Our Board of Directors to recognize Carrell Ann Simmons’ dedication to Denton County nonprofits and organizations with the Dr. Bettye Myers Humanitarian Award at 13th annual UNITED Tribute.
The 2024 Dr. Bettye Myers Humanitarian Award will recognize Texas native and long-time volunteer Carrell Ann Simmons for several decades of selfless service to create a better Denton County for everyone. The prestigious award will be presented at the organization’s thirteenth annual UNITED Tribute gala celebration on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
Simmons’ community involvement spans decades and involves both civic and philanthropic commitments. She’s rolled up her sleeves to serve on committees and boards from the Denton and Argyle Chambers of Commerce to the Denton Main Street Association and the Texas Association of Partners in Education, as well as several local nonprofits like United Way of Denton County, CASA, and Hearts for Homes.
“I enjoy people” was Simmons’ simple explanation when asked why she gets involved so much. “Sitting at home all day is not my thing. If I can help, I just want to. I think we all need to help each other.”
Simmons grew up in a small farming community in the Panhandle with giving back and volunteering instilled in her at a young age.
“My mom and dad were always volunteering and doing stuff for the community and church,” explained Simmons. “Mother always encouraged us to give back.”
Simmons and her late-husband Stanley moved to Denton in 1985 when she began her long tenure in the Denton banking community, as well as her civic and philanthropic involvement.
Her introduction to United Way of Denton County came through the Allocations Committee as a volunteer reviewing the Partner Agency grant applications and conducting site visits to determine how the funds raised should be distributed.
“You learn so much about the community when you serve on the United Way Allocations Committee,” commented Simmons.
Simmons went on to join the United Way of Denton County board in 1992 where she was instrumental in starting the Project Blueprint: Board Training Program (now called Board Leadership Institute) as inaugural co-chair with Debbie Grigsby. Since inception, the program has trained and certified over 250 volunteers in Denton County to serve on nonprofit boards across the region.
In 2011, Simmons was recognized for her tremendous contributions to United Way of Denton County with an appointment as a Lifetime Member. But that didn’t slow down her involvement. Carrell Ann continues to be involved in any way she can including organizing Live United Month proclamations and 13 years volunteering with the UNITED Tribute organizing committee.
“Carrell Ann personifies our mission to improve lives by mobilizing people to action so all can thrive,” said Gary Henderson, President & CEO of United Way of Denton County. “Throughout her career and into her retirement years, she has been a constant force in Denton County circles inspiring, encouraging, and motivating others to deeper community involvement.”
In addition to those mentioned, Simmons’ philanthropic resume includes extended service to the Economic Development Partnership Board, Denton Benefit League, Go Red for Women Committee, Denton Prayer Breakfast Committee, Denton Festival Foundation Board, Adopt-A-School Advisory Board, Denton Holiday Lighting Festival Board, Denton Main Street Association, among others.
Not one to seek the spotlight, Simmons says she’s always happy when she’s volunteering.
“I feel like I’m helping someone. It’s a God-given thing to me, and that’s why I’m happy doing it.”
The Dr. Bettye Myers Humanitarian Award was established by our board of directors in 2012 to recognize the highest level of community leadership and philanthropy with time and resources. Recipients of this prestigious award are purposeful in promoting human welfare and have demonstrated active engagement in the community. Previous Dr. Bettye Myers Humanitarian awardees include its namesake, Dr. Bettye Myers, Janet and Joe Mulroy, Stan Morton, Debbie and Mark Merki, Bill Patterson, Denton County Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell, Ellen M. Painter, Denton County Judge Andy Eads and former Denton Mayor Chris Watts, Michelle and Brian Cree, Terry and Bob Widmer, and John Baines.
The thirteenth annual UNITED Tribute Gala featuring the crowd-favorite “Dancing with Our Stars” will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Denton Convention Center. This event celebrates the year’s successes for our community and pays tribute to the companies, employees, and community leaders who are part of our tapestry at United Way of Denton County. Event sponsorships, tables, and individual tickets can be reserved here, emailing events@unitedwaydenton.org, or by calling Kristin Jones at United Way of Denton County at (940) 566-5851 ext. 102. Early bird pricing available until November 30.