Kimberly Calton
Kimberly Calton says that success isn’t a race. “It’s about discovering what truly excites you and following that passion with patience and intention.”
Calton’s choice to prioritize happiness alongside professional achievement has led her to Communities Foundation of Texas, where she has built and leads the nonprofit’s recruitment strategy. Calton balances her career with her work as a fitness instructor at Tight Dallas and her commitment to serving the community.
Calton is an active member of The Dallas Opera’s board of directors, where she co-chairs the nominating and governance committee, and is a member of the audience development committee. She is also a member of Crescendo, the Dallas Opera’s young professionals’ group.
Calton has served as a mentor at the Dallas Boys & Girls Clubs, and as a committee member for the Junior League of Dallas’ annual fundraising campaign.
“I’ve always been inspired by my family and leaders in my community who dedicate time to helping others, whether it’s through volunteering or mentoring,” she said. “I want to make a positive impact in the community I love and grew up in by helping those in need and building stronger connections within my community.”
How do you motivate yourself and others?
I’m naturally a cheerleader for my friends, family, and colleagues. I believe in the power of encouragement and positivity. I surround myself with inspiring people. When it comes to others, I lead with support, enthusiasm, and belief in their potential. I feel energized and fulfilled when I’m able to support and empower others
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
Some of the best growth happens outside of your safety net. Whether it’s switching careers, moving to a new city, or launching a side project, don’t let fear hold you back. Also, the people you meet can open doors you never expected. Attend events, connect with professionals in your industry, and nurture genuine relationships. Opportunities often come through people, not just job postings.
What’s on your bucket list?
My biggest bucket list goal is to live as an expat in another country. Experiencing a new culture, immersing myself in a different way of life, and gaining a fresh perspective on the world would be a fun change.
Where do you see yourself and/or your career 10 years from now?
I plan to pursue my passion for entrepreneurship by starting my own business. Health and wellness have always been important to me, and I’d love to create something that helps others achieve their fitness goals. I also hope to continue to motivate and mentor others to achieve their goals, both career and fitness-related.
What accomplishment are you the proudest of and why?
I’m proudest of making the decision to focus on my personal interests and well-being, while also ensuring that my career aligns with my passions. I’m proud of the courage it took to prioritize happiness alongside success.
What was your “lightbulb moment” that led you to your career?
My lightbulb moment came when I realized how much impact effective people management and culture had on a company’s success. Throughout my career, I saw firsthand how empowered, motivated teams produced the best results. Seeing this sparked my interest in management and human potential, leading me to pursue opportunities where I could directly influence positive change and help individuals reach their full potential.
What’s a fun fact that someone wouldn’t know about you?
I speak French and love everything about French culture.
What would you tell an 18-year-old you?
Travel more and make lots of new friends and connections outside of your bubble. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of having everything figured out, but I’d advise slowing down and embracing the journey. Start a side hustle early on to gain practical experience and build skills outside of school or a traditional job. Don’t rush to conquer everything at once. Focus on learning, growing, and experimenting with different opportunities. Success isn’t a race; it’s about discovering what truly excites you and following that passion with patience and intention.
If you could buy a book (or rent a movie) for your neighbor, what would it be and why?
I would gift my neighbor The Secret, a documentary about the Law of Attraction. It explores the power of mindset, visualization, and positive thinking in shaping one’s reality. Seeing yourself already living your goals can help create the motivation and opportunities to achieve them. It’s an inspiring watch for anyone looking to shift their perspective and take control of their future.
What (or who) motivated you to get involved in the community?
What motivated me to get involved in the community was the desire to make a positive impact and contribute to something greater than myself. I’ve always been inspired by my family and leaders in my community who dedicate time to helping others, whether it’s through volunteering or mentoring. I want to make a positive impact in the community I love and grew up in by helping those in need and building stronger connections within my community.