North Texas Disability Chamber

05/29/2026

Partnerships With Purpose 💜

This past Wednesday was an incredible afternoon at the North Texas Disability Chamber’s 2nd Annual Business & Nonprofit Reception!

Leaders from business, nonprofit, government, and community organizations came together to build relationships, share ideas, and explore ways to create greater impact through collaboration.

A special thank you to our sponsors, speakers, volunteers, attendees, and the Eisemann Center team for making this event possible.

Together, we’re proving that meaningful partnerships drive meaningful change.

Stay tuned for future opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow!

Photo Credits: Sam Hsu Photography

05/21/2026

Dylan M. Rafaty welcomes Harrison Blair, president and CEO of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, to explore leadership, commerce, and collaboration through a lens of accessibility and inclusion. Harrison shares rich family history and personal stories that shaped his community-driven approach to leadership and his vision for inclusive economic development in North Texas.

05/21/2026

Please welcome our newest Community Partner, City of Southlake!

“The City of Southlake is proud to join the North Texas Disability Chamber in alignment with the City’s mission to provide world-class municipal services that enhance the quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors.” - Stacey Black, Assistant City Manager

Interested in learning more about becoming a Chamber Partner? Please visit us at www.ntxdc.org/joinus.

05/19/2026

Exciting News!

We are excited to see our founder, Dylan M. Rafaty, to be featured as one of the featured guests at the upcoming DallasMeetup event at Texas Live Arlington, Texas!

For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.dallasmeetup.com/dallasmeetup-at-texas-live Let’s go!!

Dylan Rafaty of North Texas Disability Chamber to be featured at DallasMeetup

05/14/2026

Please welcome our newest Activist Partner, Broadway Dallas!

“Broadway Dallas is dedicated to connecting our community to theatre. Joining the North Texas Disability Chamber aligns with our commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Access by elevating the voices of people with disabilities, gaining insight into how we can better serve people with disabilities and strengthening our position as a pioneering leader in our industry.” - Mike Richman, Vice President of Marketing and Patron Services

Interested in learning more about becoming a Chamber Partner? Please visit us at www.ntxdc.org/joinus.

05/07/2026

Please welcome our newest Activist Partner, Bank of America!

“Bank of America is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities by fostering an inclusive workplace and advancing accessibility for all by partnering with organizations that promote universal opportunity. Through comprehensive efforts, including inclusive hiring practices, employee networks, and community partnerships, we dismantle barriers enabling individuals to thrive both professionally and within their communities.” - Jennifer Chandler, President, Bank of America Dallas

Interested in learning more about becoming a Chamber Partner? Please visit us at www.ntxdc.org/joinus.

05/06/2026

Our next episode of the Let’s Work Inclusively podcast will feature Harrison L. Blair, President & CEO of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce.

This conversation will explore leadership, commerce, and the power of collaboration in shaping stronger and more connected communities. We’re honored to feature Harrison and his indomitable spirit that radiates joy, positivity, and purpose.

Stay tuned — the episode is scheduled to release the third Thursday morning this month.

05/04/2026

⚡ Catalyst in Action

We are thrilled to announce that Annette Underwood will be the recipient of the 2026 Cynt Marshall Catalyst for Inclusion Award; a recognition of bold leadership that moves accessibility and inclusion from intention to impact.

About the Award:
The Cynt Marshall Catalyst for Inclusion Award honors individuals who ignite meaningful change by advancing inclusive practices across business and community. Inspired by the leadership of Cynt Marshall, this award recognizes those who lead with courage, elevate others, and create pathways where everyone can belong and thrive.

“Annette represents what it means to be a true catalyst—turning vision into action and ensuring inclusion is not an initiative, but a standard. Her leadership is creating real momentum for lasting change.” - Dylan M. Rafaty, President & CEO

Join us in congratulating Annette as we look forward to formally recognizing her at the NTXDC Awards Luncheon on Thursday, September 3, 2026 in Plano, TX.

04/30/2026

A Moment Worth Celebrating. A Leader Worth Recognizing.

We are thrilled to announce that State Representative Mihaela E. Plesa (House District 70) has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Richard “Rick” Grady Public Service Award.

This recognition was a true surprise and one that is deeply deserved.

Representative Plesa continues to lead with purpose, championing policies that expand accessibility and strengthen disability inclusion across Texas. Her unwavering commitment to advancing legislative solutions that uplift all Texans reflects the very spirit of this award.

About the Richard “Rick” Grady Public Service Award:

The Richard “Rick” Grady Public Service Award honors public leaders who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community impact through service, advocacy, and leadership—particularly in advancing accessibility, inclusion, and equitable opportunity for individuals with disabilities.

“Representative Plesa exemplifies what it means to lead with both conviction and compassion. Her work is not just about policy; it’s about people. It’s about ensuring every Texan has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and thrive. This recognition reflects her commitment to building a more accessible and inclusive future, and we are proud to stand alongside her in that mission.” - Dylan M. Rafaty, President & CEO

Please join us in congratulating Representative Plesa as she will be formally honored at the NTXDC Awards Luncheon on Thursday, September 3, 2026 in Plano, TX.

Let’s continue to celebrate leaders who move our communities forward with intention, impact, and inclusion.

04/28/2026

An exciting event is coming next month:
2026 Business & Nonprofit Reception - Presnted by Communities Foundation of Texas

Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts - Richardson, Texas
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM

The Business & Nonprofit Reception brings corporate and nonprofit leaders together at this dynamic event to explore impactful partnerships, share innovative solutions, and forge meaningful connections. It’s where collaboration begins — and where ideas turn into action.

Join us for plenty of networking opportunities, a meaningful fireside chat moderated by Ben Swanger of D CEO Magazine, and the reception will be led by Emcee Nick Marino Jr. from CFT's Center for Business Impact.

Purchase tickets today: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-business-and-nonprofit-reception

The 2026 Business & Nonprofit Receptions provides opportunities to explore impactful partnerships, share innovative solutions, and forge meaningful connections.