As CEO of Resource Center, Cece Cox leads one of the largest LGBTQIA+ and HIV/AIDS service organizations in the U.S. She manages a 90-person staff and delivers services to more than 60,000 people a year. “People need to be allowed to self-actualize,” she says. “There are too many LGBTQ individuals living in fear and unable to realize their potential.” Recent achievements include the launch of a $31 million affordable housing development and the growth of a primary medical care practice that prioritizes the LGBTQIA+ community. Cox says she’d like to see public perception of nonprofits change. “They are as vital to our communities and economy as for-profit organizations,” she says, “and worthy of significant investment.”
Education
Southern Methodist University (JD), Northwestern University (BS)
First Job
“Running the grill and snack bar at a pool in the summer. You still have to serve food with a smile when the air conditioning goes out and it’s 106 degrees outside.”
Best Advice
“My dad once told me, ‘Keep your nose to the grindstone.’”
Toughest Challenge
“Purchasing land from four different sellers and working with a team to put together $31 million in financing for Resource Center’s affordable housing development that is LGBTQIA+ affirming.”
Key Strategies
“Staying focused and determined on the vision (the long game), and treating everyone with respect—employees, clients, customers, donors, volunteers, and adversaries.”
Destination of Choice
“I love to visit New Mexico. Hiking all day and a cold drink at night? Yes, please.”
Hobbies/Passions
“Exercising outside and joyful morning walks”
Favorite Thing
“A purple Teletubby figure my mother gave me. It’s a long story, but a special one.”
Last Meal
“I’d choose fried chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and fudge pecan pie.”
Fun Fact
“I frequently burst out dancing in my office, especially if I hear a funky groove.”
Pivotal Moment
“I once had a job I thought I would love that turned out to be a beat-down. I was able to evaluate why it wasn’t a fit, and that helped me focus on what does bring me joy and meaning in life.”
I Collect
“Bird feathers”
Favorite Movie
“Brokeback Mountain. The emotion that comes through the screen and the things unsaid bring me to tears every time.”
Must-Read
“The Elements of Style by E.B. White”
Local Fare
“My favorite is Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen on Lower Greenville. It has the tastiest noodle dishes and great people-watching on the patio.”
First Car
“A pea-green Fiat with no heat or air-conditioning”
Spirit Animal
“The blue heron. It brings the gift of self-reflection.”
Alternate Reality
“If I didn’t have my current career, I’d be growing vegetables and teaching kids about healthy eating.”
Guilty Pleasure
“Eating a half-pint of Ben and Jerry’s Chunky Monkey from the carton”
