Leadership Lessons with a Twist: John Dodd Headlines May 16 Dallas Founder Lions Club Lunch

At the Dallas Founder Lions Club, we believe leadership is about more than holding office—it’s about navigating tough calls, making meaningful change, and sometimes facing the downright bizarre. On May 16, our lunch program will spotlight a public servant who has done just that. We’re proud to welcome Hon. John Dodd, former Mayor and City Councilmember of Farmers Branch and Trustee on the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees, as our featured speaker.

Titled “The Bold, the Bizarre, and the Infamous: The Good, the Bad & the Memorable – From Queens to Commanders-in-Chief,” John’s talk promises to be an engaging ride through the highs, lows, and curveballs of public service. Drawing from decades in local government and education, John will share real-life stories that are as enlightening as they are entertaining. His journey through city council chambers and school board meetings offers insight into how communities are shaped—not just by policy, but by personality, perseverance, and yes, even a few surprises.

John Dodd reveals the highs, lows, and curveballs of public service in a way that few can. Whether you’ve served in public office, worked with local government, or are just curious about what really goes on behind the scenes, you won’t want to miss this one.

This event is part of the Dallas Founder Lions Club’s community speaker series, a cornerstone of our programming and a vital way we connect service with civic life. Key community speakers have been a defining part of our club's legacy for over a century, helping shape the Dallas Lions Club experience through connection, civic education, and collaboration. Held twice monthly in the heart of Downtown Dallas—just steps from where Lions Clubs International was founded in 1917—our meetings bring together community members, civic leaders, and Lions to learn, grow, and serve together.

Top Community Speaker Programs at the Dallas Founder Lions Club
We take pride in being more than just a service organization—we are a hub for civic engagement, education, and leadership. Our speaker series has featured a diverse and dynamic lineup of guests from across Dallas and beyond, each bringing their expertise, stories, and perspectives to our members.

In recent months, we’ve welcomed Dallas ISD Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Elizalde, Dallas College El Centro President Dr. Bradford Williams, and Dallas ISD School Board Trustee Joe Carreon—leaders who are shaping the future of education in our city. We’ve hosted journalists, historians, and authors like Rena Pederson and Sol Villasana, whose talks brought to life the stories and people that have defined Dallas.

Our fireside chat with Council Member Omar Narvaez and former Mayor Pro Tem Adam Medrano, moderated by our own Jeff Strater, offered a personal look at local leadership and advocacy in action. We’ve also explored international and cultural topics, with speakers like Beckie Callahan from the Japan-America Society and Juan Galvan from Downtown Dallas Inc., who’ve enriched our understanding of global connections and local placemaking.

A Place for Purpose and Connection
Whether you’re a seasoned civic leader, a curious community member, or someone looking to make a local impact, the Dallas Founder Lions Club is a great place to start. Our meetings are open, welcoming, and engaging. Visitors are encouraged to join us for a program, meet our members, and learn how Lions serve—from organizing eye clinics and food drives to supporting youth programs and disaster relief efforts.

As one of several Lions Clubs in Dallas with a strong tradition of civic leadership and engagement, we’re honored to offer meaningful programming, active service projects, and a warm space for building community.

Join us Friday, May 16 for this special program with John Dodd. Networking begins at 11:45 AM and the program starts at 12:00 PM at El Centro College (1st Floor Culinary Dining Room) in Downtown Dallas.

Lunch is available for $11 and must be pre-ordered online.
Start your order here: https://form.jotform.com/250243677495162

Parking Tip: For the easiest access, enter 609 Elm Street into your GPS. Park in the lot next to Record Grill—it’s just steps from the entrance and costs under $8. You can pay via QR code or through the ParkMobile app. Enter through the West Entrance on Market Street, directly across from the Records Building and Founder Plaza. Once inside, look for the Dallas Founder Lions Club banner.

For more information or to RSVP, email us at dallasfounderlionsclub@yahoo.com.

Come for the conversation—stay for the community.

John Dodd energizes the room in his role as Tail Twister forthe Dallas Founder Lions Club. Known for sparking fun and fellowship, the Tail Twister keeps meetings lively while supporting the club’s spirit of service.