunate to do lots of different things—some I knew I could do, and some I had no idea I could do—but somehow the League inspires you to reach a bit further, try new things, study the situation and do what you think is best. That is very empowering and has helped me in the rest of my endeavors since then.
Members devoting their time and talent.
Can you expand a bit more about some of the exciting celebrations planned?
AC: Oh my! We have great plans to kick every event, large or small, up a notch as befitting our centennial. April 21 will see our Milestones Luncheon with Martha Stewart as featured speaker and honoring Laura Bush as our Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and Veletta Forsythe Lill as our Sustainer of the Year. That same week, we will have our gala celebrating all our wonderful donors, members and friends with an elegant dinner and lively dance band. We will celebrate our actual birthday on May 4 at our headquarters, with a good old-fashioned birthday party.
Centennial co-chair Margo Goodwin, JLD President Christa Sanford and centennial co-chair Andrea Cheek
What has been the most treasured lesson you have learned?
CS: My focus when joining the League was on volunteering, but the relationships that I built and the opportunities to develop as a leader have changed my life. Even in my work now as a partner in a law firm, every day I am applying the training that I received as a JLD member.
Photography by: COURTESY OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DALLAS
