GRACE is privileged to announce Ashley and Andy Cunningham as the 2016 GRACE Gala Chairs.
The Gala Chairs play an instrumental role in the oversight of GRACE’s single most important fund raising event of the year to ensure all the moving parts function seamlessly for a memorable and purposeful event. This year’s gala will take place on October 22, 2016 at the Irving Convention Center.
Andy received his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from Texas A&M University, and currently serves as Vice President of Business Development for Coastal Plains, a diversified old field services company.
Also a graduate of Texas A&M University, Ashley holds a Bachelor of Science in Community Health and a Master of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Texas. As a former teacher and child life specialist, her specialization in children with special needs led her to partner with Camp Jon Marc, a North Texas summer camp designed for children with disabilities.
The high school sweethearts have called Grapevine home since 2000, and have since volunteered ample time to after-school activities for their three young children, Drew, Claire, and Cole.
It was their great emphasis on family involvement and the encouragement of a family member that led them to invest in the mission of GRACE. When Andy’s sister, Jennifer Hibbs, who is the Assistant City Manager for Grapevine and GRACE Board Member, introduced the couple to GRACE five years ago, it was a natural fit.
“GRACE’s family-based approach and reputation initially sparked our interest,” said Andy. “As our participation in the GRACE Gala and Drive Into the Night grew, so did our love for GRACE’S mission to help families in a lasting way.”
Andy’s ingenuity for business strategy will be a tremendous resource in the oversight of committees, sponsor benefits and event logistics. Ashley’s extensive background in child and family services give her a broadened understanding of the heart behind our services. We look forward to collaborating with this wonderful family and what we can achieve together for the GRACE Gala in 2016.
The Cunninghams will be kicking of their first Gala Committee meeting on April 11, 9:30 a.m. in the GRACE Boardroom at GRACE Main, 610 Shady Brook in Grapevine. All interested in volunteering for the Gala are welcome to attend. For questions, email Special Events Coordinator Chelsea Rose.
