Sally Dowis
God led Sally to her destiny . She is one of three children who grew up in the north Dallas area . Her family dynamics were never dull . She learned important lessons from her grandmother , who owned an “ old age home ” with 15 to 20 residents . Sally learned work ethics and to value and care for everyone regardless of their circumstance .
During her teen years she developed a love for church music in service to God , from her Minister of Music and Youth at
her church . This minister also taught her how to perform in front of large groups . Dowis always felt she would be a Minister of Music . However God spoke to her in a very personal way , to change her career plans .
“ God spoke to me and said I was going to be a social worker ,” said Dowis . My life was dramatically changed , after accepting Christ as my Lord & Savior , and realizing my calling was not church ministry .
Dowis graduated from Richardson High School and later attended Midwestern State University . She also attended Sam Houston State Uuniversity and University of Houston for graduate school .
Dowis moved to Huntsville in 1979 for school and began her career at Child Protective Services . Her work moved her to the next assignment with Huntsville Independent School District . Dowis is a Licensed Master Social Worker with the district ’ s McKinney-Vento Homeless Program and Social Services . When asked to described a typical day , Dowis said “ nothing is typical when your primary role is to help people in their time of need . My role is to support the schools however I can , so every student can have success .”
Her job does not allow her to feel finished or settled . There is always something that needs to be done .
Dowis ’ jobs requires compassion and understanding . Two individuals who influenced her during the early years and remain a quiet influence to her are Jack Haney and Ann Baker . Jack would always listen and guide her . Judge Baker never accepted anything other than the very best from her . Dowis continues to hold dear the lessons she learned early in her professional life . They have shaped her philosophy on life , “ simply be kind to each other and help others in whatever way you can . Everyone has the ability to do both of these things . Its all about choice .” said Dowis .
Dowis loves spending time with friends and family , going places or relaxing at home and watching television . When asked where would she rather live , Texas was number one on the list , if she could skip July , August and September .
Dowis is looking forward to retirement in the next couple of years , after she learns to manage one of the down falls of a social worker - “ feeling responsible for everyone ’ s happiness and well being .”
Written by Dee Howard Mullins
LoneStarFamily . org 936-539-4004
OUR LOCATIONS Conroe • Grangerland • Huntsville • Spring • Willis
12 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2022