DBU Leadership Gala

Monday, November 10, 2025 
Chantilly Ballroom, Hilton Anatole Hotel
6:00 p.m. - General Reception
7:00 p.m. - Dinner and Program
Dinner Chair - Dr. Ron Harris

Since 1898, DBU has produced servant leaders whose heart is to transform the world and strengthen their communities. To that end, DBU seeks to honor those whose lives reflect the values that the University holds dear. Established in 1988, the annual DBU Leadership Gala seeks to honor individuals who use their God-given talents and abilities to excel in their chosen field of work and whose lives are testimonies of achievements in free enterprise and service to the community through the Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award and the Tom Landry Leadership Award.

Please consider becoming a sponsor of this year’s DBU Leadership Gala in order to provide scholarship funds to DBU students as they pursue Christ-centered quality higher education.

For questions regarding the event, please contact the Office of University Advancement advancement@dbu.edu or (214) 333-5168.

2025 Honorees

Patsy Ruth McDonough Smith
Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award

Patsy Ruth McDonough Smith has dedicated her life to faith, service, and generosity. Alongside her late husband, Herman, she built a successful business while investing deeply in her community through countless civic and charitable projects. For more than 30 years, Patsy has been a faithful friend and supporter of Dallas Baptist University, serving as a Trustee and executive board member, and helping to make possible major initiatives such as the Don and Linda Carter School of Business capital campaign.

Her commitment to DBU reflects her guiding belief to “leave the woodpile higher than you found it.” Beyond the University, Patsy has been recognized with numerous honors for her leadership and service, yet she credits every accomplishment to God’s faithfulness. Through her generosity and steadfast support, she continues to inspire the next generation of servant leaders for Christ and leaves a lasting legacy on University Hill.

J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation
Tom Landry Leadership Award

Since 1948, the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation has embodied a legacy of generosity and impact. Founded by Missouri natives John and Lottie Mabee, the Foundation has invested more than $1.6 billion in grants to support education, healthcare, humanitarian services, and faith-based initiatives across the Southwest. Through its unique challenge grant model, the Foundation strengthens nonprofit projects by fostering both sustainability and community investment.

For more than 30 years, the Mabee Foundation has been a vital partner to Dallas Baptist University, supporting key campus projects such as the Don and Linda Carter School of Business capital campaign. With every project it funds, the Foundation continues to shape lives and communities, building not just facilities, but brighter futures.