The Motivated Mom officially wrapped up its 2024 Motivated Mom Retreat, held September 20-22 at the Virgin Hotel Dallas. The three-day event, sponsored by companies including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Pfizer, and Mielle, brought together hundreds of moms from across the nation for a weekend of empowerment, rejuvenation, and connection.
This year’s retreat, themed “Embrace, Empower, Energize,” was designed to support moms in shedding “mom guilt” while promoting personal growth in mind, body, and spirit. The event, which last took place in 2019, marked the return of the Motivated Mom of the Year Award—now named in honor of Rose Rock, mother of actor Chris Rock. Rose Rock was present once again to hand out the award, having originally received it herself in 2019.
The retreat kicked off with the Converse + Cocktail Dress Soiree on Friday, September 20, featuring the Celebrity Dad’s Panel led by actors Larenz, Larron, and Lahmard Tate. The panel, moderated by actor and comedian Flex Alexander, offered insights from fathers and provided a unique addition to the conversation.
During the soiree, the Motivated Mom of the Year Awards were held, honoring parents in various professional categories. Nicci Gilbert, lead vocalist of the R&B group Brownstone, was named Motivated Mom of the Year. At the same time, Laterras R. Whitfield, host of the viral relationship podcast Dear Future Wifey, became the first-ever recipient of the Motivated Dad of the Year Award.
LaToyia Dennis, founder of The Motivated Mom, expressed her dedication to recognizing the hard work of motivated moms and dads in their personal and professional lives. The event awarded several other honorees, including Dr. LaTanya Goffney, Superintendent of Aldine Independent School District, who was named Motivated Mom in Education, and Dr. Michael Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College, honored as Motivated Dad in Education.
Philanthropy awards went to Thana Hickman, founder of Viola’s House, and Richard Miles, CEO of Miles of Freedom. Ministry honorees included Stephanie Carter, First Lady of Concord Church, and Pastor Chris Simmons of Cornerstone Baptist Church. In business, Sheena Payne, Director of Community Affairs at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, and Roland Parish, CEO of Parish McDonald’s Restaurants, received top honors.
The Motivated Mom Retreat is a signature event designed to empower mothers and create a space for reflection, growth, and support. The retreat’s success highlights its continuing influence in North Texas and beyond.
