A Celebration of Leadership and Literacy in Dallas
Last Thursday, United to Learn Founder Abby Williams, along with her husband Todd Williams, was honored with the prestigious J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award from Southern Methodist University’s Maguire Center for Ethics and Public Responsibility. Presented annually, the award recognizes individuals whose careers exemplify moral leadership, public virtue, and a sustained commitment to serving the greater good.
For those who know Abby and the mission of United to Learn, this recognition reflects something much bigger than a single moment. It is a testament to years of dedication to students, educators, and schools across Dallas, and to a community of supporters who have helped drive that impact forward.
Turning Recognition into Action: Bringing Leaders into Dallas Classrooms
Rather than simply attending a luncheon and ceremony, Abby used this moment to create a deeper, more meaningful experience for attendees. Prior to the award presentation, civic and business leaders were invited to step directly into Dallas ISD classrooms and engage with students firsthand. At Walnut Hill International Leadership Academy, District Trustee Sarah Weinberg welcomed guests with gracious remarks, and Principal Philip Meaker described the daily impact of United to Learn’s work for his students.
In Walnut Hill’s classrooms, guests participated in the magic of reading together firsthand. They sat alongside students, placed books into their hands, and shared the joy of learning together. Conversations sparked, smiles spread, and what could have been a symbolic day became a tangible expression of United to Learn’s mission in action.
This immersive literacy activation created a powerful bridge between recognition and real-world impact, bringing the values celebrated at SMU directly into the spaces where they matter most.
Showcasing the Power of Community Partnerships in Dallas ISD
The classroom visits also highlighted United to Learn’s partnerships with local schools and educators. By opening their doors, teachers and administrators demonstrated what is possible when communities come together to support student success.
Through this experience, attendees were able to:
- See firsthand the impact of strong school partnerships
- Build meaningful connections with students and educators
- Experience the importance of literacy access in shaping academic and lifelong success
Moments like these reinforce a simple but powerful truth: when students have access to books and caring adults to read alongside them, their opportunities expand in lasting ways.
A Shared Achievement and an Invitation to Do More
Abby’s recognition at SMU reflects our community’s collective effort. Every volunteer, donor, educator, and advocate plays a role in making moments like this possible.
As United to Learn continues to grow its impact across Dallas, this milestone serves as both a celebration and a call to action. There is more work to be done and more students to reach.
If you’ve been part of this journey, thank you. If you’re just discovering our work, we invite you to join us in expanding access to literacy and learning for every student in our community.