Leading with Trust: Alfreda Norman on the Currency of Community

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Alfreda Norman, retired Senior Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, to explore a career defined by connection, trust, and community. From her beginnings in the Dallas Arts District to two decades of leadership at the Fed, Alfreda has built bridges between institutions and people — ensuring that economic growth includes every community it touches.

Alfreda reflects on the lessons that guided her leadership: seeing the world through a lens of abundance, building authentic relationships as the foundation of progress, and understanding that trust is your greatest currency. She shares how mentorship shaped her journey, why Dallas remains a hub for big ideas and collaboration, and how leaders can nurture equity and access by engaging deeply with those they serve. Whether you’re a community advocate, a corporate leader, or someone reimagining your next chapter, Alfreda’s story is a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership — reminding us that meaningful change begins with people who care about one another.

Episode Details: Episode 10, Season 2

Host: Lili Clark | Vice Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate, LH Capital, Inc. / Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Guest: Alfreda Norman | Retired Senior Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer: The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented. The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.