New Year, Same Mission, Deeper Impact. | | As we turn the page into 2026, we’re not just planning events. We’re building momentum.
Every meeting, every volunteer hour, and every voice in our network moves us closer to a stronger, more equitable future for Black accountants across D/FW.
This month, we’re leading with legacy, launching key programs, and making space for connection, right from the start. | | Connect, Learn, and Grow with DFW-ABA! | | Not a Member Yet? Join Us Today! Discover the benefits of becoming a member. As a member, you’ll connect with our network of corporate partners and unlock a world of opportunities tailored just for you. Click and Join Us and start exploring all the advantages membership has to offer. | | | MLK Day: Honoring the Work, Living the Mission | | At DFW-ABA, Dr. King’s message goes beyond a single day it’s a foundation. His commitment to justice, equity, and community reminds us why we do what we do.
This month, we’re encouraging all members to engage in meaningful service or reflection. Your impact is critical, no matter the size: Whether it’s mentoring a student, volunteering with a local cause, or showing up for a community event.
"The time is always right to do what is right." - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | | 2026 Member Kick-Off: Wellness Bingo | | Spring is here, and DFW-ABA is excited to kick off the season with a fun and energizing Spring Wellness Bingo Challenge!
This activity is designed to help us stay active, connected, and mindful of our health and well-being.
Deadline: April 2nd, 2026
How It Works: Look out for the Bingo card, attached to this email Pick 7 activities to complete, and add a freestyle activity. This can be an activity of your own liking and choice, not necessarily related to health or wellness. The first five members to complete the bingo card and submit it will win special prizes!
We have Cash prizes and Branded items!
Next Steps: Complete the activities at your own pace, but remember the deadline is April 2nd, 2026. Submit your completed card to membership@dfwaba.org.
Let’s make this spring season one of wellness, positivity, and friendly competition. We can’t wait to see who completes their card first!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our Membership Director, Keren Koffi: membership@dfwaba.org. | | ⭐ Community Spotlight: Member-Owned Business ⭐ | | Jump & Wine: Barbados Crop Over 2026
DFW-ABA is proud to spotlight Caribbean Island Festivals, a member-owned travel experience designed for professionals who want to enjoy Barbados’ iconic Crop Over Festival without the stress of planning every detail.
The Jump & Wine Barbados Crop Over 2026 Package offers a curated, five-night stay at the Hilton Barbados, access to select all-inclusive fetes, ground transportation, and professional photography during the unforgettable Grand Kadooment parade. The experience is thoughtfully structured to allow travelers to be fully present while logistics are handled with care.
New for 2026, Jump & Wine introduces enhanced flexibility, a dedicated travel app for real-time updates, optional costume add-ons, and a complimentary consultation to help each guest tailor their experience with clarity and ease.
If Barbados has been on your bucket list, this is an opportunity to experience the culture, celebration, and community in a seamless, elevated way. | | | |
DFW-ABA is proud to spotlight Project Smith LLC, a member-owned digital marketing and brand strategy agency founded in 2015. Created by Jasmine Smith, the agency has grown into a trusted partner for brands nationwide.
Project Smith offers full-service digital marketing support for entrepreneurs, non-profits, and growing businesses.
Their services include: Their mission is simple: bring their clients’ visions to life while lifting the weight of marketing execution, allowing leaders to focus on what they do best.
Many Project Smith clients have transformed side hustles into full-time businesses with expanded teams and physical locations. Over 90% of clients see more than a 100% increase in social media visibility within their first 90 days, alongside sold-out events, stronger revenue pipelines, and increased nonprofit engagement and donations.
Driven by a people-first mindset and a belief in collective growth, Project Smith lives by a guiding phrase that reflects both its values and impact: Let’s Grow. | | | 🎓 Student Achievement Spotlight 🎓 | | DFW-ABA is proud to recognize Aaron Hidalgo, a 2025 DFW-ABA Scholarship Recipient, for his outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
Aaron is an Economics major at SMU, where he has demonstrated a strong passion for financial markets, investment analysis, and wealth management. He has involved himself on campus as President & Co-Founder of the Private Banking & Asset Management Club, a Career Consultant at SMU’s Hegi Family Career Development Center, and a participant in competitive finance organizations. All of this showcases both leadership and a dedication to helping others succeed.
Aaron has continued to build momentum through academic honors, professional development programs, and hands-on industry exposure. This reflects the type of impact this scholarship was designed to create.
