Planning a career in dentistry, Christine Tran searched for a research program at a dental college to fill the summer lull between her junior and senior years while a student at the University of Houston in 2024. She wanted to learn ways dentistry impacts the broader health care system. 

“With a growing interest in dentistry, I was eager to find a program where I could contribute to oral health research that translates into tangible progress for the field,” she said. “I felt a strong inclination to look into research that could give back to (low-income) populations.” 

Tran found that in the Biomedical Informatics and Behavioral Sciences Summer Research Program at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas. She’s now a first-year dental student at A&M Dentistry, in part, thanks to what she learned at the nine-week program nicknamed BIBS. 

BIBS welcomes undergraduate and graduate students to conduct oral health research with a focus on public health. Students work on improving health communications and patient trust to improve community oral health.   

The coursework and activities focus on biomedical informatics and behavioral sciences. Students learn programming, statistics, tools for analyzing large datasets, and they are introduced to codes specific to dental procedures and dental public health; they also take field trips, including to A&M Dentistry’s M.C. Cooper Dental Clinic, which serves adults in the Frazier Community in South Dallas. 

BIBS aims to expand the number of dental professionals who understand the link between oral health and behavioral sciences. It’s the only program of its kind focused on oral health care, said Peggy Timothé, associate professor and program director of the dental public health residency in public health sciences at A&M Dentistry. 

“What I enjoy most is seeing how eager the summer interns are to learn about dentistry,” she said. “What surprises me most is that our program is the students’ first introduction to public health, especially dental public health.” 

Funded with a $125,000 grant from the National Library of Medicine, BIBS offers seven spots for students this summer. The deadline to apply is Feb. 27. More information and applications are available at Biomedical Informatics and Behavioral Sciences (BIBS) Summer Research Program. 

Each accepted undergraduate student will receive a $5,502 stipend and must have completed at least one year of college. Each accepted graduate student will receive a $6,500 stipend. 

While it’s hosted by A&M Dentistry, students in all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply if they’re interested in oral public health research and careers in research after graduation, said Timothé and Matthew Garcia, program coordinator in public health sciences at A&M Dentistry. 

Each student pairs with a mentor to develop a plan and conduct research. Mentors include A&M Dentistry faculty and other dental professionals from across the United States, both in person and remotely.  

“We are planning for more in-person learning,” Timothé said. “We also want to focus more on coding skills.” 

Students present their research at the Summer Undergraduate Research Poster Session in College Station.  

Tran said the internship introduced her to the intricacies of Medicaid, the federal-state health insurance program that helps pay for the health care of low-income people. That includes the trend of decreasing reimbursements for providers. 

“My experience in the program has fueled my passion for public health advocacy, and I think the discipline of public health in dentistry is underappreciated…,” Tran said. “There’s a big need for continued research in public health for the betterment of everyone.” 

Nearly 700 attendees gathered at the The Stewpot’s 18^th annual Soup’s On Luncheon and Art Show, presented by H-E-B/Central Market, held at Thompson Dallas on Monday, February 2.

The event featured an art show including 100 curated pieces of original art created by artists from The Stewpot Art Program, soups by 10 local celebrity chefs, and a meaningful conversation with luncheon speaker Hailee Kaleem Wright, all woven together around the luncheon theme of “Living in Harmony.”

Featured speaker Hailee Kaleem Wright, singer, songwriter and actor, shared her story of resilience—about overcoming homelessness twice on her rise to Broadway stardom, about holding on to her faith and to little moments that helped her keep going, and about the dignity she witnessed at The Stewpot that stood in contrast to her family’s dehumanizing experiences when seeking help.

“The [Stewpot] campus is incredible,” Kaleem Wright said. “On my tour, I kept hearing them say ‘neighbor’ and ‘our friends here’ and ‘our family here.’ There were very specific words they were using that I picked up on immediately because it was so different from what my experience was. And that was really heartwarming." 

Kaleem Wright made waves as Catherine of Aragon in “SIX: The Musical” and recently captivated audiences as Satine in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” The Broadway star surprised luncheon attendees with a beautiful performance of “Firework.”

Brenda Snitzer, executive director of The Stewpot, thanked the community for making the move to the former CitySquare campus possible last year and celebrated the growth of The Stewpot’s programs. Since taking over the Food Pantry last year, demand has grown by 50 percent, and the program is serving more than 300 households daily, in addition to the 900 hot meals served every day at The Bridge downtown.

