Dr. Tara Reed

What an incredible honor to be recognized at the Community Leaders and Entrepreneurs Event.

To be named among leaders who are creating impact, shifting conversations, and building legacy… I don’t take that lightly.

This moment is deeply personal.

Before titles, degrees, or businesses, there was a young girl working alongside her parents, learning what it meant to serve and pour into the Fort Worth community… often in the background, not for recognition, but because it mattered.

Thank you to my parents, Jim and Gloria Austin, co-Founders of the National Multicultural Western Museum, for the nomination. From Cowboys of Color Rodeo to providing scholarships through the Renaissance Cultural Center, and encouraging me to become a real estate broker, entrepreneur, educator, executive director, and more, you showed me that I could be anything. More importantly, you showed me what it means to build, give, and lead with purpose.

My journey as a serial entrepreneur began in 1999 with the founding of Next Level Consulting. Shortly after, I spent 20 years giving back to the community that raised me, rising to tenured full professor of Speech Communication at Tarrant County College, while also serving in leadership roles as President of NPHC Tarrant County, President of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Fort Worth Chapter, Chair of the National Communication Association Black Caucus, and Vice President of Education for the Junior League of Fort Worth.
In 2021, I expanded my reach by founding Reed With Purpose, LLC and One P.E.A.R.L. Movement, continuing my commitment to grow leadership, advocate, empower, and create space for people to live authentically through self-care and wellness.

Organizations like The Woman’s Club of Fort Worth, The Society, Inc. Supporting the Arts Tarrant County Pearls, and the Fort Worth Drowning Prevention Coalition have also poured into me, shaping me into a stronger, more intentional volunteer and leader.

To my community, each of you, thank you for your presence, your support, and your love.

I don’t take this honor lightly.

Thank you for seeing me.

Dr. Tara Reed

Did you know today is International Day of Happiness? What a great way end your week!
“Be Mindful. Be Grateful. Be Kind.”