In this issue
- Destination healthcare in Frisco
- Leadership profile: Ryan Gebhart
- Myra and Darwin Smith’s generous gift to the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation will expand access to Genetic Counseling and the Community Health Worker program
- Bloomberg Philanthropies has launched a $250 million initiative connecting healthcare and education systems to create career-technical education high schools
Ryan Gebhart leading the new Frisco hospital
Board member profile: Christine VanDeVelde Luskin
Thanks a million
An uplifting gift for North Texans
Couple’s donation opens doors for underserved
Letter from the President
The future is notoriously hard to predict, but there’s undeniable excitement on the horizon for Baylor Scott & White and the communities we serve. Why? Because philanthropy is driving real change, transforming patient care and innovative research right now.
Take the incredible generosity of Myra and Darwin Smith. Their recent gift has supercharged two vital programs: Community Health Workers, bringing essential healthcare navigation to underserved Dallas neighborhoods, and genetic counseling, empowering patients with knowledge to make more-informed decisions about their health.
It’s not just about today, though. Our sights are set on advancing the health and well-being of future Texans. Look at our investment in Frisco—it’s not just growth; it’s a bold commitment toward building a premier destination medical center in North Texas. This move is poised to improve the health and well-being of people living in Collin County and the surrounding region.
We know that Baylor Scott & White does not stand alone in this journey. Weare working with like-minded visionaries committed to a healthier North Texas. From collaborating with Uplift Education to launch healthcare-focused high schools, prepping students for medical careers, to working with PACCAR, which made a significant gift to support the new Frisco medical center, it’s clear: our collective efforts are building a healthier tomorrow.
Whether you’re a Dallas native, or “got here as fast as you could” like Foundation board member Christine Luskin, having high-quality healthcare close to home is imperative. “When my husband and I were deciding where to move next, having access to great healthcare was non-negotiable. Dallas has that with Baylor Scott & White, and it’s just getting better and better.”
I couldn’t agree more. I have immense gratitude for so many of you who share the Baylor Scott & White vision of empowering you to live well—now and for generations to come. As we forge ahead, I’m reminded of a quote from George Burns: “I look to the future because that’s where I’m going to spend the rest of my life.” Our actions today are investments in the well-being of tomorrow, inspiring us to keep pushing boundaries for a healthier future for all.
Ben Renberg
President,
Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation
Your generosity fuels groundbreaking research, life-changing treatments and compassionate care for patients and families in our community.
Letter from the Chair
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
In a world that often seems focused on the pursuit of happiness, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s words serve as a poignant reminder of a deeper purpose. At Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation, we are fortunate to be surrounded by donors and supporters who embody this ethos every day, making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Recent generous gifts from donors like Myra and Darwin Smith have supported vital programs such as genetic counseling and community health workers, ensuring that those in need receive the care and support they deserve. And, partners like PACCAR are instrumental in the development of our new medical center in Frisco, expanding access to quality healthcare across the region. Their generosity is a testament to the power of giving back and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.
Our board members—like Christine Luskin who is spotlighted in this issue—play a crucial role in guiding our efforts and inspiring others to join us in our mission. Their engagement and commitment are instrumental in driving our initiatives forward and making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.
As we reflect on Emerson’s words, we are reminded of the incredible privilege we have to serve others and the potential each of us has to make a difference. Through the dedication of our donors, board members, and partners, we are proud to say that we are fully engaged to serve and striving every day to make a meaningful impact in the world around us.
Norm Bagwell
Chair, Board of Directors
Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation
Read Past Issues
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Spring 2025
In this issue, we cover the York family's $7 million commitment to help launch the Texas Cancer Interception Institute; the new Lipid Metabolism Center at BUMC; and music therapy during end-of-life care.Read More Spring 2025 -
Winter 2024
In this issue: Celebrating Women marks its 25th anniversary; Dr. Shelley Hall and Dr. Guiliano Testa discuss 40 years of Transplant Services at BUMC; and BUMC launches a new Street Medicine program.Read More Winter 2024 -
Fall 2024
In this issue: First patients enroll in Multi-Cancer Early Detection study at Baylor Scott & White, and intercepting breast cancer recurrence through weight lossRead More Fall 2024