A lively atmosphere at the Chick Lit Luncheon with engaging conversations.
On March 28, Dallas hosted the annual Chick Lit Luncheon featuring keynote speaker Hoda Kotb. The event, which supported Community Partners of Dallas, gathered 1,100 attendees at the Hilton Anatole. Kotb shared insights about her life post-TODAY Show, her journey as an adoptive mother, and delightful moments like FaceTiming Jenna Bush Hager. The luncheon also included a champagne reception and awards for community support, emphasizing the importance of fundraising for local initiatives.
The bustling city of Dallas was alive with excitement on March 28, as former TODAY show anchor Hoda Kotb took center stage as the keynote speaker for the annual Chick Lit Luncheon. This delightful event, which benefits Community Partners of Dallas, attracted a whopping 1,100 attendees at the elegant Hilton Anatole.
Presented by Dr. Robert and Lara Tafel, the luncheon was a vibrant mix of inspiration, laughter, and heartfelt stories. The atmosphere felt electric as NBC5’s Laura Harris moderated a charming conversation with Kotb about her new life post-retirement and her touching journey as an adoptive mother to her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine.
One of the standout topics during Kotb’s segment was her adventurous dive into what she affectionately calls her new “minivan life.” This family-centric lifestyle allows her more time to take her daughters to school and experience life together, nurturing those special moments that make parenting so rewarding.
As if the event wasn’t exciting enough, Kotb brought a wave of delight by FaceTiming her former co-host, Jenna Bush Hager, much to the surprise of the audience. The smiles on the faces in the crowd were absolutely priceless! Kotb didn’t stop there—she also attempted to FaceTime country singer-songwriter Walker Hayes, adding yet another layer of fun and spontaneity to the luncheon.
Guests were treated to a lavish champagne reception paired with a tasty Waldorf salad lunch, while also enjoying presentations for several awards throughout the event. One notable award was the Paige McDaniel Partners for Children Award, which was given to Toyota Motor North America for their outstanding support of Community Partners of Dallas. This organization plays a crucial role by providing vital resources and services to over 20,000 abused and neglected children each year in Dallas County.
The co-chairs of this year’s Chick Lit Luncheon, Alison Malone and Kelley Schadt, along with honorary chair Kameron Westcott, set the stage for an event that truly pushed the envelope on creative fundraising. Kotb shared many intriguing stories from her extensive journalistic career, including some valuable lessons gleaned from her Peabody Award-winning segment, “The Education of Ms. Groves.”
Audience members particularly enjoyed a lively lightning round of questions, which allowed them to learn more about Kotb’s personal preferences and experiences. For instance, she mentioned that her current favorite read is Maria Shriver’s book, I am Maria, revealing her passion for reading and self-reflection. When asked about her happy place, she described it simply as “in bed with my kids,” highlighting her deep family bond.
The Chick Lit Luncheon did more than just entertain; it sparked important conversations while maintaining a joyful atmosphere that struck a perfect balance between serious and lighthearted topics. Notable attendees included Lily Weiss, executive director of the Dallas Arts District, and executives from the Texas Ballet Theater, all seizing the opportunity to come together for a great cause.
With fundraising efforts from the event significantly contributing to support the arts and community programs in Dallas, many participants left feeling inspired and hopeful. Mark your calendars because the next Chick Lit Luncheon is already on the books for March 27, 2026, promising another fabulous afternoon filled with laughter, learning, and love.
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