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Texas Woman's University Lili Clark, Lee Cullum, Dr. Carine Feyten

More than 500 guests attended Texas Woman’s University’s 24th annual Dallas Leadership Luncheon on February 17 at the Hilton Anatole, where Dallas journalism icon Lee Cullum was presented with the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award. The honor recognizes a civic leader whose work reflects “an enduring commitment to education and service.”

The event raised a record $330,000 — more than double the amount raised last year — for graduate student scholarships.

Cullum, widely known as the former host of CEO, KERA’s long-running interview series with prominent business leaders, has built a distinguished journalism career that has included commentary for PBS News Hour and NPR’s All Things Considered, as well as service as editor of the editorial page of the Dallas Times Herald. She currently contributes to The Dallas Morning News and Patron Magazine, and writes a Substack column titled La Vie en Orange. Cullum was selected for what Chancellor Carine Feyten described as her “thoughtful storytelling and reporting that reflects a range of perspectives” and strengthens the community.

In her welcome remarks prior to introducing Cullum, Feyten underscored TWU’s growing impact.

“When people hear the name Texas Woman’s University, they sometimes assume they already know our story,” Feyten said. “They think we are a small institution…or a university with a proud history, but a limited future. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

Calling TWU “bold, modern and deeply relevant,” Feyten cited continued athletic success, expansion of the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences, the opening of the $107 million Health Sciences Center, and the success of the Dream Big fundraising campaign. She noted that TWU’s mission to expand opportunities for women has never been more urgent.

The luncheon also recognized the 2026 Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholars — LaTonya Seldon, Valeria Millinga, Faith A. Tissot, Bitali Islam, LaToya Huntley and Marissa C. Gomez — who represent the university’s five colleges and are completing graduate studies in occupational therapy, nutrition, nursing, molecular biology, special education and human resources. Seldon spoke on behalf of the group.

“TWU has been a pillar for me — a place to build both skills and community,” she said.

A highlight of the program was a conversation between Cullum and her granddaughter, Lili Clark, a senior associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Cullum shared intriguing anecdotes from her journalism career, including encounters with global leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Margaret Thatcher.

During the exchange, Cullum offered wisdom and insight drawn from decades in public life. “Do one thing at a time,” she advised. “Be calm after the change.” And, in advice that felt especially fitting for an event focused on supporting students: “Don’t just think of the answer. Become the answer.”

She also spoke about the university’s impact, noting that TWU “gives opportunities to women who might not otherwise have them — and gives our community the trained and educated women that we need.”

Near the close of the program, Cullum invoked the words of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had passed away earlier that day: “Keep hope alive.” When asked what gives her hope now, she pointed to the scholars in attendance and to her granddaughter beside her.

“Young people like you,” she said. “Anyone has the ability to forge on, no matter what.”

Another highlight of the luncheon was the surprise announcement of the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship. Guests contributed $35,000 during the event, and the fund reached its $50,000 endowment level within 24 hours.

The luncheon was chaired by Lindsay Billingsley, Lucy Burns and Sumner Billingsley, with Lucy Billingsley serving as Honorary Chair and Ralph Hawkins as Honorary Chair Emeritus. Major sponsors included the Jane Bosart Foundation, the Billingsley/Burns Family, Luther King Capital Management, the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, Lyda Hill Philanthropies and Sue S. Bancroft.

To learn more about the luncheon or to support the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship, visit https://twu.edu/advancement

**PHOTO CREDIT: Texas Woman's University** 

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Texas Woman's University Lili Clark, Lee Cullum, Dr. Carine Feyten

More than 500 guests attended Texas Woman’s University’s 24th annual Dallas Leadership Luncheon on February 17 at the Hilton Anatole, where Dallas journalism icon Lee Cullum was presented with the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award. The honor recognizes a civic leader whose work reflects “an enduring commitment to education and service.”

The event raised a record $330,000 — more than double the amount raised last year — for graduate student scholarships.

