On March 8, 2024, St. Philip’s School and Community Center hosted the 24th Annual Destiny Award Luncheon featuring 2-time Grammy Award-winner and multi-platinum recording artist, LL Cool J. Former U.S Trade Ambassador and Dallas Mayor, Ron Kirk joined LL Cool J in a spirited conversation at the luncheon, aimed at inspiring the next generation of business owners, artists and entrepreneurs.
The event at the Hilton Anatole began with a St. Philip’s student dance performance of LL Cool J’s “Mama Said Knock You Out,” which LL later explained is an homage to his grandmother who told him to “knock out” failure and criticism.
LL Cool J — an inductee of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a two-time Grammy Award winner, recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors, recording artist, actor, author, NAACP Image Award winner, entrepreneur and philanthropist — has crafted one of the most diverse careers and brands in entertainment history. But his fame and success began with family support, and unwavering determination to reject failure.
“A lot of times they see the end but not the journey,” LL Cool J said during the luncheon. “Failure can make or break you. If you’re not emotionally and spiritually able to handle failure or the possibility of failure, you won't be able to be successful. It just comes with the territory.”
And a similar success and drive is shown at the St. Philip’s School and Community Center. Throughout the years, the St. Philip’s community has created a legacy that betters the surrounding neighborhoods and produces opportunities for the Dallas community — fostering initiatives that help young people, the elderly and anything in between.
Ron Kirk — a lawyer and politician who served as the U.S. Trade Representative from 2009 to 2013, as the 97th Secretary of State of Texas and as the 56th Mayor of Dallas from 1995 to 2002 — asked LL Cool J about finding motivation and building an empire that will last a lifetime.
“Someone not believing in you can’t affect your confidence,” LL explained. “Believe in the beauty of your dreams and go after them wholeheartedly. Don't listen to your fearful doubts.”
The highlight of the luncheon, however, was the Q&A between LL Cool J and the students of St. Philps. Students passionate about the arts, sports and entrepreneurship, were eager to ask about being successful and following their dreams.
“You have to maximize your potential,” LL Cool J said. “If not that then what are you here for?”
St. Philip’s School and Community Center is a source of hope and change in South Dallas. Catering to children aged 2 to 14, from PreK2 to 8th grade, St. Philip’s offers an outstanding educational experience that promises success for students. And the impact of St. Philip’s is remarkable: every St. Philip graduate earns a high school diploma, with 95% continuing to seek a college degree.
Proceeds from the luncheon supported initiatives fostering education, aiding seniors, combating hunger and engaging youth in the community.
To learn more about St. Philip’s community involvement, visit stphilips.org.
