Girls Inc. of Tarrant Co. Honors Local Leaders

Girls Inc. of Tarrant County (GITC) is proud to announce the honorees for its annual Champions Breakfast, an event recognizing individuals whose leadership, advocacy, and service empower girls and women in Tarrant County. This year’s honorees include six Bold Women and, for the first time, a Strong Man Honoree—a new distinction celebrating a male who champions opportunity for women and girls.

2025 Bold Women Honorees:

Christina Elbitar – Co-owner of Chadra Mezza & Grill (Cafe Chadra, Inc.) and real estate developer with Park Place Properties. A dedicated community leader, Christina has been a member of the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas for 21 years and co-founded the Latinas In Progress (LIP) program, which provides first-generation college-bound girls with educational resources and leadership opportunities. She also serves on the National Hispanic Scholarship Fund board.

Rosa Maria Berdeja – Founder of the Law Office of Rosa Maria Berdeja and an immigration attorney dedicated to providing legal resources and advocacy for vulnerable individuals. Rosa serves on the executive board of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Tough Stars Give Back, and Recovery Resource Council. She is also the Development Chair for the Foundation of Young Women’s Leadership Academy, supporting leadership and academic excellence for young women.

Constable Sandra Lee – The first woman and African American elected Tarrant County Constable, Precinct 7. Recently re-elected, Constable Lee continues her commitment to community service through her involvement with First Gen Scholarship, Purses with Purpose, and Purpose Driven Youth Empowerment.

Barbara Williams – Recently retired Managing Partner at Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, Barbara has dedicated her career to civic leadership and nonprofit advocacy. She currently serves as Vice-Chair of the United Way of Tarrant County and is a board member of Women Steering Business. Her past leadership includes serving as Chair of Girls Inc. of Tarrant County, Women’s Policy Forum, and Fort Worth SPARC.

Jill Black – A longtime community advocate and real estate professional, Jill has worked extensively with children in foster care and in education. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including Imagination Celebration and Friends of Fort Worth Nature Center, continuing her family’s legacy of public service. Jill has consistently stepped up to address critical needs, creating opportunities for women and girls to thrive.

Mayor Mattie Parker – The 45th Mayor of Fort Worth, with a career spanning over 18 years in national, state, and local public affairs. As mayor, she focuses on public safety, education access, and workforce development, working to create a city where families thrive, and opportunities are accessible to all.

2025 Strong Man Honoree:

Ty Stimpson – Partner at Varghese Summersett and leader of the firm’s Personal Injury Division. Ty is a dedicated advocate for youth and serves on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Tarrant County, where he provides mentorship and resources to young people, helping them achieve success. He also established the Elena Rois Memorial Scholarship, reinforcing his commitment to empowering women and honoring their legacies.