We are incredibly proud of Aaron and excited to see all that he accomplishes as he continues his journey toward a career in wealth management and obtaining a CFP license. His success is a testament to the power of investing in future leaders.
👏 Join us in congratulating Aaron on his achievements! | | | Keep Your Profile Updated – Help Us Serve You Better! | Stay connected and help us improve our programming! By updating your profile on the DFW-ABA website, you ensure that we can tailor events, resources, and opportunities that align with your interests and professional goals. Your updated information also plays a key role in helping us track organizational metrics and enhance our outreach efforts. Take a moment to log in and update your details today - thank you for being an active part of our community! | | |
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| | Every year, our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helps hundreds of individuals and families file their taxes for free.
This isn’t just about returns; it’s about restoring trust and delivering access where it’s needed most.
We’re looking for volunteers ready to serve. Training is provided by the facilitators. All you need is the heart to help.
For more information, please contact community.affairs@dfwaba.org | | | This is our special space dedicated to celebrating, highlighting, and encouraging our members who are accomplishing a victory in their personal and professional lives. No success is too big or small - we are here to highlight and congratulate our members' success. Whether it's landing a new job, re-learning to tie your shoes, learning new sleep strategies, earning a certification, launching a successful project, or making an impact in the community, we are here to applaud your achievements. Join us in recognizing the continued efforts and dedication of our outstanding members. Keep striving for greatness and inspiring others with your incredible journeys! |
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| Let's congratulate Rodney Love on graduating with a Bachelors in Accounting from Southern New Hampshire University.
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| Let's congratulate Kiara Powell for graduating with a Bachelors in Communication from the University of Houston-Victoria. | |
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| Let's congratulate De'Ajanae Lockridge for graduating with a Bachelors in Communication from the University of Houston-Victoria. | |
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| Let's congratulate Cameshia Price for graduating with a Masters in Accounting from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. | |
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| Let's congratulate Shalisa Smith for making tremendous progress with her MBA at Tarleton State University. Nearing graduation, she has 4 additional classes to go before wrapping up her degree. |
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| | 👋Meet-a-Member: Emmanuel Hernandez! 👋 | |
My Background and Journey to DFW-ABA I’m a student leader and emerging accounting professional who’s heavily involved in organizations focused on leadership, inclusion, and community impact. Through roles with NABA, campus leadership, and professional programming, I’ve always been passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen and supported. I was drawn to DFW-ABA because it aligns with those values — especially its commitment to mentorship, service, and developing future leaders in accounting and business.
Memorable/Funny Experience as a Member A memorable moment for me was attending my first DFW-ABA event and realizing how quickly conversations went from formal introductions to real mentorship and laughter. It was funny how nervous I was walking in — and how quickly that disappeared once I felt the genuine warmth and encouragement from members who truly want to see you succeed.
My Dream Superpower Time manipulation — specifically the ability to slow time down. I’m involved in a lot, and being able to move with intention, reflect more, and give my best to everything I do would be powerful. It would allow me to lead thoughtfully while staying grounded and present.
My Advice to New Members Don’t just attend — engage. Speak up, introduce yourself, volunteer, and follow up with people you meet. DFW-ABA is full of people who genuinely want to pour into you, but the magic really happens when you take that first step and put yourself out there.
My Hobbies/Activities Dancing is a big one — especially salsa and line dancing. I also love planning events, building community, and creating experiences that bring people together. Music, social spaces, and moments of connection really recharge me.
What Content I'm Into I’m really into content centered on leadership, personal growth, and resilience. I gravitate toward podcasts and shows that highlight real stories of people overcoming challenges and building something meaningful — especially ones that remind me why community matters.
How Friends Would Describe Me Passionate. Resilient. Magnetic. | | Student Check-In: Starting Strong Together | | Students, this one’s for you.
We know being in school can bring questions, goals, and pressure, so we’re creating space to connect and grow. We are planning an exciting event to help you have a strong spring semester.
Stay tuned for further details - you won't want to miss it.
📩 If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email studentcare@dfwaba.org. | | Use Your Kroger Plus to Assist Our Growth! | |
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| Join Our Journey - Get Involved Today | | Your skills, passion, and perspectives are what make our community vibrant and strong. As we continue to grow and innovate, we invite you to bring your unique talents to one of our committees. Whether you're looking to make a difference, develop new skills, or connect with fellow members, there's a place for you. Explore our committees and find where you can best contribute to our collective success. Together, we can achieve incredible things. Dive in and make an impact...Join a committee today! | | |
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