Cullum, widely known as the former host of CEO, KERA’s long-running interview series with prominent business leaders, has built a distinguished journalism career that has included commentary for PBS News Hour and NPR’s All Things Considered, as well as service as editor of the editorial page of the Dallas Times Herald. She currently contributes to The Dallas Morning News and Patron Magazine, and writes a Substack column titled La Vie en Orange. Cullum was selected for what Chancellor Carine Feyten described as her “thoughtful storytelling and reporting that reflects a range of perspectives” and strengthens the community.

In her welcome remarks prior to introducing Cullum, Feyten underscored TWU’s growing impact.

“When people hear the name Texas Woman’s University, they sometimes assume they already know our story,” Feyten said. “They think we are a small institution…or a university with a proud history, but a limited future. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

Calling TWU “bold, modern and deeply relevant,” Feyten cited continued athletic success, expansion of the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences, the opening of the $107 million Health Sciences Center, and the success of the Dream Big fundraising campaign. She noted that TWU’s mission to expand opportunities for women has never been more urgent.

The luncheon also recognized the 2026 Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholars — LaTonya Seldon, Valeria Millinga, Faith A. Tissot, Bitali Islam, LaToya Huntley and Marissa C. Gomez — who represent the university’s five colleges and are completing graduate studies in occupational therapy, nutrition, nursing, molecular biology, special education and human resources. Seldon spoke on behalf of the group.

“TWU has been a pillar for me — a place to build both skills and community,” she said.

A highlight of the program was a conversation between Cullum and her granddaughter, Lili Clark, a senior associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Cullum shared intriguing anecdotes from her journalism career, including encounters with global leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Margaret Thatcher.

During the exchange, Cullum offered wisdom and insight drawn from decades in public life. “Do one thing at a time,” she advised. “Be calm after the change.” And, in advice that felt especially fitting for an event focused on supporting students: “Don’t just think of the answer. Become the answer.”

She also spoke about the university’s impact, noting that TWU “gives opportunities to women who might not otherwise have them — and gives our community the trained and educated women that we need.”

Near the close of the program, Cullum invoked the words of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had passed away earlier that day: “Keep hope alive.” When asked what gives her hope now, she pointed to the scholars in attendance and to her granddaughter beside her.

“Young people like you,” she said. “Anyone has the ability to forge on, no matter what.”

Another highlight of the luncheon was the surprise announcement of the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship. Guests contributed $35,000 during the event, and the fund reached its $50,000 endowment level within 24 hours.

The luncheon was chaired by Lindsay Billingsley, Lucy Burns and Sumner Billingsley, with Lucy Billingsley serving as Honorary Chair and Ralph Hawkins as Honorary Chair Emeritus. Major sponsors included the Jane Bosart Foundation, the Billingsley/Burns Family, Luther King Capital Management, the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, Lyda Hill Philanthropies and Sue S. Bancroft.

To learn more about the luncheon or to support the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship, visit https://twu.edu/advancement

**PHOTO CREDIT: Texas Woman's University** 

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Texas Woman's University Lili Clark, Lee Cullum, Dr. Carine Feyten

More than 500 guests attended Texas Woman’s University’s 24th annual Dallas Leadership Luncheon on February 17 at the Hilton Anatole, where Dallas journalism icon Lee Cullum was presented with the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award. The honor recognizes a civic leader whose work reflects “an enduring commitment to education and service.”

The event raised a record $330,000 — more than double the amount raised last year — for graduate student scholarships.

Cullum, widely known as the former host of CEO, KERA’s long-running interview series with prominent business leaders, has built a distinguished journalism career that has included commentary for PBS News Hour and NPR’s All Things Considered, as well as service as editor of the editorial page of the Dallas Times Herald. She currently contributes to The Dallas Morning News and Patron Magazine, and writes a Substack column titled La Vie en Orange. Cullum was selected for what Chancellor Carine Feyten described as her “thoughtful storytelling and reporting that reflects a range of perspectives” and strengthens the community.

In her welcome remarks prior to introducing Cullum, Feyten underscored TWU’s growing impact.

