Overview:
Cynt Marshall, the former CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, was honored with a retirement celebration that highlighted her profound impact on the city. The event featured heartfelt tributes and a surprise recognition from the City of Dallas, which acknowledged her groundbreaking leadership and dedication to social justice. Marshall expressed her deep love for the Dallas community and her commitment to service, stating that she will continue to be involved in the community. Her impact on Dallas will be felt for years to come.
A retirement celebration for former Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall became a powerful testament to her profound impact on the city, featuring heartfelt tributes and a surprise recognition from the City of Dallas.
The evening was punctuated by NBC 5’s Laura Harris, who delivered a deeply personal address, breaking from journalistic impartiality to express her admiration for Marshall. “We’re doing this thing for Cynt Marshall. I’m in. It didn’t matter what it was,” Harris declared, emphasizing the importance of the occasion. “Cynt Marshall is a visionary.”
Harris recalled her immediate fascination with Marshall’s appointment in 2018, even from her then-home in Tampa, Florida. “It was all over the screens that this woman was taking over the Dallas Mavericks. I didn’t even live here. And I was like, wait, that lady is taking over the Dallas Mavericks.” She praised Marshall’s genuine and approachable nature, highlighting her ability to make everyone feel like family. “She treats you like family. Constantly,” Harris emphasized.
Harris also lauded Marshall’s memoir, “You’ve Been Chosen,” and quoted Hoda Kotb’s endorsement: “Do you want to be lifted up? Then you’ve come to the right place. That’s always Cynt Marshall. Those 14 words.” Harris concluded her tribute with heartfelt admiration, “I want you to know that it has been a job well done. So well done.”
Adding to the celebration, the City of Dallas presented Marshall with a special proclamation. Liz Cedello-Pereira, representing City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, highlighted Marshall’s “groundbreaking leadership, community advocacy, and unwavering resilience.” Tolbert, unable to attend, expressed her deep admiration for Marshall.
The proclamation acknowledged Marshall’s historic tenure as the first African American female CEO in the NBA, lauding her as a “model of resilience, vision, and excellence.” It also highlighted her dedication to social justice and equality, recognizing her involvement with numerous local nonprofits.
Marshall’s extensive accolades, ranging from sports industry honors to prestigious business awards, were acknowledged, as were her personal triumphs as a devoted wife, mother, and cancer survivor. “The City of Dallas recognizes and celebrates Mrs. Cynt Marshall for her unparalleled contributions to the City of Dallas,” read Cedello-Pereira.
The evening concluded with Marshall herself, who was genuinely surprised by the outpouring of support. “ I really did think…I really did think that it was canceled,” she admitted, jokingly adding, “That’s what happens when you retire. You lose control.”
“I’m so excited about the next phase of my life because I get to just show up and be here for all of you and just do great things,” Marshall expressed her deep love for the Dallas community.
Reassuring the community, Marshall affirmed, “Please know that the Marshalls are still here. We’re not going anywhere.” She reiterated her commitment to service, stating, “My love for you is unstoppable. My hands, my heart, my head. I’ve committed it all to this community.”
With a spirited outlook, Marshall concluded, “We got a lot more to do, and I’m here for you. Thank you.” Her words resonated with the audience, leaving no doubt that her impact on Dallas will continue to be felt for years to come.