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Empowering
Behavioral Health

Join us at the Irving Behavioral Health Symposium hosted by The Irving Hispanic Community Forum & Irving ISD. Access vital resources for mental wellness and support. Together, let's foster awareness and understanding.

Image by Lindsay  Henwood
Image by Lindsay  Henwood
Image by Lindsay  Henwood
Image by Hirzul Maulana
Image by Lindsay  Henwood

A Vision for Wellness

Today marks the beginning of a community-driven journey to grow an integrated behavioral health program in Irving. Together, we are building from this symposium toward sustained partnerships that make behavioral wellness accessible for every family, every neighborhood, and every community we serve.

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Expert Presentations

Hear from distinguished speakers committed to mental health.

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 John W. Burruss, MD 

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Walter L. Taylor, 
PHD, FACHE

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Sejal S. Mehta,
MD MBA

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Meagan Wittner, 
LMSW

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Community Partners

These partners help us bring awareness & support to those in need. 

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Magda A. Hernández
Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning

The Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning (MAHI) is a one-of-a-kind facility which serves to enhance professional learning and wellness for all Irving ISD staff. Hours of operation are Monday - Thursday from 7:30 AM - 7 PM and Fridays from 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM in order to accommodate the needs of the Irving ISD community.
 

Since being named Superintendent of Schools for Irving ISD in 2018, Hernández has emphasized the importance of the well-being of all employees. The facility was funded by 

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) monies that could only be used on capital projects, such as buildings, in north Irving. In addition to shared-use spaces, the MAHI will house the district’s community engagement departments, including HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), PE&CE (Parent Education & Community Involvement), and Adult Education and Literacy (AEL). Each of those programs has experienced tremendous growth under the leadership of Superintendent Hernández. The investment in these community departments seeks to increase parent engagement and adult learning, which research shows to have a significant positive impact on student achievement. 

At its February 26, 2024 meeting, the Irving ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to name the project, previously known as the Irving ISD Professional Learning and Wellness Center, after the current Superintendent for her dedication and vision for the district.

Symposium Agenda 2026

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08:30

Exhibitor Setup

09:00

Registration

10:00

Welcome & Opening
Welcome and Introduction - David Gutierrez
Introduction of IISD Superintendent - Magda A. Hern
ández
Superintendent Introduction - DR. Elba Garcia
Introduction of Keynote Speaker - Dr. John Burruss

10:15

Keynote Speaker
Dr. John Burruss
Metrocare Services

11:00

Session 1
Dr. Walter Taylor & Dr. Sejal S. Mehta
North Texas Behavioral Authority

12:00

Session 2
Meagan Wittner
Irving ISD

12:45

Exhibitor Networking

01:15

Lunch Sessions
Session A: Antonia Hernandez
Irving Family Advocacy Center

Session B: Dr. Mildred Betancourt
City of Irving Police & Fire Public Safety

Session C: April Sanderson, Director
Homeless Inclement Weather Shelter

01:45

Audience Q&A

01:55

Closing Remarks & Appreciation

02:00

Symposium Adjourns

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