The Dallas County Medical Society (DCMS) is proud to announce Dr. Winfred Parnell and Mrs. Deborah Parnell and Mr. David Tesmer and Mrs. Kristin Tesmer as co-chairs of the 2025 DCMS Presidential Gala, to be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 6:00–11:00 PM at the George W. Bush Presidential Center Hall of State.

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Pictured from left to right: Dr. Winfred Parnell, Mrs. Deborah Parnell, President-elect Dr. Gates Colbert, Mrs. Kristin Tesmer, and Mr. David Tesmer. Photo credit: Brenden Williams.

This elegant evening will be a powerful celebration of leadership, excellence in medicine, and community impact, inspiring all attendees and benefiting the Dallas County Medical Society Foundation. The Gala will feature the installation of Dr. Gates Colbert as the 143rd DCMS President, the presentation of prestigious awards, live entertainment, and both silent and live auctions.

Honoring Leadership in Health and Community

The Parnells and Tesmers bring decades of leadership, advocacy, and service to the Dallas healthcare community.

Dr. Winfred Parnell, a board-certified physician and nationally recognized expert in healthcare governance, has been a dedicated member of DCMS for over 40 years. His service includes roles on the Board of Directors, as a delegate to the Texas Medical Association, and currently as a member of the DCMS Investment Review Committee. Dr. Parnell’s influence in Dallas spans clinical care, hospital leadership, and public health strategy. He co-founded a thriving OB-GYN practice that serves thousands of women annually and held key leadership roles at Medical City Hospital Dallas, including President of the Medical Staff and Chairman of the Department of Surgery. As Chairman of the Board for Parkland Health and Hospital System, he led the organization through a critical regulatory transformation, establishing a governance model that became a national benchmark for quality and accountability. His advocacy has reached both state and federal levels, including lobbying efforts for the Texas Medical Association and service on President Obama’s healthcare policy committee, where he represented Texas at the White House. Dr. Parnell’s legacy is defined by visionary leadership, deep community engagement, and a lifelong commitment to improving healthcare for Dallas residents.

Deborah Parnell, a licensed dietitian and nutritionist, as well as an international board-certified lactation consultant, has dedicated her career to maternal and child health. She currently serves as President of the Dallas County Medical Society Alliance Foundation, where she continues her advocacy for health and education. Her 32-year career with the City of Dallas WIC Program, along with her ongoing community service, reflects a deep commitment to improving lives in Dallas County.

Dr. Winfred and Deborah Parnell shared, “This Gala is more than a celebration—it’s a reflection of the values we hold dear: service, leadership, and community. We��re proud to support DCMS and its mission to elevate healthcare in Dallas County.”

David Tesmer, Chief Community and Public Policy Officer at Texas Health Resources, has spent more than 35 years advancing public policy, stakeholder engagement, and community health initiatives. Under his leadership, Texas Health has received national recognition for its community service and health improvement efforts. David’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including the United Nations Global Leadership Award for Sustainable Development in Good Health and Well-being. He also serves in key leadership roles across regional and national healthcare organizations and is a frequent lecturer at major universities in Texas.

Kristin Tesmer, JD, MBA, FACHE, is an Assistant Professor of Practice at Texas Christian University, where she helps shape the future of healthcare business education. Her career spans legal practice, executive leadership in the health system, and nonprofit management. Kristin has led multi-million-dollar regional collaborations focused on improving health outcomes and strengthening the healthcare safety net. Her work has helped secure over $10 million in grant funding to support local health systems, physicians, and community partners. Together, the Tesmers have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving the health and well-being of North Texans through education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.

“We are honored to serve as co-chairs for this year’s Gala,” said David and Kristin Tesmer. “DCMS represents the heart of our medical community, and this event is a powerful way to celebrate the people and partnerships that make Dallas a healthier place for all.”

Jon Roth, CEO and EVP of DCMS, added, “We are thrilled to have such incredible pillars of the DFW community in Dr. and Mrs. Parnell and Mr. and Mrs. Tesmer lead this year’s Gala. Their combined experience and passion for healthcare and community service embody the spirit of DCMS. With their leadership, this event promises to be one of the most memorable in our history.”

Get Involved

The DCMS Presidential Gala is open to the entire community, and there are many ways to participate:

• Sponsorship Opportunities: Showcase your support for healthcare and community leadership by becoming a Gala sponsor. Multiple levels are available with recognition benefits.
• Table Reservations: Reserve a table for your organization, practice, or group of friends and colleagues. Tables are available for purchase now.
• Individual Tickets: Tickets are available for individual guests. Standard pricing ends Friday, November 28, 2025.
• Auction Donations: Help make the Gala unforgettable by donating items or experiences for the silent and live auctions. All proceeds benefit the DCMS Foundation and its mission to improve healthcare in Dallas County.

For more information on all ticket levels and sponsorships, visit www.dallas-cms.org.

Secure your tickets today for an unforgettable evening that honors medical excellence and supports a brighter future for healthcare in our community.

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