“When people hear the name Texas Woman’s University, they sometimes assume they already know our story,” Feyten said. “They think we are a small institution…or a university with a proud history, but a limited future. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

Calling TWU “bold, modern and deeply relevant,” Feyten cited continued athletic success, expansion of the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences, the opening of the $107 million Health Sciences Center, and the success of the Dream Big fundraising campaign. She noted that TWU’s mission to expand opportunities for women has never been more urgent.

The luncheon also recognized the 2026 Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholars — LaTonya Seldon, Valeria Millinga, Faith A. Tissot, Bitali Islam, LaToya Huntley and Marissa C. Gomez — who represent the university’s five colleges and are completing graduate studies in occupational therapy, nutrition, nursing, molecular biology, special education and human resources. Seldon spoke on behalf of the group.

“TWU has been a pillar for me — a place to build both skills and community,” she said.

A highlight of the program was a conversation between Cullum and her granddaughter, Lili Clark, a senior associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Cullum shared intriguing anecdotes from her journalism career, including encounters with global leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Margaret Thatcher.

During the exchange, Cullum offered wisdom and insight drawn from decades in public life. “Do one thing at a time,” she advised. “Be calm after the change.” And, in advice that felt especially fitting for an event focused on supporting students: “Don’t just think of the answer. Become the answer.”

She also spoke about the university’s impact, noting that TWU “gives opportunities to women who might not otherwise have them — and gives our community the trained and educated women that we need.”

Near the close of the program, Cullum invoked the words of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had passed away earlier that day: “Keep hope alive.” When asked what gives her hope now, she pointed to the scholars in attendance and to her granddaughter beside her.

“Young people like you,” she said. “Anyone has the ability to forge on, no matter what.”

Another highlight of the luncheon was the surprise announcement of the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship. Guests contributed $35,000 during the event, and the fund reached its $50,000 endowment level within 24 hours.

The luncheon was chaired by Lindsay Billingsley, Lucy Burns and Sumner Billingsley, with Lucy Billingsley serving as Honorary Chair and Ralph Hawkins as Honorary Chair Emeritus. Major sponsors included the Jane Bosart Foundation, the Billingsley/Burns Family, Luther King Capital Management, the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, Lyda Hill Philanthropies and Sue S. Bancroft.

To learn more about the luncheon or to support the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship, visit https://twu.edu/advancement

**PHOTO CREDIT: Texas Woman's University** 

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Dr. Douglas J. Dingwerth says OSANT is honored to be a part of the vibrant growth in McKinney and Prosper.

Oral Surgery Associates of North Texas (OSANT), a private oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) practice with multiple locations in North Texas, has opened two additional locations – one in McKinney and one in Prosper. They are located at 2164 N. Lake Forest Drive, Ste. 712, in McKinney; and 540 W. Frontier Parkway, Suite 100, in Prosper.

“Our practice has been treating patients in North Texas since 1984, and since that time, we’ve seen a lot of growth both in terms of our practice and in terms of the communities that we serve. McKinney and Prosper are growing, vibrant communities and we’re honored to be a part of that growth,” said Douglas J. Dingwerth, DMD, MD; senior managing partner of OSANT. “Adding locations here will enable us to better meet the needs of our patients and referrals.”

The McKinney and Prosper offices are open for business, with the doctors treating new and existing patients at both locations. William R. Walstad, DDS, leads the McKinney care team, and Phillip Newton, DDS, MD leads the Prosper care team. Both are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, the highest credential that can be obtained in the specialty, according to the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Dr. Walstad has been treating patients at OSANT since 1999, specializing in a wide variety of OMS services. Dr. Walstad grew up in Richardson and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas. He earned his DDS from Baylor College of Dentistry (now Texas A&M College of Dentistry) and completed his OMS residency through Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas.

Actively involved with a number of professional organizations, Dr. Walstad is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Dallas County Dental Association. In addition, he is a past president of the North Texas Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

Dr. Newton grew up in west Texas and earned his bachelor’s degree from Tulane University, his DDS from Baylor College of Dentistry and his MD from Texas Tech Health Science Center. He completed his internship in general surgery and his OMS residency at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, and joined OSANT in 2016, immediately following his graduation.

