Christie Eckler, founder of CME Consulting, first heard the idea for The Brilliance Ball from former student Renika Atkins.
Atkins founded Resources Inspiring Success and Empowering, better known as RISE, in 2015. As a child raised in the foster system, Atkins realized the challenges faced by young people aging out of similar situations. She formed RISE to provide resources to those met with challenges already familiar to her.
“When she told me about the idea, I was in,” said Eckler, who co-chairs the event with Estrus Tucker, co-founder, president and CEO of DEI Consultants.
The Brilliance Ball is scheduled for May 3 at The Social Space, 205 S. Calhoun St.
“Our mission raises the potential for significant societal change when the community invests in youth and innovative solutions to longstanding challenges,” said Atkins. “RISE bridges the gap from foster care to STEM careers through access to education, mentorship and technology.”
Atkins describes The Brilliance Ball as a unique experiential event that will prove that when people bring innovation, empowerment and creativity together through technology, they can set the stage to change lives by giving youth aging out of foster care the access and power to improve their lives.
Atkins says to expect an evening filled with inspiring stories, interactive technology demonstrations and opportunities to directly impact the lives of the youth whom RISE serves.
During The Brilliance Ball, RISE will present two “Architects of Inspiration” scholarships to youth served by the nonprofit.
“We’re pleased to honor Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams, president of UNT Health Science Center, and Dr. Karen Duncan, CEO of JPS Health Network, as trailblazers in their industries by providing scholarships in their names to two deserving youth impacted by our programs,” Atkins said.
The Brilliance Ball will feature U.S. Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Fort Worth, as the event’s honorary chair.
“RISE exemplifies innovation, empowerment and creativity through technology and sets the stage to change lives,” Veasey said in a news release. “Its work has motivated students, young adults and leaders to unlock their greatest potential and unleash their greatest skills and talents into the world.”
Atkins has received plenty of support from area leaders for RISE’s mission.
“The organization’s focus on stable housing, advocacy, educational support, mentoring and innovative programs such as the {HER} Code Summer STEM Experience reflects a commitment to holistic support and transformative educational opportunities,” Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker said in a statement.
If you go
What: The Brilliance Ball: A STEMspired Experience will immerse attendees in tech-inspired experiences, scholarships and networking. Find more info and tickets here.
When: 6:30 p.m. May 3
Where: The Social Space, 205 S. Calhoun St., Fort Worth TX 76104
Bob Francis is business editor for the Fort Worth Report. Contact him at bob.francis@fortworthreport.org.
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