2025: Dorothy Ables

Dorothy Ables exemplifies the bold, innovative spirit of Mary Harriman through decades of visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to creating sustainable impact. As a trailblazer in both professional and nonprofit spheres, Dorothy anticipated vulnerabilities in traditional fundraising models and led the creation of the Junior League of Houston’s Community Endowment, securing the League’s financial future and enabling uninterrupted service even during crises like Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic. This legacy continues to generate 30 percent of annual program funding, sustaining transformative citywide initiatives. 

Dorothy broke new ground as only the second full-time working president of JLH and the second woman in United Way of Greater Houston’s 100-year history to chair its Community Campaign where she raised a record-setting $81.5 million in 2012. Her influence spans sectors, including early childhood education, healthcare, and family crisis support, where she has served on more than a dozen nonprofit boards and mentored countless women leaders. 

A master collaborator and visionary strategist, Dorothy empowers individuals and organizations to achieve meaningful, measurable change. Her legacy is reflected in a vibrant network of nonprofits and community institutions fortified by her leadership and insight. In every endeavor, Dorothy embodies Mary Harriman’s enduring belief in purposeful leadership and our collective responsibility to leave our communities stronger than we found them. 

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