During his residency, Dr. Newton gave back to the community by participating as a co-founder and dental care provider at Lubbock Impact Free Dental Clinic, providing free dental care to those in need. Currently, Dr. Newton is a clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Dentistry. Dr. Newton is a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Dallas County Dental Association.

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20260211_SC_ShivamMehtaPortAdultPatientStudy (2).j Dr. Shivam Mehta

Dr. Shivam Mehta, clinical assistant professor and program director in orthodontics at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, and other faculty members will study mini-screw-assisted rapid palatal expander types and techniques on 40 patients in Dallas-Fort Worth. 

Dr. Shivam Mehta, clinical assistant professor and program director in orthodontics at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, recently received a $40,000 grant to study jaw expander types and techniques in teens and young adults undergoing orthodontic treatment. 

The American Association of Orthodontists Foundation grant will enable Mehta to evaluate two standard mini-screw-assisted rapid palatal expander protocols for reshaping narrow jaws to determine which treatment design is most effective. Studying patients ages 15 to 25 in both A&M Dentistry’s clinic and in private practices in Dallas-Fort Worth, he will research bone-anchored MARPE against hybrid MARPE that anchor expanders to bone and teeth.  

“Which one orthodontists use is often dependent on where they studied, continuing education they received and what they feel comfortable using,” Mehta said. 

He said bone-anchored MARPEs tend to lead to higher stress on palatal mini screws, while the hybrid technique puts higher stress on molars. 

Part of the study will research how each treatment affects the jaw and jaw structures. Mehta, who joined A&M Dentistry in 2024 from Marquette University School of Dentistry, said this could be among the first studies of MARPEs since their introduction in 2010.  

The study could affect millions of patients’ treatment plans. 

Posterior crossbite, in which the upper molars and premolars sit inside their lower counterparts, causing misalignment, is a common reason for teens and adults to require MARPEs. Mehta said previous studies showed that 14%-20% of the global population has a posterior crossbite, and that correcting a crossbite is easiest in young children because their jaws are still growing and more malleable; traditional expanders are most effective in such cases. 

However, as more adults seek orthodontic care, MARPEs are necessary to help many avoid surgery to expand narrow maxillary jaws. Roughly one in three orthodontic patients is an adult, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.  

Some simulation studies have found bone-anchored MARPEs more advantageous for adult patients with periodontal disease, but Mehta noted that further study is necessary. Mehta further stated that a high percentage of his patients at A&M Dentistry and in private practice are adults. Plans are to study 20 patients with bone-anchored expanders and 20 with hybrid expanders.  

Patients have not yet been selected, but the pool will include A&M Dentistry patients and patients at both myKIDSdds in Dallas and Jolley Orthodontics in Trophy Club. Dr. Glenn Cohen, an orthodontist at myKIDSdds, and Dr. Cameron Jolley, an orthodontist and the owner of Jolley Orthodontics, are part-time clinical faculty members at A&M Dentistry. 

Screening at A&M Dentistry will likely begin in the spring, Mehta said. Those chosen will be new patients who haven’t had orthodontic treatment. 

“We have a tendency in our office to use a hybrid tooth/bone-borne MARPE because there is no clear evidence that one is superior to the other,” Jolley said. “This study will answer relevant clinical questions regarding this technique, which should improve outcomes for our patients.” 

Mehta said MARPEs can help adults of all ages, but the study will focus on adolescents and young adults because their palates have begun to fuse but remain flexible. Patients will be studied for six months. Future research may include studying older age groups. 

“I hope to have the first results by early next year,” he said. “Potentially, a second study could look at the long-term outcomes – possibly as long as two years – and bring in some of the same patients.”  

 

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit: Peterson Management Group

Blue Goose Cantina is turning up the heat beginning Monday, March 9 with a limited-time menu from Augie’s Cocina, bringing crave-worthy dishes and refreshing sips to the table. Available for a short time only, the new offerings spotlight fresh, crave-worthy flavors, house-made touches and the signature flair guests have loved since 1984.

