A Message from Vice President James D. Gallo | | |
I’m excited to welcome you to the second edition of Building Legacies.
As evidenced by the Texas heat, summer is in full swing—but that hasn’t slowed us down at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health). In addition to hosting and attending numerous local gatherings, our team has been on the road, holding our Breakthrough Texas regional events in San Antonio, Austin and Houston. You’ll find highlights from these special events in this issue.
We’re also eager to share a wonderful story about an esteemed School of Nursing alumna, the late Geraldine Dye Parker (SON ‘51). As you’ll discover, her family has an extraordinary connection to the university, and her children have made it their mission to continue their family’s legacy through an inspiring nursing scholarship.
The impact of philanthropy at UTMB Health remains strong, fueled by alumni, friends and partners like you who believe in our vision to define the future of health care.
Thank you for your continued generosity and for being an integral part of building UTMB Health’s legacy.
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James D. Gallo
Vice President and Chief Development Officer
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The UTMB Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) hosted its Donor Appreciation and Scholarship Luncheon in April, bringing together GSBS faculty, students and supporters.
This annual gathering provides a meaningful opportunity for scholarship recipients and donors to build relationships in person.
The highlight of the event was a heartfelt student panel, where four recipients shared how their scholarship has shaped their academic journey and future aspirations.
Learn more about GSBS and its incredible work in biomedical research and education.
Make a gift to support GSBS.
Event Photos
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Development Board Weekend a Success
The UTMB Health Development Board convened this spring at the Health Education Center on the Galveston campus for its annual meeting. Under the leadership of Dr. Ashley Purgason Donovan (GSBS ’14), the board continues to play a pivotal role in advancing UTMB Health’s mission through exceptional leadership, advocacy and personal generosity.
At the gathering, members connected with each other and heard from university leaders about the exciting plans on the horizon to elevate the university’s impact on health care, education, research and innovation across Texas and beyond.
You can find more information about the Development Board here.
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This past year, nearly 1,200 students across UTMB Health’s five schools received their diplomas, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
As we celebrate this unforgettable milestone for these students, we also want to highlight the vital role alumni generosity plays in the student experience.
From scholarships and study guides to white coats and pins, alumni support helps bridge the gap from classroom to commencement.
Read more about how alumni continue to make a difference in the lives of today’s students and how you can join them.
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In 1951, ten remarkable women—known in UTMB Health history as The Mighty Ten—stepped onto the stage as Texas’ first Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree graduates. Among these nursing trailblazers was the late Geraldine Dye Parker, whose family’s relationship with the university dates back to the 1920s.
Now, nearly 75 years after Geraldine’s historic graduation, her children are reconnecting with the scholarship established in her honor.
Read more about Geraldine's story and her family’s legacy at UTMB.
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Over 30 John Sealy School of Medicine (JSSOM) alumni gathered in San Antonio for a special reception hosted by the UTMB Health during TexMed 2025.
The event provided a unique opportunity for alumni to interact, meet the new Alumni Association Board of Trustees and hear remarks from Dr. Antonio Bianco, interim senior vice president and dean of JSSOM and chief research officer.
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UTMB Health recently honored five John Sealy School of Medicine (JSSOM) alumni as the 2025 recipients of the Ashbel Smith Distinguished Alumni Award.
These exceptional alumni were nominated by their peers for their remarkable contributions to health care through service, leadership and education.
- Dr. Andrew Chesson, Jr., Class of 1974
- Dr. Toni Funicella, Class of 1972
- Dr. Robert Jackson, Class of 1981
- Dr. Tom Purgason, Class of 1979
- Dr. E. Steve Woodle, Class of 1980
Established in 1965, the ASDA Award is the highest honor granted by the JSSOM Alumni Association— an achievement held by less than 2% of all medical school alumni. The award recognizes physicians who embody the highest ideals of its namesake, Dr. Ashbel Smith, considered the “father of Texas medicine.”
Congratulations to these leaders in medicine!
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UTMB Health Hosts Breakthrough Texas Regional Events
UTMB Health was on the road in June, making stops in Austin, San Antonio and Houston to host Breakthrough Texas regional events. These occasions brought together university leaders and nearly 150 alumni and supporters to foster engagement and hear about the latest institutional developments.
Dr. Peter McCaffrey, chief artificial intelligence officer, headlined the Austin and San Antonio events, sharing insights into the world of AI and how it’s being leveraged at UTMB Health to accelerate discovery, diagnosis and delivery of care.
UTMB President Dr. Jochen Reiser served as keynote speaker for the Houston event at the River Oaks Country Club, where he outlined the university’s bold path forward, teeming with innovation and global influence.
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Registration Now Open for Breakthrough Texas Arlington!
UTMB Health is excited to bring Breakthrough Texas to Arlington, Texas, on September 18, 2025.
Join us for a one-of-a-kind evening filled with connection, camaraderie and insights on the innovations taking place at UTMB Health.
Click below for more information or to register.
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Breakthroughs in cancer prevention and treatment are on the horizon at UTMB Health. A prestigious Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas grant will advance innovative research targeting breast, lung, ovarian and HPV-related cancers.
Read more about how nearly $5 million in new funding will drive progress.
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Inaugural Sealy Society Walk of Honor Reception Celebrates Donor Impact
UTMB Health recently hosted the inaugural Sealy Society Walk of Honor reception, recognizing the generosity and impact of some of the university’s most dedicated alumni and supporters.
Guests gathered for a program that included hors d’oeuvres, meaningful conversations and a celebration of philanthropy. They then visited the plaques, including the newest additions, located in the heart of our Galveston campus—each bearing the names of Sealy Society members whose generosity continues to shape the future of UTMB Health.
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Share Your Story
Behind every gift is a story—and we’d love to hear yours. Whether it’s a memory, a mentor or a mission, we want to know what giving back to UTMB Health means to you and your legacy.
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Want to Make a Gift?
There are many ways to give to UTMB Health. No matter where your interest lies, your gift makes a significant impact.
| | Estate Planning and Free Will | | | | |
We're happy to assist with your gift and estate planning needs.
Contact us at (409) 747-8364 or email Austin Stanford for a complimentary Estate Planning Guide.
You can also check out UTMB's user-friendly resource where you can draft your will online at not cost to you!
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For questions or assistance, please contact
James D. Gallo, Vice President and Chief Development Officer
(409) 772-1402 or jdgallo@utmb.edu.
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