Hosted by The Stewpot Alliance, the event was co-chaired by community leaders Cory and Shane Bowenand Ashley and Danny Ellis, and retired Dallas Regional Chamber president and CEO Dale Petroskeyserved as honorary chair. NBC 5 anchor Deborah Ferguson emceed the luncheon. Since 2008, Soup’s On has raised more than $5 million for Dallas neighbors experiencing homelessness and poverty.

Chef Brian C. Luscher of 33 Restaurant Group (Suburban Yacht Club, Union Bear, Taverna Rossa), along with nine other local chefs, created soups in honor of The Stewpot’s legacy of feeding the hungry. This year’s chefs included Jeff Bekavac, Goodwins; J. Chastain, Duro Hospitality (Sister, The Charles, El Carlos Elegante); Omar Flores, Big Dill Hospitality (Casa Brasa, Muchacho Tex-Mex, Whistle Britches, Even Coast); Danyele McPherson, Leela’s Wine Bar; Janice Provost, Parigi; Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman, Oh Hi! Hospitality (AM/FM, Puerto Cocina & Bar); Jeramie Robison, Thompson Dallas; Abraham Salum, Salum; and special guest chef Adam Bazaldua from Dallas City Council.

Founded in 1975 as a ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas to feed people on the streets downtown, The Stewpot has served more than 9 million meals and has grown to provide comprehensive services and a community of support for people experiencing poverty and homelessness, including programs that stabilize, house and enrich the lives of Dallas neighbors. These include helping people recover nearly 115,000 vital ID documents to access services and employment, funding 233 four-year scholarships for college or vocational school since 1991 and helping provide housing for 385 people since its rapid rehousing program began in 2021.

Garages of America, the pioneer of luxury garage ownership, has expanded its Allen community with nine new luxury garage suites located at 2137 Chelsea Blvd in Allen, Texas. These new garages are adjacent to the original 77-unit development, which opened in January 2019 and quickly sold out thanks to its prime location near Stacy Rd. and Highway 75.

This expansion follows the recent addition of new garages at Garages of America’s Carrollton community in November 2025. Collin County continues to be one of the strongest markets for Garages of America’s unique concept—customizable, deeded garages designed for collectors, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists. Since opening its first location on West Plano Parkway in 2016, Garages of America has grown steadily with communities in Plano, Allen, Frisco, and beyond.

“The continued demand for our luxury garage suites speaks to the strength of the concept, especially in Collin County,” said Jack Griffin, co-founder of Garages of America. “Our original communities sold out quickly, and we’re seeing that same momentum in Allen with this expansion—six of the nine new garages are already sold.”

Garages of America also has a new development underway in Garland (Firewheel), located at the corner of President George Bush Turnpike and Ranger Drive. This upcoming community marks their first-ever garage project located immediately off a major highway and will feature 71 luxury garage suites and 10 flex office-warehouse units.

Since its founding in 2016, Garages of America has sold over 700 luxury garages across Dallas, Houston, and Austin. “Our owners aren’t just purchasing space—they’re investing in real estate that reflects their lifestyle,” Griffin added. “These garages become places to gather, collaborate, and enjoy shared interests, while also owning a secure, high-quality asset that has consistently appreciated in value. Our continued expansion is a direct result of that demand.”

Current and upcoming Garages of America communities include:

• Allen, TX (originally 77 garages built in 2019; expanded with 9 additional garages in January 2026)
• Carrollton, TX (originally 69 garages built in 2020; expanded on the adjacent property with 67 additional garages in November 2025)
• Frisco, TX (originally 106 garages built in 2020; expanded with 52 additional garages at a second location in April 2025 just one mile from the original)
• Dallas, TX (Love Field area)
• Garland, TX (Firewheel)
• Katy, TX (Houston)
• Lakeway, TX (Austin)
• The Woodlands, TX (Houston)
• Plano, TX
• Roanoke, TX

Founded in 2014 by real estate investor Fred Gans and former Le Mans race car driver and developer Jack Griffin, Garages of America pioneered the luxury garage ownership concept with its first community in Plano, Texas. The company has since expanded across Dallas, Houston, and Austin. For more information, visit garagesofamerica.com.

Breakthrough T1D will host its North Texas Community Summit on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Irving Convention Center (500 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039). This annual FREE event brings together individuals and families affected by Type 1 diabetes (T1D) for a day of education, inspiration and connection. See below* and online for full schedule. 

Open to families, adults, caregivers and those newly diagnosed, the summit offers attendees the opportunity to learn from leading medical experts, explore the latest advancements in T1D technology and treatments, hear empowering stories from T1D champions, and connect with others who understand life with T1D. Spanish language programming and resources are also offered.