Leading the lineup are Birria Flautas ($16). Tender birria blended with Jack cheese is rolled in a flour tortilla, fried to a golden crisp and topped with lettuce, cilantro cream, spicy creamosa, pico de gallo and queso fresco. The dish is served with Spanish rice and rich consommé for dipping.

Pollo Adobado ($17) delivers a savory-sweet balance. An adobo-marinated chicken breast is grilled and finished with grilled pineapple pico, then paired with poblano rice, sautéed vegetables and a side of chipotle cream sauce.

Seafood lovers can dive into Fajita Shrimp Tacos ($17). Mesquite-grilled Blue Diamond shrimp are tucked into four mini flour tortillas and layered with cabbage slaw, roasted corn, avocado, chipotle mayo and queso fresco. The tacos are served with poblano rice and black beans for a satisfying finish.

To complement the new dishes, Blue Goose Cantina introduces two alcohol-free refreshers. The Watermelon Aqua Fresca ($6) blends premium El Cantinero cordial with fresh watermelon flavors and is topped with sweet grilled pineapple and jalapeños for a subtle kick. The Nada Colada ($6) is a blended piña colada without alcohol, offering tropical flavor without the morning-after regrets.

Established in 1984, Blue Goose Cantina brings together made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary cocktails, attentive service and a high-energy atmosphere. A division of Peterson Management Group, the family-owned restaurant management company, Blue Goose operates eight North Texas locations in Frisco, Plano, Highland Village, McKinney, Grapevine, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie and North Richland Hills ( temporarily closed).

The Augie’s Cocina menu items are available for a limited time at participating locations. For more information, including menus and locations, visit BlueGooseCantina.com and follow Blue Goose Cantina on Facebook and Instagram for updates and promotions.

ABOUT PETERSON MANAGEMENT GROUP
Peterson Management Group is a family-owned and operated restaurant management company with 13 restaurants across North Texas. Founded by Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield, the company operates Aw Shucks, Big Shucks Oyster Bar, and Blue Goose Cantina. Under the leadership of CEO Nick Peterson, the company continues a more than 40-year legacy rooted in great food, hospitality, and community connection.

 

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Exercise caution before embracing the fashion trend grillz. Dr. Penelope Drayer, clinical associate professor in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, said the flamboyant fashion jewelry – also known as grills to anyone over 40 reading this – can damage teeth and gums if wearers aren't careful.  gums if wearers aren’t careful. 

“They may look pretty, but those dazzling grillz, often made of silver, gold and jewel-encrusted metals, can trap food and bacteria if worn too long,” Drayer said. “Grillz, even if removable, increase wearers’ chances for tooth decay and cavities and enamel erosion.” 

Wear grillz for only a few hours at a time and avoid eating or drinking in them, she said. 

The American Dental Association stated the long-term effects of wearing grillz haven’t been studied. However, it warned that nonprecious metals could cause irritation or allergic reactions and bacterial buildup could lead to bad breath. 

Wearers should be especially diligent in brushing and flossing to prevent problems, ADA stated. Clean grillz daily to remove food and debris, and don’t use jewelry cleaners or other products that are dangerous to ingest. 

Both Drayer and ADA also cautioned against altering teeth with gold crowns to resemble grillz or adopting other permanent options. ADA stated that some people attached their grillz with glue, which is not intended for internal use. 

“The best fashion accessory is a beautiful, healthy smile – no glitter needed,” Drayer said. 

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Allen Nye

Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) will honor four visionary leaders at the annual Dallas Business Hall of Fame, to be held March 28, 2026, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. This prestigious fundraising gala will recognize the significant contributions of Allen Nye, Phillip Huffines, Steven Williams and Susan Adzick to the Dallas business community and beyond.

The Dallas Business Hall of Fame benefiting Junior Achievement of Dallas celebrates the best and brightest in the business community, recognizing leaders who have made an enduring impact on our region. Now in its 28th year, the event also raises critical funds to support JA Dallas’ mission of preparing the next generation for success in a global economy.

“Each of these honorees is an outstanding leader in their field and a powerful example of how business can be a force for good,” said Chris LaTurno, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Dallas. “Their stories of innovation, leadership and service will inspire our students to dream big and build strong futures.”

