It’s time to stirrup some glitz, glam, and giving! Equest is excited to announce its 45th Annual Blue Ribbon Gala, themed “Run for the Roses,” to be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m. at Gilley’s Dallas. Inspired by the timeless elegance and excitement of the Kentucky Derby, the annual Gala promises a high-spirited mix of Southern hospitality, sophisticated style, and down-home fun, all in support of Equest’s mission to change lives through the human-horse connection.
Gala Chairs Melinda and Mark Knowles, distinguished Dallas philanthropists and community leaders, will lead the charge for this milestone event, joined by Honorary Chair Lynn McBee,whose civic leadership and tireless advocacy have shaped the philanthropic landscape of Dallas.Guests will enjoy a dazzling lineup of experiences includinga gourmet seated dinner with signature cocktails, thrilling live and silent auctions, a prestigious awards presentation, and an electrifying performance from Jordan Kahn’s Manhattan Orchestra to two-step the night away. Don your finest Texas-chic attire—cowboy boots welcome!
Two distinguished awards will be presented at this year’s Gala to honor extraordinary individuals who embody the spirit and mission of Equest. The Founders Award, established in honor of co-founder Susan Neustadt Schwartz, recognizes individuals with lifelong dedication to Equest’s mission of improving lives through equine assisted services. The 2026 award will be presented to Leslie and Hawkins Golden in recognition of their outstanding commitment and support. The Citation Award, named after the legendary American Thoroughbred winner of the same name, celebrates a champion within Equest who demonstrates the same spirit of excellence. The 2026 recipient of this honor is Carol Huckin.
Returning to lend their signature sparkle, celebrity event designer Steve Kemble will once again create a show-stopping experience, while Calvert Collins-Bratton reprises her role as emcee,guiding guests through the evening’s festivities. A legendary team of committee chairs will ensure the Gala’s legacy of excellence and impact, including Bonner Allen (Reservations), Maggie Cooke Kipp and Nancy Gopez (Auction), Nancy Carlson, Alison Malone and Stacey Walker (Underwriting), and Amy Turner (Patron Party Chair).
The Equest Blue Ribbon Gala’s theme, “Run for the Roses,” nods to the Kentucky Derby’s iconic tradition of crowning its champion horse with a lush garland of over 400 red roses, a symbol of victory, heart, and resilience. These values reflect the essence of Equest’s work: helping individuals with diverse needs achieve personal triumphs through the transformative power of horses.
“As we celebrate 45 years of Equest, we’re not just looking back—we’re galloping forward,” said Eric Lindh, CEO of Equest. “Our therapy horses are the heart of what we do, while it’s the people—our supporters, volunteers, and community—who make the impact possible. The Blue Ribbon Gala is our favorite night of the year to celebrate that joy, generosity, and impact, all under one roof.”
The Equest Annual Blue Ribbon Gala will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Gilley’s Dallas (1135 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, TX 75215). Tables of ten start at $5,000, and sponsorships are also available. Underwriting opportunities are available at various levels starting at $5,000 as a category sponsor. Individual tickets will be released closer to the date. For more information and to purchase tables, please visit www.equest.org/gala or contact Angela Escamilla at gala@equest.org or (972) 412-1099 ext. 209.