Our Governor

Ollie Gilstrap is the 19th Governor of the South Central District of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. where she oversees Clubs in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.  She is the former President of South Dallas Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc. where she set policy and programs and led an Executive Board who oversaw management of the largest Club in the Association throughout the United States.

Ollie began her professional career at AT&T (formerly Southwestern Bell Telephone Company) in numerous Human Resource positions including, but not limited to, Regional Tuition Administrator, Consultant-Survivor Benefits, and Manager-Disability Services. After a successful and rewarding 24-year career, she retired from AT&T in November 2000. 

One month later, her exceptional career path led her to Dallas Baptist University (DBU) as an Academic Counselor, Recruiter and Professor. She now uses her own educational experiences in her role as an Academic Advisor in the Graduate School of Business where she also teaches a graduate internship course, instructing and coaching students in activities that provide them with opportunities to make the connection between theory and practical application in a professional work environment.

In her roles at Dallas Baptist University, she has worked with metroplex corporations encouraging and promoting the value of adults completing their education. She has dealt with both management and employee personnel to provide options and classes for degree completion. Ollie says "advising is servant leadership at its best, providing fulfilling emotional, psychological, and spiritual rewards. My service to others begins on the inside with my own commitment to inspire the best in others."

She brings a positive and caring spirit to her job as evidenced by the relationships she establishes with the students she advises and teaches. It is not uncommon for former students who have been advised and/or taught by Ollie to come by her office and visit. The students have a profound appreciation for the assistance which she gives them. She has a proven legacy of gaining the trust, confidence, and respect of the students she serves. 

In recognition of her contributions and commitment to the field of civic leadership and educational advancement, Ollie was awarded the Educational Excellence Award from the Dallas County Peace Officers Association. This award was presented to an individual who has promoted the educational development of students through continued efforts to increase educational standards and opportunities. 

She received her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree with a major in Business Administration, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management, and a Master of Business Administration; all from Dallas Baptist University.  Ollie is also a Certified Court Mediator and served on the board of the Dallas Regional Chamber for one year. 

Ollie is married to Preston, and they are members of the Potter's House, Dallas. She is the mother of Shannon and Katrinia; Nana to her four granddaughters and two great grandsons, Brittany, Alexis, KaRon, Derria, Mark, and Melo.  When she is not working, teaching, or grading papers, she enjoys spending time with Preston, reading, traveling, movies, theatre, and living life to the fullest.