Susan Adzick, President of McLane Restaurant, leads one of the largest food service systems distribution companies in the country, with 45 distribution centers delivering to more than 34,000 restaurants. A respected leader in food service and supply chain management, she has held executive roles at McLane and previously at PepsiCo Food Systems. Adzick is active in industry associations, having served in leadership roles on boards including the International Foodservice Distributors Association, National Restaurant Association and Women’s Foodservice Forum. A champion for community engagement, she’s also been involved with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas and the Dallas Arboretum Women’s Council.

Phillip Huffines, Co-founder and Co-owner of Huffines Communities, has spent more than four decades transforming the North Texas landscape through visionary real estate development. His firm has developed more than 20,000 single-family homesites and 2,500 multifamily units, generating billions in value and supporting regional growth. Beyond business, Huffines is a dedicated mentor and philanthropist, supporting STEM education and entrepreneurship through the Huffines Foundation. He is a longtime Junior Achievement of Dallas board member and was named the organization’s Philanthropist of the Year in 2018.

Allen Nye is CEO of Oncor, Texas’ largest electric delivery company. Under his leadership since 2018, Oncor has emphasized safety, reliability and innovation while serving more than 13 million customers. A former partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP and Vinson & Elkins LLP, Nye brings a strong legal and regulatory background to his role, guiding Oncor through an era of rapid growth and modernization. He is also active in civic and industry organizations, supporting causes related to public service, economic development and education. 

Steven Williams, Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman of PepsiCo, is focused on building a unified PepsiCo selling organization, shaping a global strategy to accelerate growth in the company’s away‑from‑home business, and engaging stakeholders to support growth across the U.S. and around the world. A PepsiCo veteran since 2001, Williams previously served as CEO of PepsiCo North America, overseeing both the Foods and Beverages operating units. He has strengthened PepsiCo’s commercial capabilities and long‑term growth agenda while serving on boards including State Farm, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, and UT Southwestern, and is widely recognized for pairing strategic leadership with a deep commitment to community impact.

Since its inception, the Dallas Business Hall of Fame has raised more than $7 million. Those funds have helped JA Dallas bring nearly 800,000 local students learning experiences in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship, plus 3 million hours with corporate and community volunteers. These experiences are designed to empower today’s students to become the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to thrive.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information on the event, visit jadallasbusinesshalloffame.org.

About Junior Achievement of Dallas

Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. Over the past 70 years, the nonprofit organization has reached more than 1.3 million students across the region with real-world learning experiences in financial literacy, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship. In the past year alone, JA Dallas served 99,661 students through just over 50 school partners, powered by 3,124 volunteers who contributed 458,594 hours of their time, valued at more than $15.4 million. These immersive, hands-on experiences equip young people with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to lead and thrive. Research shows that JA alumni are more likely to pursue higher education, feel confident managing money, experience career success and start businesses. For more information, visit jadallas.org.

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The Lower Greenville St. Patrick’s Day Block Party returns Saturday, March 14, 2026, bringing a full day of music, celebration, and high-energy festivities to one of Dallas’ most iconic entertainment districts. Sponsored by The Vanderbilt to Vickery Association, this beloved tradition has defined St. Patrick’s Day on Lower Greenville for more than 30 years, drawing thousands of attendees each year.

Gates open at 9:00 AM, and Lower Greenville quickly becomes a hub for the day’s celebrations. This 21+ event creates a large-scale street festival atmosphere featuring outdoor bars, live DJs, beer tents, and venue-specific experiences from many of the neighborhood’s most popular restaurants and bars.

Eight of Lower Greenville’s most recognizable destinations will anchor this year’s celebration: Stan’s Blue Note, Dallas’ oldest continuously operating bar; The Dubliner, Dallas’ oldest Irish pub; Dodie’s Reef; Terilli’s Restaurant; Halcyon; Christie’s Sports Bar; Sister Restaurant; and Goodwins. Together, these venues showcase the distinctive character and energy that define the Lower Greenville Block Party.

