Here’s How The 44th Annual Equest Blue Ribbon Gala In Dallas Topped Its Fundraising Records

Revered Organization Supports Equine Facilitated Activities, Therapies & Counseling

By Cynthia Smoot Photography by Tamytha Cameron

THE SCENE: Equest’s 44th Annual Blue Ribbon Gala on April 25th at Gilley’s Dallas was a night of cowboy boots, big-hearted bidding, and spirited celebration. Led by Gala Chairs Kristin and James Hallam and Honorary Chairs The Sam and Helga Feldman Foundation and Natalie and David Taylor, the sold-out event drew 570 guests and raised a record-breaking $700,000. Event Designer Steve Kemble’s blue ombré decor, white rose tablescapes, and a “disco saddle” centerpiece wowed attendees who enjoyed cocktails, dinner, auctions, casino games, and dancing to Jordan Kahn’s Manhattan Orchestra.

THE VIBE: From the first “yee haw” delivered by emcee Calvert Collins-Bratton, guests knew this was no ordinary gala. CEO Eric Lindh shared Equest’s bold vision and pledged to expand services to first responders. Equest recognized Donna and Tim Weber, and their daughter, Katherine with the 2025 Citation Award and Carol Chamberlin with the Susan Schwartz Founder’s Award.

Auction Chair Norma Jean Schaltenbrand urged the crowd to “Bid boldly. Bid big. Bid with heart,” and Dallas delivered. Even Auctioneer Louis Murad of Murad Auctions auctioned the sparkling jacket off his back for $2,000. The sensational evening proved once again that when Dallas comes together for Equest, it’s always a blue-ribbon affair.

THE NON-PROFIT: Founded in 1981, Equest provides equine-facilitated activities, therapies, and counseling to children and adults with physical, cognitive, sensory, coping, and learning disabilities and veterans with adjustment challenges. With 34 therapy horses, a dedicated team of professionals, and 869 volunteers contributing 20,611 hours annually, Equest transforms the lives of more than 2,770 individuals every year.