Klyde Warren Park Names Calvert Collins-Bratton President and CEO
Former chair of the City Of Dallas Park and Recreation Board, community leader, and longtime supporter to lead next chapter of growth and impact
DALLAS (July 23, 2026) – Klyde Warren Park and its foundation today announced the appointment of Calvert Collins-Bratton as President and Chief Executive Officer effective September 1, 2026, ushering in a new era of leadership for one of Dallas' most beloved civic spaces. A respected community and civic leader, Collins-Bratton brings a deep understanding of the Park's mission to the role. Her history with Klyde Warren Park spans more than a decade, including her service as Chair of the Dallas Park and Recreation Board, where she championed investments in public spaces and helped advance a vision for a more connected, vibrant city. She has also been a dedicated donor and supporter of the Park for many years.
"Few people understand the significance and potential of Klyde Warren Park as deeply as Calvert does," said Jody Grant, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. "She has been an advocate for public spaces throughout Dallas, a trusted philanthropic leader, and a longtime supporter of the Park. Her experience and expertise make her exceptionally qualified to lead Klyde Warren Park into the future."
Most recently, Collins-Bratton served as Chief Relationships Officer at Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT), where she led a team of charitable giving experts and served as a member of the foundation's executive leadership team. In that role, she oversaw development, donor engagement, fundraising, events, and stewardship efforts while working closely with individuals, families, corporations, and community partners to advance meaningful philanthropic impact across North Texas. She also led the foundation's corporate philanthropy initiatives through the Center for Business Impact.
“This is an incredible opportunity for Calvert to build on the work she's done at Communities Foundation of Texas, and to further impact our community through leadership of Klyde Warren Park,” said Wayne White, President and CEO at Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT). “While this news is bittersweet for us, we know this next chapter allows her to further her connected passions for community, philanthropy, and parks. Calvert has made a lasting impact on our organization, and we are certain she will do the same through her new role at the Park.”
Prior to joining CFT, Collins-Bratton served as Vice President of Communications and Strategic Events for Methodist Health System Foundation, where she directed fundraising events, donor relations, and strategic communications initiatives. Earlier in her career, she spent more than a decade as a television reporter and anchor in Omaha, Las Vegas, and Dallas-Fort Worth. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and broadcast news from the University of Missouri. Collins-Bratton was selected following an extensive search led by former Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert who is a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
"From the beginning of the search, we were looking for a leader who could combine strategic vision, fundraising excellence, strong relationships, and a genuine passion for the park's mission," said Leppert. "Calvert stood out in every respect. The committee is confident she is the right leader at the right time."
Since opening in 2012, Klyde Warren Park has become a nationally recognized urban green space, welcoming millions of visitors and serving as a vibrant destination for free programming, cultural experiences, education, wellness, and community connection. As President and CEO, Collins-Bratton will oversee the park's operations, programming, fundraising, strategic partnerships, and long-term vision including the recently announced expansion.
"Klyde Warren Park is one of Dallas' great success stories and one of the most beloved gathering places in our city," said Collins-Bratton. "The park demonstrates the transformative power of public spaces, and I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this extraordinary organization. I look forward to working with the Foundation's board, staff, donors, partners, and community supporters to build on its incredible momentum and ensure its impact continues to grow for generations to come."
About Klyde Warren Park
Connecting Uptown and the Dallas Arts District, Klyde Warren Park is a vibrant 5.4-acre urban park built above Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Welcoming more than 2 million visitors each year, the Park has become Dallas’ town square. Enjoy shaded walking paths, daily free programming, outdoor concerts and films, citywide celebrations and a rotating lineup of popular food trucks.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Angela Lang | Tony Fay PR | 214.548.0827 | angela@tonyfaypr.com
Reeves Eddins | Tony Fay PR | 901.647.9697 | reeves@tonyfaypr.com
