Michael Kovac is currently a student at Duke University studying psychology. When he's not at work, Michael enjoys playing guitar, spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and cheering on Duke basketball. Believing that every challenge should be met with a positive mindset, he’s passionate about supporting Grant Halliburton Foundation's mission to expand access to mental health education and resources for children and teens.
During Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 20th anniversary year, Grant’s former Plano West art teacher, Douglas Darracott, reached out to return several pieces of Grant’s artwork to his family. The visit became a meaningful moment of reflection, memory, and gratitude for Grant’s creativity and the mission his life continues to inspire.
Grant Halliburton Foundation is marking its 20th anniversary in 2026, commemorating two decades of work focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention education for North Texas communities. Founded in 2006, the Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals with its mental health education, resources, and support programs.
Meet Theresa, Grant Halliburton Foundation’s community support resources coordinator. Originally from Nebraska, Theresa holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in social work. Her professional background includes case management with immigrant families, teaching adult ESL, and working with children. Theresa is deeply passionate about making a positive impact through social work, fostering meaningful relationships, and promoting mental health awareness.
Meet Makenna, Grant Halliburton Foundation’s development intern for the summer. Originally from Dallas, Makenna is entering her Sophomore year at Parish Episcopal School in Dallas. She’s passionate about music, reading, and mental health education. During her time with the Foundation, Makenna is gaining hands-on experience in nonprofit development and donor relations.
Meet Ella, Grant Halliburton Foundation’s marketing and development intern for the summer. Originally from Dallas, Ella is entering her junior year at the University of Mississippi, where she’s majoring in criminal justice. She’s passionate about art, reading, and making a difference through meaningful communication. During her time with the Foundation, Ella is gaining hands-on experience in nonprofit marketing, event promotion, and development.
Meet Presley – Grant Halliburton Foundation’s events and marketing intern for the summer. Originally from Midlothian, Texas, Presley is entering her senior year at the University of Oklahoma, where she’s majoring in public relations. She’s passionate about storytelling, social media, and making a difference through meaningful communication.
As we gather with friends and family on this day of thanks, I'll be thinking about you and the contributions you make to empower Grant Halliburton Foundation's mission. Because of you, we've trained more than 325,000 teens, parents, teachers, and professionals in mental health education and suicide prevention since 2006
Today marks the first day the Grant Halliburton Foundation staff officially begins working at Pegasus Park —the new home of the Foundation. The Foundation was selected to be part of the renovation development off Stemmons Freeway – named in homage to the old ExxonMobil building with the iconic red-winged Pegasus symbol at its top.
Grant Halliburton Foundation continues to experience organizational growth propelled largely by the continued need for mental health education and mental health resources in North Texas. The education and outreach team welcomed several new staff members last fall and early this year to reach more people with vital mental health and suicide prevention training.
