(L-R): Jessica Balladares-Bennett, Michael McCollum Adams, and Jessica McCoy
Center for Child Protection Announces Chairs for the 20th Anniversary of Dancing with the Stars Austin
AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 19, 2026- The Center for Child Protection is proud to announce Michael McCollum Adams, Jessica Balladares-Bennett and Jessica McCoy as the new event chairs for the 20th Anniversary of Dancing with the Stars Austin (DWTSA), set for Dec. 5 at the JW Marriott Austin. This trio of women brings decades of expertise in high-level fundraising, entrepreneurship and community leadership to one of the Center’s signature events.(L-R): Jessica Balladares-Bennett, Michael McCollum Adams, and Jessica McCoy
About the Chairs:
Michael McCollum Adams is a Co-Founder and Managing Partner at TAG Strategies, where she leads national fundraising and event strategy efforts across politics and public affairs. With over a decade of experience, she has raised more than $2 billion throughout her career and earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and effective fundraisers in the industry.
Before joining TAG, Michael founded Mark Strategies, a finance consulting firm serving political, PAC, and nonprofit clients. Her career includes leadership roles as National Finance Director for Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mitt Romney, Senator Ted Cruz, Dr. Mehmet Oz and Congressman Will Hurd. As well as senior finance positions with the NRSC, RNC, and Speaker Paul Ryan.
An entrepreneur at heart, Michael founded Anderson Parker, a luxury children’s boutique in Westlake, Austin, and Little Eight, a children’s lifestyle brand debuting in early 2026 that blends coastal charm, playful spirit, and elevated preppy style.
A Conroe, Texas native and graduate of the University of Mississippi, Michael lives in Austin with her husband, Jon, and their four children. She is a Lifetime Ambassador for Texas Children’s Hospital, a Board Member and for the Center for Child Protection.
Jessica Balladares-Bennett is a senior fundraising and event strategy leader with nearly 20 years of experience in advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and high-impact philanthropy. Known for her strategic vision and meticulous execution, she designs and produces large-scale fundraising initiatives, high-profile events, and philanthropic programs that align mission-driven work with broader brand and community goals.
Jessica previously served as Vice President at JHL Company for 10 years and has been part of the leadership team for Mack, Jack & McConaughey for 13 years, helping raise more than $80 million alongside longtime colleague and friend Jennifer Stevens. Her career also includes roles as executive director of a mental health professional association and committee director for the Texas House Committee on Defense and Veterans’ Affairs. Most recently, she served as a lead collaborator on Band Together Texas, raising nearly $9 million for disaster relief following the July 2025 floods.
A longtime Austin resident, Jessica holds a degree in communications with a minor in political science and remains deeply engaged in community leadership as an active volunteer with various local charities. She lives in Austin with her husband, Joey Bennett, and is the proud mother of her grown sons, Christian Tamez and Fauye Bennett.
Jessica McCoy is a Texas-based creative and entrepreneur with a passion for building meaningful community and thoughtful brands. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, she was a Texas Cheerleader and now serves on the board of the Texas Cheer & Pom Alumni Association, helping foster connection and tradition among Longhorn alumni. She is the co-founder of Little Eight, a children’s swimleisure line inspired by travel, family life, and effortless style. Jessica lives in Austin with her husband, Case — a UT graduate and former Texas Longhorn quarterback — and their four young children, who inspire much of her creativity and commitment to family-centered experiences. Known for her eye for design and heart for connection, she blends creativity with purpose — whether developing brands, bringing people together, or creating meaningful moments for families and friends.
“We are very lucky to have these three women taking charge of our 20th year of DWTSA,” said Vanessa Maldonado, Chief Development Officer for the Center for Child Protection. “Together, these ladies are ready to reach more people than ever, raising awareness about child abuse in Travis County and securing the vital funds needed to support every child who walks through our doors.”
The 20th Anniversary of Dancing with the Stars Austin celebrity dancer cast will be announced at a later date. To stay updated, follow the Center for Child Protection on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, YouTube and LinkedIn or sign up for the newsletter at centerforchildprotection.org.
ABOUT THE CENTER: The Center for Child Protection is a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center and the only nonprofit in Travis County involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children. For over 30 years, the Center has provided a safe, child-friendly facility where children impacted by abuse or violence can receive trauma-informed services, including recorded forensic interviews, therapy, and medical care. The Center’s vision is to end the cycle of child abuse through education, advocacy, and community support, which is why the Center also offers prevention education and training programs. All Center services are free of charge and offered in both English and Spanish. To learn more visit centerforchildprotection.org.
Media Contact
Genesis Moncada
PR & Communications. Manager
512-600-2406
gmoncada@centerforchildprotection.org
