Cross Timbers Lifestyle salutes five women making a difference in the community. Their work proves true the immortal words of Harriet Beecher Stowe: “Women are the real architects of society.” This month they share a bit about themselves, their work and advice they would give their younger selves if given the chance.
Chantell Upshaw
Principal, Marcus High School Ninth Grade Campus
Chantell Upshaw has been an educator and administrator in Lewisville ISD for the past 23 years. She previously worked as a teacher, high school assistant principal and middle school principal. Chantell has been recognized for her work as a secondary principal and assistant principal and holds a PTSA Lifetime Membership and Extended Service Award. She and her husband have lived in the Flower Mound/Lewisville area for more than 20 years and have three children.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I knew that my career path would be in education or design. Growing up, there were many teachers and principals in my neighborhood and church. I was fortunate to have parents who pushed the value of education.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of the work you do?
Being able to expand the minds of my students is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. While at M9, my staff and I have hosted many opportunities for students. Knowing that my students are receiving a well-rounded school experience, that includes service and a global perspective, has been the most rewarding aspect of my work.
If you could go back in time and tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
I would tell myself to take advantage of all opportunities that come your way! I feel like I may have missed some big opportunities, like the chance to travel out of the country, because I didn’t have all the details or have the full financial backing. Now I know, where there’s a will there’s a way!
Nicole Smith Woodard
Real Estate Broker and Host of Around Flower Mound podcast
Nicole Smith Woodard has been helping families buy and sell homes since 1995. She has been recognized annually as a D Magazine Top Producer, Texas Monthly Five-Star professional and a North DFW Real Producer. Nicole hosts the popular Around Flower Mound podcast and is co-administrator of the Around Flower Mound Facebook group. She is a member of the Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce and a board member of Cross Timbers Rotary Club. Nicole and her husband Dave live in Flower Mound and have four children.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
The best I can come up with is ‘executive secretary.’ I am the second girl in my family. My older sister was the typical perfect first born. Whatever we played, she was the leader. I knew I wanted more than the small-town life where I was raised, and I was willing to work hard to have it.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of the work you do?
I believe our homes create the chapters in the story of our lives. The most rewarding aspect of my business is helping people transition between chapters. It is my honor and pleasure to help people meet their real estate goals – regardless of their circumstances.
If you could go back in time and tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
Fully transparent: I spent an inordinate amount of time wanting people to like me, pleasing people and worrying about what they thought or said about me. I would tell myself – just be yourself – the best version of yourself you can be. Love people unconditionally. Relax. Have fun.
Mindy Howard
Marriage and Family Therapist, Owner of Converge Couple Therapy
Mindy Howard is a systemically trained marriage and family therapist who counsels couples and individuals. She owns Converge Couple Therapy, which offers comprehensive couple therapy services. Mindy serves on the clinical team for the North Texas Emotionally Focused Therapy Community. She and her husband have lived in North Texas for 14 years. They have two daughters, a son and “a menagerie of furry family members.”
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Is it funny that I always wanted to be a counselor? I wanted to help people. I loved listening. I did other things along the way. In the end, I came full circle and became a therapist later in life.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of the work you do?
The most rewarding moments are when I see couples breaking down walls, reaching for their partner, reassuring one another and restoring their connection. People become so wonderfully creative, empathetic and adaptable in the end. They become more attuned and accessible to one another, more responsive and engaged.
If you could go back in time and tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
Slow down, breathe and don't be afraid. Give thanks for what each day teaches you, even the valleys of pain and sorrow; they are temporary tutors. Worry less about becoming an expert, and use your time to be present with everyone you meet. Love them. Seek justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God, and you'll be ok.
Carol Kyer
President of the Board, Communities in Schools North Texas
Carol Kyer has worked with and raised funds for numerous non-profit organizations throughout North Texas. She currently serves as the President of the Board of Community in Schools of North Texas. Her outstanding contributions to the community garnered her the 2020 Flower Mound Citizen of the Year designation. Carol and her husband Mark live in Flower Mound and have three children.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
My mother would tell you that I always wanted to be an English Teacher. As the youngest daughter of five children, we were always playing school down in the basement during the cold winter months in Massachusetts.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of the work you do?
The most rewarding aspect of the work I do is seeing families and children succeed and be happy. I saw 15 years of students graduating from high school to go on to rewarding careers; families work hard to acquire their own homes; children who didn’t believe in themselves become successful; the joy in the eyes of foster children experiencing their first Christmas gift; parents stepping up and learning how to help their children in school; and teachers getting the accolades they very well deserve.
If you could go back in time and tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to keep an eye on the future, but enjoy the present. One thing that I regret not doing is keeping a daily journal. It’s easy to forget where you have been and accomplished when the daily hectic events take over your life.
Debra Wallace
Interim Town Manager
Debra Wallace is a Certified Public Manager and has worked in municipal government in North Texas for 25 years. Her position of Interim Flower Mound Town Manager recently was extended indefinitely. Debra received the Linda Keithley Award for Women in Public Management in 2015. She and her husband Jerry have lived in Argyle for 22 years and have two daughters, five grandsons and two dachshunds.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a child, I wanted to be a writer. I've always been an avid reader and had dreams of writing someday.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of the work you do?
The most rewarding part of my work is serving the community, problem solving and feeling like I'm making a difference in a person’s life.
If you could go back in time and tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
I would tell myself to always lead by example. Your actions are so much more important than words.