“I’m Lisa Brunsvold, the VP of Development and Donor Services at the San Antonio Area Foundation (SAAFDN). It’s been my privilege to work alongside the San Antonio Area African American Community Fund (SAAAACF),” said Lisa Brunsvold on the opening of her pre dance video that played as she walked onto the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts stage on Saturday, August 21, 2021, for the 12th Annual Renaissance with the Stars Gala.

“What easier way is there to demonstrate support for the great work of what that fund is doing in the community than…All I’ve got to do is dance,” continued Lisa on the video, after a warm introduction by Sterling Crisp Brannon, one of the emcees for the night, who wore a spectacular silver and dark grey sequin outfit that was befitting of the event’s theme, “San Antonio LIVE & LIT.”

Lisa and the other participants did more than dance. They raised much needed funds in support of the mission of SAAAACF, which is to promote and advocate for financial philanthropy to enhance the quality of living of the African American community in the San Antonio Area.

Watch Lisa’s Pre Dance Video:

Lisa expressed the most challenging part of this experience was having to retract her thoughts about herself having a lot of rhythm and natural dancing ability when compared to her professional dancing partner, Lee Rios, who is so fluid and seems to dance salsa in his sleep.

“I do think we’re going to win because I think we’re just good,” exclaimed Lisa towards the end of the video as Lee pulls her off camera while confidently saying, “Let’s dance!”

The dance music began and Lisa’s beautifully choreographed performance started as Lee swung Lisa through his legs as she smiled at the crowd.

The smiling continued all night as Lisa enjoyed both the recognition as the Renaissance with the Stars 2021 Champion and the realization she helped raise over $30,000 towards the event total that supports a great cause!


“The impact of  Renaissance with the Stars 2021 will be far reaching; the partnerships and proceeds stimulate our ability to strengthen nonprofits in the community,  lead social justice initiatives, and fund African American owned businesses,” said Bobby Blount, Chairman, San Antonio Area African American Community Fund.

To learn more about the San Antonio Area African American Community Fund’s programs and volunteer opportunities, please visit their website at www.saaaacf.org.