The Falcon Fund 

Christina Collins - Speaker (Foundation partner):

Baylor University graduate and Dallas native Christina Collins has dedicated her career to public service, with more than a decade in political and philanthropic roles. She is the Executive Director of The Mike & Mary Terry Family Foundation, leading efforts to eliminate barriers for vulnerable North Texans, particularly children in Dallas County. Previously, she advised on public policy for the City of Dallas and held leadership roles in public affairs and communications at Metrocare and on Capitol Hill. In her free time, Christina enjoys traveling, the outdoors, and, most importantly, being a mother to her two girls.

Dr. Maya Barfield, DVM - Speaker (Parent of Dunne Students):

Dr. Barfield earned her doctorate in veterinary medicine from Tuskegee University in 1997 after studying animal science and biology at Purdue. She began her career with VCA in the Maryland-DC metroplex before joining Elanco Animal Health as a Regulatory Affairs Manager. After relocating to Texas in 2005 to focus on family, she returned to practice at Willow Brook Animal Hospital, becoming the owner in 2021. She and her husband, Adrian, have four daughters—Adrianna (BD ‘23), Alivia, Alandra, and Andelynn—along with their dogs, Boomer, Cosmo, and Alex.

Jessica Sepulveda '02 - Speaker:

Jessica Sepulveda ’02, a West Dallas native, discovered her passion for law while watching her father serve as Justice of the Peace in Oak Cliff. Jessica earned dual degrees in political science and English from St. Mary’s University before obtaining her law degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Returning to Dallas, she quickly made her mark, settling her first million-dollar case within a year and building a decade-long career of courtroom success. Dedicated to giving back, Jessica donates her time to legal clinics, pro bono work, and mentoring. She serves as President of the Mexican American Bar Association and has been appointed to two Dallas City Council boards, continuing her commitment to serving her community. 

Madelyn Collins - Moderator (Wife of an alumnus):

Madelyn Collins has been supporting students in their career journey for the last 13 years. As a Career and Technical Education Teacher and Administrator, she is passionate about helping others see their potential and elevate it to build thriving careers. Madelyn’s industry experience in hospitality & tourism is the baseline of her expertise and several of her topics are rooted from that perspective. Madelyn is the Lead Consultant of AGC Education Group, where she motivates students and business professionals to identify where they are, elevate, and pursue the endless possibilities.

Victoria Lara '16 - Speaker :

Award-winning journalist Victoria Lara ’16 earned her B.A. in converged broadcast media with a focus on political science from UNT. She launched her reporting career during the COVID-19 pandemic at an ABC affiliate in East Texas, quickly rising to primary anchor for the market’s top-rated morning newscast. After years of covering major national events, she pivoted from chasing breaking news to shaping it. Now, as a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Transportation, she’s on the other side of the mic—answering the tough questions instead of asking them.

Zulma Hernandez - Speaker (Prince of Peace Plano - Partner):

Zulma Hernandez, whose name means "peace," has built a remarkable career in talent management and organizational development, holding leadership roles at Fisher Investments, Baylor Scott & White Health, Aramark, Yum Brands, and most recently as VP at RNDC. Born in New York to Puerto Rican and Colombian parents, she faced early tragedy when her mother passed away, leading her to be raised by her grandmother in Puerto Rico, who instilled in her the values of faith and education. She earned a bachelor’s in science education, a master’s in public health, and a doctorate in training and performance improvement, along with multiple HR certifications. Zulma is currently the business manager for Prince of Peace Church.