The 2024 Texas A&M University College of Dentistry's recent staff awards ceremony honored employees who not only work hard, but who are also dedicated to the school’s mission. Those winning awards included Jo Spears and Mary Jo Rodriguez in the Department of Comprehensive Dentistry, Staff Team Award; Carmina Castro and Claudia Monsivais, Staff Excellence Award; and Michael Derdeyn, New Employee Award. Continue reading to learn more about each award winner and the characteristics that make them stand out in the workplace.

Staff Team Award – Jo Spears and Mary Jo Rodriguez, Department of Comprehensive Dentistry

Jo Spears and Mary Jo Rodriguez work in the Department of Comprehensive Dentistry, the largest department at Texas A&M College of Dentistry. They recently worked together to assist more than 70 faculty members during the annual evaluation process, inputting data, scheduling one-on-one meetings with the department head and providing completed evaluations to individual faculty and to faculty affairs. They also worked together to assist in the hiring or increase in full-time employment for more than 20 faculty members and assisted in hiring multiple staff members. They provided extensive assistance for the Linda Niessen Lectureship and worked to ensure the Department of Comprehensive Dentistry is true to its mission of providing world-class education to first- through fourth-year students, as well as graduate students in both AEGD and prosthodontics.

Staff Excellence Award – Carmina Castro, Director of Instructional Design and Support Services, Office of Academic Affairs

Carmina Castro is a team player and provides exceptional service to all faculty/students. She received unanimous praise from the faculty for her efforts to work through issues with Canvas and ExamSoft, as well as helping build quizzes and exams, not only during business hours, but also after-hours and on weekends. Carmina understands that departments are understaffed in regard to administrative support and faculty, and she is always there to help. Carmina’s efficiency, attitude and follow-through are exemplary, creating a positive student experience.

Staff Excellence Award – Claudia Monsivais, Dental Assistant, Endodontics

Claudia Monsivais is a highly dedicated and exceptionally skilled dental assistant in our graduate endodontics clinic. Claudia is bilingual, fluent in both English and Spanish, greatly enhancing our ability to provide comprehensive care to a diverse patient population. She is known for her remarkable adaptability, proactive approach to problem-solving and commitment to excellence in patient care and clinic operations. One of her most remarkable contributions has been her exceptional management of the clinic scheduling, which she took on following recent changes with front desk operations. She ensures all residents are consistently busy in the clinic, optimizing their productivity and the number of cases they complete. Her ability to balance and prioritize the needs of both the clinic and the residents has resulted in a more streamlined and productive environment. Her positive attitude, reliability and ability to handle any situations with grace make her an invaluable asset to the graduate endodontic clinic.

New Employee Award – Michael Derdeyn, Lead Patient Services Associate, Clinical Affairs

Michael Derdeyn, upon hire, immediately demonstrated exceptional dedication to learning and quickly gained competence in both electronic health records, patient financial matters and scheduling patients in three very different clinical programs. He exemplifies professionalism and leadership skills beyond his current position and the ability to work successfully with patients, teammates and clinic leadership. As a result, Michael was promoted to lead PSA within months of his hire date and continues to excel and effectively embrace the mission of improving patient and customer service. Program leadership, staff and patients have all relayed their appreciation for Michael’s efforts, his critical thinking and collaborative efforts toward patient and program needs. Michael has proved he represents all six Aggie Core Values: respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity and selfless service.

Celebrity Guest Announcements for the Pop Culture Extravaganza begin with Clueless star Alicia Silverstone

FAN EXPO Dallas, the largest and most anticipated pop culture convention in Texas, returns to the Lone Star State from May 30 to June 1, 2025, at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. The massive event draws fans of all ages from across the state and beyond to celebrate everything from comic books and sci-fi to anime, gaming, and cosplay.

“We are getting a head-start on announcing what is sure to be an impressive lineup of celebrity guests, artists, and creators,” said Andrew Moyes, Senior Vice President of FAN EXPO Dallas. We are coming out of the gates with the iconic Alicia Silverstone, best known for her roles in Clueless, Blast from the Past, and Batman & Robin,” he continued. “The next few months, we will be curating an impressive roster of fandom favorites in advance of the three-day event where, every year, we invite fans far and wide to have a chance to meet their favorite stars, participate in Q&A panels, and snag autographs or photo ops,” continues Moyes.

In addition to the celebrity interactions, FAN EXPO Dallas creates a dynamic and inclusive environment for fans of all genres to connect and celebrate their passions. Artist Alley showcases a vibrant community of talented illustrators, writers, and designers, while the vendor hall is a treasure trove of collectibles, merchandise, and unique finds.

“With its diverse lineup and interactive experiences, FAN EXPO Dallas is more than just a convention—it's a celebration of fandom in all its forms. Whether you’re attending as a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, the convention fosters a sense of community and shared excitement. For families, the event provides kid-friendly zones and activities, making it an enjoyable experience for all generations,” says Moyes.

