From the Director’s Chair
Greetings, DECATS Families!
As we wrap up an incredible summer, our final week has truly taken us to the Next Level! Scholars showcased their talents and hard work through course presentations, and our community came together for the powerful culmination of our service project. Thanks to your generosity, we collected over 1,000 cans and non-perishable food items to support the Houston Food Bank—a true reflection of compassion in action.
During Thursday’s Closing Celebration, Scholars explored their creativity and teamwork in a dynamic performance that beautifully demonstrated the critical thinking, leadership, and collaborative spirit they’ve developed throughout the program. It was a memorable moment that captured the essence of what it means to level up, both personally and together.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your Scholar’s journey this summer. We hope that each Scholar walks away from DECATS not only with new knowledge and friendships but also with an experience that has made a lasting difference in their lives and the lives of others.
As we look ahead, your feedback plays a vital role in helping us improve and grow. Both the Parent Evaluation and Scholar Evaluation are now available to you on your myStatus portal checklist. We’d love to hear about your family’s DECATS experience and how we can continue to reach new heights together.
We also encourage you and your Scholar to share your gratitude by writing a thank-you letter to DeBusk Foundation. Their team is always inspired to hear how their support has impacted young lives. You may send your correspondence electronically via the form on the homepage in your myStatus portal.
To help us continue making a difference, we invite you to contribute to the DECATS Scholarship Fund. DECATS Houston began 31 years ago, thanks to a generous gift from Manuel DeBusk, and continues to thrive through his foundation’s enduring commitment. Your tax-deductible donation, and any eligible corporate matching gifts, will directly support tuition assistance for future Scholars.
DECATS 2025 was a summer of excitement, growth, and transformation—and we can’t wait to see you again next June!
With gratitude,
Dr. Tonya Dixon
Program Director, Incarnate Word