“This community summit is not only educational, but it reminds people they are not alone,” said Amy Camp, territory executive director of the Dallas, Fort Worth and Oklahoma Chapters of Breakthrough T1D. “When families come together to learn, share experiences and hear about the progress being made, it provides both practical support and real hope for the future.”

Summit breakout sessions cover topics such as exercise and T1D; mental health support for parents of children with T1D as well as adults living with T1D; new technology and treatment options; nutrition, women’s health and school-based support. Additionally, youth programming is offered, and vendor exhibits, resource tables and networking opportunities are available throughout the day.

The event features a keynote presentation by Anastasia Albanese-O’Neill, Ph.D., APRN, CDCES, community screening and clinical trials education director at Breakthrough T1D, where she has volunteered since her daughter was diagnosed in 2002. A former professor of pediatrics and nursing at the University of Florida, her research has been published in leading journals, and she has provided testimony at congressional hearings, The White House and in the Florida legislature. She was recognized as Diabetes Care and Education Specialist of the Year in 2023 by the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES). 

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. Interested participants may register online at https://cvent.me/y4d1Dw. For more information, visit
https://www.breakthrought1d.org/greaterdallastx/events/breakthrough-t1d-north-texas-community-summit-2025/ or email Tanya Conovaloff, Breakthrough T1D community engagement manager, at tconovaloff@breakthrought1d.org. 

“Living with Type 1 diabetes comes with challenges at every stage, and this summit is designed to replace fear and uncertainty with knowledge, support and practical tools for everyday life,” added Camp. “Join us on February 21 to learn, connect and discover the resources available to support you and your family.”

About Breakthrough T1D:
Founded in 1970 as the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDF) and renamed the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in 2001, the organization rebranded in 2024 as Breakthrough T1D to reflect a bold commitment to improving the lives of both children and adults living with type 1 diabetes. As the leading global organization driving T1D research, advocacy and community engagement, Breakthrough T1D accelerates progress toward cures and better treatments while making everyday life easier for everyone affected. The North Texas and Oklahoma Territory comprises the Dallas, Fort Worth and Oklahoma Chaptersthat host major fundraising events across the region, including the annual luncheon in Dallas, galas in Dallas, Fort Worth, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City as well as local walks in The Colony, Durant, Tulsa, Fort Worth, and Oklahoma City. Visit breakthrought1d.org/GreaterDallasTX, email greaterdallastx@BreakthroughT1D.org, or call 214-373-9808.

# # #

*Schedule

• Arrival & Check- In - 9:00 a.m. 
• Resource Row & Vendor Tables - 9:30-10:30 a.m.
• Grab n' Go Lunch - 10:30-11:00 a.m. 
• Keynote Presentation - 11:00 a.m.-12:00 pm. 

• Spanish programming: 11:00 a.m.-2:00 pm. 
• Youth Ambassador Orientation: 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 

• Break - 12:10 PM - 12:20 p.m. 
• Breakout Sessions 1 - 12:20-1:05 p.m. 
• Break - 1:05-1:15 p.m. 
• Breakout Sessions 2 - 1:15-2:00 pm. 

Grant Halliburton Foundation is marking its 20th anniversary in 2026, commemorating two decades of work focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention education for North Texas communities. Founded in 2006, the Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals with its mental health education, resources, and support programs.

Throughout the year, the Foundation will recognize this milestone by highlighting its history, amplifying its mission and impact, and presenting its signature annual events through a 20th anniversary lens.

“Out of the grief of losing my brother, Grant, to suicide, my parents, Vanita and Alan, and I co-founded Grant Halliburton Foundation in 2006, fueled by the desire to help save others from such devastating loss,” said Amy McCloskey, Foundation co-founder. “What began as a way to honor Grant’s memory has grown into an organization dedicated to helping young people and families navigate mental health challenges and prevent suicide.”

The Foundation’s earliest efforts were rooted in art and creativity. From the time Grant Halliburton could grasp a pencil, he expressed himself through his art. In 2006, Grant Halliburton’s artwork was featured in an exhibition titled Journey, and the Foundation awarded its first art scholarship to a graduating student from Plano West Senior High School, where Grant attended high school. That inaugural event laid the foundation for a mission that has grown to bring lifesaving help and hope to young people and families today.

In recognition of that history, the Foundation will host a 20th Anniversary Art Show in September during National Suicide Prevention Month, reimagining its first event with community programming, educational activations, and opportunities for reflection and connection, centered around an exhibition of Grant’s artwork. Additional details will be announced later this year.