The Lower Greenville Block Party is known as much for its atmosphere as its scale. Greenville Avenue comes alive with music, movement, and a crowd dressed head-to-toe in festive green, from shamrocks and bold outfits to playful accessories and costumes. Groups gather for photos, drinks are raised, and spontaneous pockets of dancing fill the street, creating the anything-can-happen energy that has become synonymous with Lower Greenville.

“The Lower Greenville Block Party has become one of Dallas’ most recognizable St. Patrick’s Day traditions,” said a representative of The Vanderbilt to Vickery Association. “There is nothing quite like seeing Greenville Avenue come alive in a sea of green. Our goal is to provide a fun, welcoming environment where guests can celebrate responsibly and enjoy the day safely.”

Guests can enjoy multiple entertainment activations throughout the event footprint, including three music stages. Participating venues will offer festive favorites such as green beer and festive food offerings. Many locations will also feature dedicated VIP-style areas, providing special access to patios, rooftops, and premium viewing spaces.

The block party takes place along Lower Greenville Avenue between Vanderbilt and Vickery from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is $20 per person (cash only). Valid government-issued identification is required for entry (21+), and ATMs will be available at entry points and throughout the event grounds.

To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment, backpacks, large bags, coolers, containers, and outside beverages are prohibited. Items may not be taken into or out of the event footprint once inside. Dallas police officers will be on-site throughout the event to support safety and crowd management.

Entry Gates
Guests may access the event through seven official entry points:

• North Greenville entrance
• South Greenville entrance
• East Vanderbilt entrance
• West Vanderbilt entrance
• East Goodwin entrance
• West Goodwin entrance
• East Vickery entrance

The Lower Greenville St. Patrick’s Day Block Party is a rain-or-shine event. Attendees are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and utilize rideshare services due to street closures and increased traffic in the area.

Full event details, updates, and FAQs are available at:
https://www.lowergreenvilleblockparty.com/

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Dr. Jacqueline Plemons

Dr. Jacqueline Plemons, a clinical professor and director of Stomatology, is Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s first executive director of external affairs. In her role, Plemons will explore ways the college can work more closely with the broader community, including other institutions, businesses, community care organizations as well as practicing dentists across the state.  

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas recently named Dr. Jacqueline Plemons as the inaugural executive director of external affairs. In her role, Plemons, a longtime clinical professor and director of Stomatology, will identify and cultivate collaborative opportunities between the 120-year-old dental college and the broader community, including other institutions, businesses, community care organizations and practicing dentists across the state. 

She will ensure each opportunity aligns with the dental college’s mission to provide academic excellence, trailblazing research and community-centered care and service. Plemons will develop operational guidelines when reviewing affiliation agreements in support of the dental school’s programs. 

 “Dr. Jacqueline Plemons has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in education, clinical care and service to the college and the dental profession,” said Dr. Lily T. García, A&M College of Dentistry dean. “Her institutional knowledge and respected leadership make her uniquely qualified to serve as our inaugural executive director of external affairs. In this role, she will strengthen strategic partnerships, ensuring every collaboration advances our mission of academic excellence, research and community-centered care.” 

Plemons is an alumna of what was then Baylor College of Dentistry, Class 1986, earning her dental degree, a certificate in periodontics and a master’s degree in oral biology/dentistry. She’s a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a former president of the Texas Dental Association, Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a former president of the Texas Dental Association and serves as the editor-in-chief of its publications. Plemons chaired the American Dental Association’s Council on Dental Education and Licensure from 2017 to 2021. 

Plemons taught at the college part-time for many years while also running her private practice in Dallas. Now a full-time faculty member, she will continue to teach and manage the stomatology services division. 

In her new role, Plemons will make collaboration with the dental college easier and more accessible and available. This includes developing a standardized protocol for how such collaborations will operate within departments. 

“I’ve had the privilege of serving in many positions in organized dentistry and other dental groups, building a network of colleagues with whom I’m excited about sharing the future of Texas A&M University College of Dentistry…,” she said. “I’d like to become the “bridge” allowing us to explore these exciting opportunities together.”