In celebration of Women’s History Month, the International Management District (IMD) is proud to highlight three extraordinary women whose leadership, service, and advocacy have enriched the Alief community for decades: Karen Loper, Sarah Winkler, and Barbara Quattro. Each has dedicated herself to the neighborhood’s well-being, transforming schools, public spaces, and community engagement in ways that resonate far beyond their individual roles.

Karen Loper has been a resident of Alief since the early 1970s and became one of the founding board members of the International Management District when it launched in 2007. She helped shape the district’s direction, particularly through her work on the Environmental Urban Design Committee. Known for championing litter abatement, graffiti removal, and beautifying the medians in Alief  with trees, flowers and greenery, Karen strives to keep Alief inviting for families and businesses alike. She also participated in several Alief ISD bond committees, helping the district allocate funds for improved facilities and programs such as the Career & Technology Center.

Reflecting on her drive for community betterment, Karen says, “We’ve done so many things together—planting trees, removing tons of trash monthly—if you see something that needs to be done, you’ve got to do it. If you don’t, who will? Sometimes it’s a constant struggle, but the reward is watching Alief become a place where people truly want to settle and raise their kids.”

Sarah Winkler devoted more than twenty years to the Alief ISD Board of Trustees, shaping district policies and championing programs that continue to impact thousands of students. During her tenure, she helped introduce full-day pre-K, to provide an excellent and innovative beginning for the young students, and worked to establish the Career & Technology Center, ensuring local students have access to both career and work  training and industry certifications. Working with the Texas Association of School Boards, she also testified before the legislature to advocate for better school funding and a balanced approach to testing. Yet it is her hands-on mentoring of students that remains most notable.

“People assume you’ve never faced hardships if you look settled now, but my upbringing taught me anyone can have setbacks,” Sarah explains. “That’s why I focus on students who need someone to believe in them. A teenager juggling school and a baby, or a child who’s lost a parent—if they know someone truly sees their worth, they can achieve amazing things.”

Barbara Quattro has lived in Alief for many years and is always working to make the community better. During her long  service on the Alief Super Neighborhood Council, Barbara saw her signature accomplishment become a reality. After a never ending fight for a Multi Service Center and Park for our neighborhood, the Alief Community Center is now welcoming many people of all ages.  She also plays a pivotal role in working with the IMD in developing and sustaining a community garden.Working hand-in-hand with fellow volunteers, she makes it possible for many people to have their own garden space. She advocates for welcoming residents of all backgrounds—such as refugee communities and local school students—to learn about planting and sustainability.  One cannot talk about Barbara without talking about planting trees, many trees. Her love of trees reflects her belief that beautification projects go beyond aesthetics by fostering a sense of ownership among neighbors. In each venture, she creates an inclusive environment that unites Alief’s diverse population in caring for the place they call home.

Together, Karen, Sarah, and Barbara have propelled Alief forward in unique yet deeply interconnected ways. Their work nurtures a district where students thrive in high-quality educational programs, where families can drive down our major streets and see less litter and more trees and flowers and residents forge stronger bonds through shared green spaces. During Women’s History Month, the International Management District applauds these three community leaders for their unwavering commitment to service. Their stories remind us that devoted individuals, united by empathy and determination, can reshape a neighborhood—and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.