On Monday, Oct. 12, the Metroplex Civic & Business Association (MCBA) gathered Dallas business executives, civic leaders and elected officials in the historic Pecan Room of Old Parkland. The venue’s classic woodwork, fireplaces and a small Lincoln memorabilia display set a reverent tone for a conversation about leadership and public service.
Local leaders share experience
Former Dallas mayor Tom Leppert and real‑estate developer Will McNutt led the discussion, moderated by entrepreneur and media correspondent Amy Robbins. Leppert recalled his 1984 selection as one of only 13 White House Fellows during the Reagan administration, a program created by President Lyndon B. Johnson to develop future civic leaders. McNutt, co‑founder of Anthem Development and a former Texas Military Department attorney, also serves on the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships.
Call to action for employers
McNutt challenged attending executives to identify their most talented employees and encourage them to apply for the White House Fellows program. He asked companies to support selected fellows by allowing a year away from regular duties for public‑service work, emphasizing that cultivating future leaders sometimes means looking beyond immediate business needs.
MCBA’s civic‑engagement programs
MCBA CEO Julie Strum highlighted the association’s VOTElocal program, which provides employee‑voting reminders and information ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. She noted that employee turnout through VOTElocal has been four times higher than the general population, illustrating the impact of employer‑driven civic participation.
Dallas City Council member Bill Roth attended, underscoring MCBA’s goal of fostering constructive relationships between elected officials and the business community. The event was presented by Ben Abbott and Associates, with attorney Ben Abbott introducing the guests and noting his long‑standing involvement in Dallas civic organizations.
Why the White House Fellows program matters
The Fellows program selects a small, highly qualified cohort each year to work alongside senior federal officials for roughly twelve months. Participants gain firsthand experience in national policymaking before returning to their careers and communities, helping to build a pipeline of capable public servants.
By bringing together seasoned leaders and emerging talent, the MCBA Leadership Forum reinforced the belief that strong families, faith‑grounded values and individual liberty thrive when communities invest in the next generation of public servants.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
