Aug. 19, 2025 SHARE: Houston, Texas, Aug. 19, 2025 –Dr. Delesa Franklin, School of Education Online Department Chairperson and Asst. Professor in the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Houston Christian University (HCU), has been honored with the prestigious Houston Texans’ BOLD Award — recognizing her as a Bold Outstanding Leader and Doer in the Greater Houston Community. Presented by Coca-Cola, the BOLD Awards honor African Americans who are positively shaping the Houston area through their contributions in community impact, entrepreneurship, social equity, non-profits and civil service. As part of her selection, Dr. Franklin, and four fellow award recipients, will each have the opportunity to direct a $5,000 donation to a nonprofit organization of their choice. Dr. Lesli Fridge, Dean of Education & Behavioral Sciences at HCU, was not surprised by her colleague’s selection for this award. “Community service, giving back, and growing others are a part of who Dr. Franklin is. She has a servant’s heart, and it was a pleasure to work with the Texans organization to orchestrate such a fun surprise,” said Dr. Fridge. Dr. Franklin received a surprise on-campus visit from the Houston Texans’ mascot, Toro, and several Houston Texans cheerleaders, along with Hannah McNair, Vice President of the Houston Texans Foundation, who announced her selection for the award. The HCU educator shared that while receiving honors doesn’t come easily to her, she accepts this special recognition with a grateful heart, giving thanks to God. “This recognition not only underscores the importance of boldness and advocacy but also motivates me to continue my efforts and inspire others. I’m thankful to the Houston Texans for this meaningful honor and remain dedicated to living out the values of this award,” said Dr. Franklin. Franklin is a dynamic educator, professor and department chair, who is dedicated and committed to the growth and success of her students. She is founding principal of the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy, Houston ISD’s first all-girls STEM magnet school, championing underrepresented students in science, technology and math. She has been named among Houston’s 30 Most Influential Women and received numerous awards, including the Humble Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction Educator’s Award, Top Ladies of Distinction Ivy League Trailblazer in Education Award and Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Education Excellence Award, among many others. HCU Associate Dean Dr. Katie Alaniz described the recognition as “a testament to Dr. Franklin’s visionary leadership, dedication to education, and tireless service to the community.” “Her passion for empowering others and her unwavering commitment to excellence inspire all of us every day,” said Dr. Alaniz, Associate Dean in the College of Education & Behavioral Sciences. Award winners were officially announced and honored on Saturday, Aug. 16, during half-time at the Houston Texans game in NRG Stadium. # # # About Houston Christian University For more than 60 years, Houston Christian University has equipped students to lead, collaborate and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s largest metropolitan centers, HCU’s culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world.
