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railblazing ballet superstar Misty Copeland, the first Black woman promoted to Principal Dancer at American Ballet Theatre and one of the most influential artists in the world of dance, will headline the 26th Annual Destiny Award Luncheon, benefiting St.
Philip’s School & Community Center, on Friday, February 27, 2026 at the Omni Dallas Hotel. The student showcase is from 10:30-11:15 a.m., and the luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m.
Serving as St. Philip’s largest fundraiser of the year, the event will feature an unforgettable conversation with NBA Hall of Famer Dr. J – the Parrish Family Destiny Award Speaker – moderated by Olympic Gold medalist and track and field Hall of Famer Jackie Joyner-Kersee.
Serving as St. Philip’s largest annual fundraiser, the Destiny Award Luncheon will feature an unforgettable conversation with Misty Copeland, the Parrish Family Destiny Award Speaker, moderated by Lael & Peter Brodsky. The conversation will explore Copeland’s journey of artistic excellence, leadership, and advocacy, reflecting resilience, creativity, and purpose.
In addition, the prestigious Mona & Dave Munson Humanitarian Award will be presented to Fredye Factor, honoring her decades of philanthropic leadership, mentorship, and tireless commitment to strengthening nonprofits and community life in Dallas.
The morning will begin with a student showcase celebrating the talents and achievements of St. Philip’s scholars, followed by the luncheon program and conversation in the Omni Dallas Hotel’s ballroom.
Leadership for the 2026 Destiny Award Luncheon includes:
- Luncheon Co-Chairs: Pamela Wills-Ward & Mitchell Ward
- Underwriting Chairs: The Honorable Monica Purdy & Toby Purdy and Shonn Evans
Brown & Maurice A. West - Speaker Sponsors: Jewel and Roland Parrish
These leaders play an essential role in driving community engagement and philanthropic support for St. Philip’s signature event.
The 2026 Destiny Award Luncheon will stand as a milestone celebration, honoring eight decades of St. Philip’s unwavering commitment to education, empowerment, and service in South Dallas. Now in its 26th year, this signature gathering will highlight the grand opening of
the Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center, a transformative space designed to amplify student voices and expand community access to the arts. Guided by the theme “Destiny Takes Center Stage,” the luncheon will showcase the enduring impact of St. Philip’s through dynamic storytelling, inspiring student performances, and heartfelt tributes from community leaders and honorees.
Funds raised at the Destiny Award Luncheon directly support St. Philip’s broad range of community programs, which serve more than 10,000 neighbors annually. These services include senior transportation, hunger relief through Aunt Bette’s Community Pantry, neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing initiatives, and academic enrichment and athletic programming for over 3,000 children each year.
Sponsorship levels range from $4,000–$100,000, offering corporate and individual partners meaningful engagement and visibility in support of transformational community impact. For more information, visit our website.