One of the highlights of FAN EXPO Dallas is its immersive programming that brings fans closer to the worlds they love. From exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming movies and TV shows to themed parties and live performances, the event offers a little something for everyone. The cosplay scene at FAN EXPO Dallas is especially noteworthy, with fans showcasing their creativity through stunning costumes inspired by beloved characters. To see the guest list, planned events and to purchase tickets, go to www.fanexpodallas.com

WHEN: FAN EXPO Dallas runs Friday, May 30 through Sunday, June 1, 2025

Friday, May 30, from 4:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.

Saturday, May 31, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Sunday, June 1, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

WHERE:

Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center located at 650 S. Griffin St., Dallas, TX 75202

COST:

Early bird price tickets (until January 30) start at $26, and children 5 and under are free. Full-price tickets start at $37.

Advanced price 3-day passes start at $89 (until January 30), and full-price 3-day passes start at $115. VIP Packages start at $519.

Hours and information are available at fanexpodallas.com.

ABOUT:  With over a million fans and counting, FAN EXPO HQ attracts pop culture enthusiasts, locally and internationally, to come together to celebrate all things fandom. Collectively, it hosts nearly one million fans annually at FAN EXPO Dallas™, MEGACON Orlando, FAN EXPO Canada™, FAN EXPO Boston™, FAN EXPO Denver, FAN EXPO San Francisco, CALGARY EXPO, FAN EXPO Chicago, FAN EXPO Philadelphia, FAN EXPO Portland, FAN EXPO New Orleans, FAN EXPO Cleveland, FAN EXPO Vancouver™, Toronto Comicon, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL, and EDMONTON EXPO.  The latest schedule of events is available here on their website, along with up-to-date ticket information.

North Texas’s Beloved Bar-B-Que Brand Celebrates the Newest North Texas Engagements

Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, a Texas barbecue tradition since 1974, is welcoming newly engaged couples to explore their array of wedding catering services, perfect for couples who want to bring Southern charm and mouthwatering flavor to their big day.

From intimate backyard gatherings to grand wedding receptions, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que offers a range of catering options designed to make your celebration as memorable as the vows you exchange. With over 50 years of barbecue expertise, Soulman’s brings bold flavors, impeccable service, and authentic Texas hospitality to every event.

“Our catering team is dedicated to ensuring that every couple’s special day is as stress-free and delicious as possible,” said Amber Polk, Catering Director at Soulman’s Bar-B-Que. “We know weddings are a time to bring family and friends together, and there’s no better way to do that than over great food.”

Custom Menus for Every Celebration

Soulman’s wedding catering services offer a variety of customizable menus featuring fan favorites like tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoked chicken, savory sides, and homemade desserts. Not limited bar-b-que fare, whether you’re envisioning a buffet-style service, or grab-and-go options, Soulman’s team will work with you to create the perfect spread for your guests.

Why Choose Soulman’s for Your Wedding?

• Authentic Texas Flavor: With tried-and-true recipes, Soulman’s delivers the smoky, savory barbecue that Texans know and love as well as more elevated choices for all palates.
• Flexible Packages: Tailored catering packages suit any size wedding and budget.
• Professional Service: Experienced catering staff handle every detail, from setup to cleanup, so you can focus on your celebration.
• Memorable Experience: Soulman’s catering adds a warm, welcoming atmosphere to your wedding, creating moments your guests won’t forget.

Booking Your Big Day

Couples interested in booking Soulman’s Bar-B-Que for their wedding can contact the catering team with this form:  https://soulmans.com/weddings/#contact or visit https://soulmans.com/weddings/ Early bookings are encouraged to secure availability.

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  Soulman’s original family recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020) and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 20 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst Grapevine Highway,  Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City,  Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at http://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

Drew Robinson,  former Major League Baseball player and current mental health advocate for the San Francisco Giants, will headline Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 16th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Tuesday, March 25, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Joining him as moderator is Eric Nadel, voice of the Texas Rangers and mental health advocate.

In 2020, Robinson miraculously survived a suicide attempt, resulting in a new-found purpose of helping others and destigmatizing mental health. After playing 12 seasons of professional baseball, Drew retired following the 2021 season to pursue a full-time role as a mental health advocate, the first of its kind in MLB. Leveraging his tagline, Strength Isn’t Always Physical®, Robinson is dedicated to sharing his journey and showcasing vulnerability to prevent suicide and promote mental health care.

Robinson said, “With many youth and young adults facing mental health challenges, it’s important that these issues are openly discussed and addressed. While it’s not easy to share my story, I hope to empower those struggling to speak up, ask for support, and remind them that they are not alone. I’m thankful for Grant Halliburton Foundation’s critical work and honored to support such an important cause.”

The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon supports Grant Halliburton Foundation’s work to provide education, resources and support for children, teen and young adult mental health. Event sponsorships and underwriting range from $600 to $25,000. Individual tickets go on sale in February for $250.To learn more and to purchase a sponsorship or underwriting opportunity, visit GrantHalliburton.org/boh.

