Texas Biomedical Forum Celebrates In Grand Style At 53rd Gala
By Lance Avery Morgan Photography by Clementson Photography
THE SETTING: The Argyle was the perfect setting for this year’s gala of the Texas Biomedical Forum, a non profit, membership-based organization of women. It was founded with the mission to raise funds for early-stage research at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute. La Vie En Rose was selected as the theme in celebration of a rosy and bright future at Texas Biomed. The vibe was convivial and elegant, with Meredith Alvarez of Bell Papel designing and executing the exquisite invitations and event programs, while Holly Besing Designs created the event planning and floral décor.
THE STYLE: The evening began with cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres and the sounds of the Monte Vista Strings Quartet under a beautiful white tent adorned with tassels and resplendent in shades of pink floral. Guests were then seated for a delicious, signature dinner that included the crowd-favorite pepper bomb steak and a pink mousse dessert shaped like a rose. The lively piano music by Kenneth Davison, Berni Martini, and Monica Moore filled the air throughout the venue as guests dined. The 10-piece Revue Show Band was the after party entertainment that kept the dance floor filled all night. Many guests participated in the Ribbon Pull, an interactive giving initiative whereby participants pay to pull a long-stemmed rose to reveal their prize. This fun and successful fundraising activity was originally designed for the Forum Gala 2022 and is now being replicated across the city due to its success and popularity.
THE PURPOSE: This year’s event co-chairs were Bonnie Muecke and Jayme Russell. The gala assistant was Allegra Hawkins, and the table sales chair was Emily McMurray. The gala treasurer was Avril Byrne and serving as Forum president was Rebecca Nathan. The Texas Biomedical Forum and Gala committee wish to thank their many patrons and supporters, including the room and table sponsors and event underwriters who made this year such a success. Funds raised from the evening help fund early-stage research at Texas Biomed, allowing scientists to then apply for grants from larger donors. Over the past 20 years, the Forum has awarded $4.8 million in pilot study grants, which has enabled Texas Biomed researchers to apply for over $90 million in outside funding, amounting to an almost 20-fold return on investment.
