Lance Avery Morgan
Event Co-Chair Katie Flowers Samler Shares How The Lively Gathering Benefits So Many
In a city brimming with galas, luncheons, and glittering soirées, few events strike at the soul of Dallas quite like The Family Place’s annual Trailblazers Luncheon. This year, the spotlight shines on attorney and philanthropist Katie Flowers Samler, who steps into the role of co-chair, alongside fellow chairs Ellie Thomas and Kristen Cobb. Our philanthropy arbiter, Lance Avery Morgan, recently caught up with Samler to learn more about her vision for this year’s much-anticipated luncheon, which takes place on October 10th at the Fairmount Dallas.
The Mission At Heart
A seasoned family law attorney, Katie Flowers Samler has seen firsthand the devastation family violence leaves in its wake. “I witness the profound and lasting impact that family violence has on children and families,” Katie Flowers Samler explains. “It is an issue that extends far beyond the courtroom and can impact every aspect of a person’s life and future.” Her seat at The Family Place’s board table has only deepened her commitment to the cause. So, when the opportunity arose to co-chair the luncheon with close friends Kristen Cobb and Ellis Thomas, Samler knew it was more than a chance to plan a signature event. It was a mission to bring hope to those who need it most.
Founded more than four decades ago, The Family Place has become one of the largest providers of family violence services in Texas, offering a lifeline of safety, shelter, counseling, legal assistance, and transitional housing to thousands of survivors each year. Their goal is simple yet profound: to help survivors and their children escape abuse, heal from trauma, and build safer futures. “Serving on The Family Place board has only deepened my commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse and supporting survivors on their journeys towards healing and independence,” Samler reflects.
What Guests Can Expect
On the luncheon day, October 10th, the Fairmont Dallas will transform into a space of both celebration and reflection, promising a “joy-filled afternoon with friends and powerful storytelling,” according to Samler. Guests will witness Effie Dennison receive the Texas Trailblazer Award and Jan Langbein be honored with the Paige Flink Award. And for the keynote? None other than Christie Brinkley, the beloved supermodel, entrepreneur, and advocate, whose presence highlights the importance of women supporting one another.
Perhaps most moving of all will be the words of Sabrina Greenlee, a survivor and advocate whose testimony speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. “It’s going to be unforgettable,” Samler says.
While Dallas knows how to turn out for a cause, Samler is quick to point out that this event isn’t just about a sparkling afternoon. “Unfortunately, domestic violence doesn’t pause during difficult times—it often intensifies,” Samler notes. The funds raised are critical, ensuring that lifesaving services remain free of charge to those who need them most.
Defining Success
The co-shair’s vision for the luncheon extends beyond its final applause. They hope attendees leave with more than memories. “That they leave with purpose. That they have the power to change lives,” Samler says. “I want guests to feel inspired and proud that they were part of something that creates safety, hope, and second chances.”
So what will success look like when the last guest leaves the Fairmont ballroom? For Katie Flowers Samler, it’s both simple and profound: “Exceeding our fundraising goal and knowing that more families can find safety and healing because of the generosity in that room.”
For those unable to attend, opportunities to make an impact are plentiful: consider donating, becoming a table sponsor, volunteering, or shopping at The Family Place Resale Shop, where every purchase supports programs for survivors. As Dallas readies itself for one of the city’s most impactful luncheons, Samler’s leadership reminds us of the true heart of philanthropy. Beyond the gowns, the guest lists, and the grandeur lies a community determined to rewrite futures; one life, one family, one act of courage at a time.
The best career advice I’ve received is…
Katie Flowers Samler: Lead with integrity, kindness, and empathy; they matter more than titles or accolades.
Three qualities that got me where I am today are…
Katie Flowers Samler: Perseverance, optimism, and hard work.
Easiest career decision I ever made is…
Katie Flowers Samler: Saying yes to opportunities that align with my values.
Due to my ongoing involvement with The Family Place, I have found that…
Katie Samler: The courage survivors show every day is extraordinary, and it inspires me to keep showing up and doing the work to help them.
How I made my first dollar…
Katie Flowers Samler: Babysitting for neighborhood families.
First music I bought was…
Katie Flowers Samler: Mariah Carey’s Emotions cassette tape
Whenever I hear a Yacht Rock song, I immediately…
Katie Flowers Samler: I think of summertime at the pool.
Last thing I binge/marathon watched…
Katie Flowers Samler: The Gilded Age.
Book that left a lasting impression on me…
Katie Flowers Samler: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
On that note, my favorite fiction character is…
Katie Flowers Samler: Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice.
My real-life hero has got to be…
Katie Flowers Samler: My mother; her positivity, resilience, and grace inspire me daily.
If I lived in a foreign city, it would be…
Katie Flowers Samler: London.
What everyone should try in their lifetime is…
Katie Flwoers Samler: Volunteering your time for a cause you believe in.
If I weren’t doing what I do I would (be a…)…
Katie Flowers Samler: Be an art history teacher or museum curator.
My hidden talent that most people might not guess is…
Katie Flowers Samler: I love making homemade pasta.
If I had a superpower, I’d want it to be…
Katie Flowers Samler: Teleportation, so I could skip the airport and be anywhere instantly.
A simple way to get people to laugh is easy. Just…
Katie Flowers Samler: Tell a self-deprecating story.
A phrase I might overuse would be…
Katie Flowers Samler: “What’s for lunch?”
My motto? Easy. It is…
Katie Flowers Samler: Be kind.
Favorite scent these days is (because)…
Katie Flowers Samler: Gardenia.
My style icon is…
Katie Flowers Samler: Jackie Kennedy; timeless and elegant.
My personal style signifier is…
Katie Flowers Samler: A classic silk scarf.
The classic designer I wish was still designing today would be…
Katie Flowers Samler: Oscar de la Renta.
The last meal that truly impressed me was…
Katie Flowers Samler: I recently had dinner at Wild Blue in Whistler, Canada, and every bite was deliciously fresh and local.
In my fridge, you will always find…
Katie Flowers Samler: Diet Coke and dark chocolate.
My perfect day would end…
Katie Flowers Samler: Taking a walk with my family.
The title of my autobiography will likely be…
Katie Flowers Samler: Say Yes and Figure It Out Later.