Chris and Brent Bolding are the 2025 Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon co-chairs. The luncheon vice chairs are Amy and Michael Roseman. The founding luncheon chair is Barb Farmer.

Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said, “We invite you to join us for this important conversation with Drew Robinson, who will share his story of hope, recovery, and suicide prevention. Drew’s journey highlights the importance of vulnerability and knowing how to seek help for yourself or someone you love. Our moderator and friend, Eric Nadel, who has openly shared his mental health challenges, will guide this meaningful and impactful discussion.

Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to nearly 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals, thanks to funds raised from the Beacon of Hope Luncheon.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among Texas youth ages 10-24 (CDC). The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon aims to bring focus to the vital work needed to educate the North Texas community on adolescent mental health and suicide prevention. Through its work in North Texas schools and communities, Grant Halliburton Foundation aims to change this reality as it works to promote awareness and understanding of teen and young adult mental health and to prevent suicide.

About Drew Robinson: Robinson is a former Major League Baseball player, mental health advocate, and professional speaker. Born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, Drew was drafted by the Texas Rangers out of high school and went on to play parts of 12 seasons with the Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, and San Francisco Giants organizations. In 2020, Drew miraculously survived a suicide attempt resulting in a new-found purpose of helping others and destigmatizing mental health. 

Leveraging his tagline, Strength Isn’t Always Physical®, Drew is dedicated to sharing his journey and showcasing vulnerability to prevent suicide and promote mental health care.  Drew currently works in the mental health and wellness department with the San Francisco Giants where he advocates for player mental health and peer-to-peer support. Drew resides in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ellie. Follow Drew on Instagram @Drewrobbb.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation
Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness through a variety of avenues including education, conferences, collaboration and encouragement. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to more than 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals. The Foundation also offers Here For Texas, which includes HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

Drew Robinson,  former Major League Baseball player and current mental health advocate for the San Francisco Giants, will headline Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 16th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Tuesday, March 25, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Joining him as moderator is Eric Nadel, voice of the Texas Rangers and mental health advocate.

In 2020, Robinson miraculously survived a suicide attempt, resulting in a new-found purpose of helping others and destigmatizing mental health. After playing 12 seasons of professional baseball, Drew retired following the 2021 season to pursue a full-time role as a mental health advocate, the first of its kind in MLB. Leveraging his tagline, Strength Isn’t Always Physical®, Robinson is dedicated to sharing his journey and showcasing vulnerability to prevent suicide and promote mental health care.

Robinson said, “With many youth and young adults facing mental health challenges, it’s important that these issues are openly discussed and addressed. While it’s not easy to share my story, I hope to empower those struggling to speak up, ask for support, and remind them that they are not alone. I’m thankful for Grant Halliburton Foundation’s critical work and honored to support such an important cause.”

The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon supports Grant Halliburton Foundation’s work to provide education, resources and support for children, teen and young adult mental health. Event sponsorships and underwriting range from $600 to $25,000. Individual tickets go on sale in February for $250.To learn more and to purchase a sponsorship or underwriting opportunity, visit GrantHalliburton.org/boh.

Chris and Brent Bolding are the 2025 Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon co-chairs. The luncheon vice chairs are Amy and Michael Roseman. The founding luncheon chair is Barb Farmer.

Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said, “We invite you to join us for this important conversation with Drew Robinson, who will share his story of hope, recovery, and suicide prevention. Drew’s journey highlights the importance of vulnerability and knowing how to seek help for yourself or someone you love. Our moderator and friend, Eric Nadel, who has openly shared his mental health challenges, will guide this meaningful and impactful discussion.

Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to nearly 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals, thanks to funds raised from the Beacon of Hope Luncheon.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among Texas youth ages 10-24 (CDC). The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon aims to bring focus to the vital work needed to educate the North Texas community on adolescent mental health and suicide prevention. Through its work in North Texas schools and communities, Grant Halliburton Foundation aims to change this reality as it works to promote awareness and understanding of teen and young adult mental health and to prevent suicide.

About Drew Robinson: Robinson is a former Major League Baseball player, mental health advocate, and professional speaker. Born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, Drew was drafted by the Texas Rangers out of high school and went on to play parts of 12 seasons with the Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, and San Francisco Giants organizations. In 2020, Drew miraculously survived a suicide attempt resulting in a new-found purpose of helping others and destigmatizing mental health. 

Leveraging his tagline, Strength Isn’t Always Physical®, Drew is dedicated to sharing his journey and showcasing vulnerability to prevent suicide and promote mental health care.  Drew currently works in the mental health and wellness department with the San Francisco Giants where he advocates for player mental health and peer-to-peer support. Drew resides in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ellie. Follow Drew on Instagram @Drewrobbb.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation
Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness through a variety of avenues including education, conferences, collaboration and encouragement. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to more than 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals. The Foundation also offers Here For Texas, which includes HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.