“Grant was an artist in the truest sense of the word, and he was extremely talented in art and music. His vibrant, creative spirit—and his deep love for people—continue to inspire the work we do today,” McCloskey said.

Other anniversary-focused programming in 2026 includes a Galleria Dallas Gallery Wall installation in May during Mental Health Awareness Month, as well as the Foundation’s annual fundraising events, including Beacon of Hope featuring Steve Burns (March 13), Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit (May 14), and The Hope Party (Nov. 20).

“Our 20th anniversary is both a celebration and a call to action,” Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, said. “As we celebrate throughout the year, these events represent more than milestones on a calendar—they reflect the community of supporters, volunteers, and partners, who make our work possible.”

Suicide remains a critical public health concern. National data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show suicide is the second-leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24 in the United States. In Texas, on average, we lose a teen to suicide every day, and two per week in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, underscoring the ongoing need for prevention, education and early intervention.

“We’ve made meaningful progress in changing the conversation around youth mental health, and we know our work is making a difference,” Hall said. “When young people are supported early, and communities are equipped with the right resources, lives can be changed. That belief, and the hope it brings, will continue to guide our work for the next 20 years and beyond.”

GRANT HALLIBURTON FOUNDATION MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION AND RESOURCES

Youth Education
Grant Halliburton Foundation offers presentations for K–12 students that address key aspects of mental health in engaging and age-appropriate ways. Topics include stress management, resilience, depression, bullying, and suicide prevention.

Adult Education
Presentations for parents, educators, and professionals focus on promoting mental wellness, building resilience, and recognizing warning signs of depression and suicidal crisis in youth.

Peer Helpers PLUS
Peer Helpers PLUS is a comprehensive, school-based peer-to-peer suicide prevention and support program that empowers students with leadership skills, character development, and healthy coping strategies. The program fosters connection and belonging while helping students thrive academically and personally.

When Life Hands You Teenagers
When Life Hands You Teenagers is an annual conference held each September, featuring expert speakers on adolescent mental health. The event is open to parents, educators, counselors, mentors, and anyone who lives or works with teens.

Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line
The Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line helps callers find mental health and substance use resources that fit their needs. This free helpline connects individuals with trained mental health navigators who provide guidance and information about services in their area. Call 972-525-8181 Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Spanish-language assistance is available.

HereForTexas.com
Developed by Grant Halliburton Foundation, HereForTexas.com is a searchable online database of Texas mental health providers and resources. Users can search by provider type, mental health concern, age group, language, location, payment options, and other helpful filters.

Coffee Days and Charlas Con un Cafecito
The Foundation offers Coffee Days and Charlas con un Cafecito peer support groups in English and Spanish. Both groups are for moms and female caretakers of young people with mental health and emotional health conditions, offering opportunities to share experiences, resources and information.

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 prevent suicide by providing education, resources and support for children, teen and young adult mental health. For 20 years, the Foundation has provided mental health education and training to more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help and support through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools provide easy access for Texans seeking information and resources for mental health and substance abuse. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

2026 FOUNDATION EVENTS

MARCH 2026
• 17th Annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon
March 13 | Omni Dallas Hotel
Featuring a conversation with Steve Burns, original host of “Blue’s Clues,” focused on mental health, burnout, and the importance of asking for help.

APRIL 2026
• National Volunteer Month Event
Date and Location TBD
Recognition of the volunteers whose dedication has supported the Foundation’s mission for 20 years and helped expand its reach across North Texas.

MAY 2026
• Mental Health Awareness Month
Month-long education and awareness

• Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit
May 14 | Longhorn Ballroom
The signature fundraising event of Eric Nadel, Legendary Radio Voice of the Texas Rangers, benefiting the Foundation’s youth mental health education and suicide prevention efforts.

• Galleria Dallas Gallery Wall
Month-long visual installation highlighting the Foundation’s mission and 20 years of impact.

SEPTEMBER 2026
• 20th Anniversary Art Show Exhibition
A special month-long exhibition commemorating the Foundation’s origins and its very first event in 2006—an art show featuring Grant Halliburton’s artwork—reimagined with weekly events, activations, and community engagement.

• National Suicide Prevention Month
Education, outreach, and awareness initiatives focused on prevention, connection, and access to support.

• When Life Hands You Teenagers Conference
Date TBD | Plano Event Center
A mental health conference for parents, educators, and anyone who lives or works with teens.

• North Texas Giving Day
September 17
A community-wide call to support lifesaving mental health programs and resources.

NOVEMBER 2026
• 17th Annual Hope Party
November 20 | The Statler
The Foundation’s signature fundraising gala celebrating hope, community, and 20 years of impact.