FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Generation Hope Celebrates First Dallas Graduates—Honoring Student Parents Powering the Future Workforce
DALLAS, TX — May 8, 2026 — Generation Hope, a national nonprofit providing direct support, advocacy, and research for student parents in college, will celebrate its first class of Dallas–Fort Worth Scholar Program graduates at a Graduation Banquet on May 29 at 6 p.m. at the Dallas Entrepreneur Center at RedBird Mall—a defining moment for student parents, their families, and the future workforce in North Texas.
Since its founding, Generation Hope has supported more than 500 student parents and celebrated more than 270 degrees earned, each one expanding pathways to long-term economic mobility. These Scholars—student parents like Amari Simmons, whose story is a testament to what becomes possible with the right support—have balanced college, work, and caregiving, often all at once.
The evening will also recognize the partners who make this work possible. Junior League of Dallas will receive the Community Partner of the Year Award, Bank of America will receive the Corporate Partner of the Year Award, and Renee Scott, AVP and Operations Consultant at Bank of America, will be honored as Volunteer of the Year—recognition that reflects the organization's deep commitment to student parent success in the Dallas-Fort Worth community.
“This is a special moment for our graduates and an important milestone for Generation Hope’s work in Dallas,” said Nicole Lynn Lewis, Founder & CEO of Generation Hope and author of Student Parent. “Our Scholars are entering the workforce with talent, determination, and lived experience that strengthens every industry they touch. When we invest in student parents, we’re helping to build a more inclusive and competitive economy.”
For more information on the Graduation Banquet or the Dallas-Fort Worth Scholar Program, email Kimberly Brady, Director of Development at kimberly@generationhope.org.
Event Details
What: Generation Hope Dallas Graduation Banquet
Who: First cohort of Dallas–Fort Worth Scholar Program graduates
When: Pre-interviews: 5:30 p.m.Graduation Ceremony: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Dallas Entrepreneur Center at RedBird Mall, 3662 W Camp Wisdom Rd #2044, Dallas, TX 75237
Media Opportunities
On-site access to graduates, mentors, and Generation Hope leadership
Live interviews available with student parents and organizational leaders
Press-ready photos available same evening upon request
About Generation Hope
Generation Hope is a nonprofit providing direct support as well as national advocacy and research for student parents in college. Through its Scholar Program, FamilyU initiative, and policy work, the organization is helping to transform systems so student parents can succeed—strengthening families, communities, and the workforce.