Ashlee and Chris Kleinert to receive SMU ethics award

DALLAS (SMU) – In recognition of their bold contributions to the Dallas area and devotion to public service, Ashlee and Chris Kleinert will receive the 2024 J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award from SMU’s Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics & Public Responsibility. Named in honor of J. Erik Jonsson, the public-spirited former Dallas mayor, the annual award is given to individuals who epitomize the spirit of moral leadership and public virtue.

Committed to creating a profound and enduring positive impact within the Dallas community, the Kleinerts take a proactive approach to giving back and believe their highest and best use is connecting people.

“Ashlee and Chris Kleinert are social entrepreneurs who set the standard because they model the kind of ethical leadership that inspires others,” said Rita Kirk, director of the Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics and Public Responsibility. “Like all entrepreneurs, they face successes and challenges, yet they keep engaged in community efforts to do better and to enable sustainable change.”

The Kleinerts created the Good Foundation in 2017 with a mission to serve those in need of a chance. The foundation is focused on businesses for good, youth education, women and children, homelessness, domestic violence, and social justice reform. The foundation researches gaps in services to underserved populations and then enlists the support of community partners who provide a means of recovery and the resources necessary to generate a fresh start.

Since 1997, the J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award luncheon has served as the Center’s primary fundraising event, supporting dynamic programs that serve the SMU faculty, staff, and student body as well as our community at-large. The support from this event directly funds the Center’s annual operations and ensures its continued success.

Past winners of the J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award include Michael Sorrell, Ross Perot, Jr., Bobby Lyle, and Roger Staubach.

Find more information about the 2024 J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award here.

What: Ashlee and Chris Kleinert will be the recipients of the 2024 J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award. This annual award is given to individuals who epitomize the spirit of moral leadership and public virtue.

When: Thursday, April 11, noon to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Martha Proctor Mack Grand Ballroom, Umphrey Lee Center - 3300 Dyer St. MAP

Parking: Arrive at the north end of Bishop Blvd. A valet service will transfer vehicles to sections of the Binkley Parking Center.

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