The Dallas/Fort Worth chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO DFW) announced the induction of its 2025–2026 Board of Directors. The new leadership team was officially installed during the organization’s Annual Induction Ceremony, held on June 26 at the Tower Club Dallas. This year marks the beginning of a dynamic new chapter under the leadership of Chapter President Karen “KJ” Johnson, with a visionary theme: Empower. Connect. Innovate: Leading Change, Shaping the Future.
KJ Johnson, an acclaimed empowerment coach and business strategist, leads the board with a clear mission: to elevate the visibility, voice, and impact of women entrepreneurs across the region through strategic advocacy, high-impact programming, and deeper member engagement. “This year is about building momentum, creating access, and leading boldly. When women rise, communities thrive—and NAWBO DFW is here to ensure every woman business owner has the tools, support, and sisterhood to do just that,” Johnson said.
The full 2025–2026 Board of Directors includes:
● Karen “KJ” Johnson – President
● Sammi Bivens – President-Elect
● Kate Winsor – Immediate Past President
● Traci McCulley – Secretary
● Tina O’Banion – Treasurer
● Crystal Johnson – Marketing Director
● Dr. Lakeiah Cheatham – Mentorship Director
● Charmaine Byers & Eboni Joseph-Wilson – Programs Co-Chairs
● Carol Urton – Membership Director
● Kristian McCray Stewart & Quin Cromer – Public Policy Co-Chairs
● Latasha Varnadoe-Iloabuchi – DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging) Director
● Ruki Roti-Balogun – Technology Director
● Terri Alford – Chapter Development Director
With programming centered on topics like leadership, innovation, access to capital, and community-building, the board plans to roll out signature initiatives such as the NAWBO ThinkTank, Brews & Views with KJ, The InvestHer Fund, and an EmpowerHER Leadership Series. These initiatives aim to foster deeper connection, provide tactical resources, and strengthen the economic influence of women business owners across DFW.
Source: press release
