The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden has revealed the distinguished individuals being honored at its Great Contributors Gala philanthropic event, scheduled for December 5. The recipients include Phyllis and Tom McCasland, the late Sue Ringle, and Carolyn and Al Olson. The evening will commence with a champagne reception and silent auction starting at 6 p.m., followed by the dinner and program at 7 p.m. in Rosine Hall, located at the Dallas Arboretum (8525 Garland Rd., Dallas, TX 75218). Co-chairs for the event, Sharon Ballew and Mari Epperson, also held the role of co-chairs for Artscape.
Mary Brinegar, president and CEO of the Dallas Arboretum, commented, “We are eager to honor the remarkable accomplishments of these exceptional garden advocates, who have devoted their time, talents, and resources to our board, The Women’s Council, and the volunteer initiatives that maintain our garden as a cherished destination for visitors worldwide.”
THE HONOREES:
Phyllis and Tom McCasland
Tom and Phyllis McCasland, both originally from Oklahoma, first crossed paths at The University of Oklahoma, where they later wed post-graduation. Tom enjoyed a notable career in the oil industry, while Phyllis engaged in banking and became a Master Gardener, contributing articles on gardening to local publications.
Upon their retirement and transitioning the family business to their son, they relocated to Dallas. Since then, both have been actively involved with numerous organizations, including the Dallas Arboretum. Their financial contributions have significantly fostered the Arboretum’s growth, including funding the Sunken Garden renovation and supporting the Chihuly exhibition. They notably initiated funding for The 12 Days of Christmas celebration and procured land for a parking garage, while also partially covering the project’s initial loan. Furthermore, they financed the land acquisition for the new greenhouses and offered a challenge grant to motivate others to support greenhouse construction, leading to the facilities we see today. In appreciation of their generosity, the Executive Committee of the Dallas Arboretum voted to honor them by naming the Horticulture Center and its surrounding land in their favor. The couple has two sons, Tom III and Mark, along with five grandchildren.
Sue Ringle (posthumous)
A Texas native, Sue Ringle became a member of the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum in 2005, dedicating her effort to various roles. As president during 2012-2013, Sue played a crucial role in furthering funding for A Woman’s Garden, a project developed by the Women’s Council as their gift to the Arboretum. This tranquil and nationally recognized garden thrives due to the Council’s ongoing financial support.
During her presidency, the Women’s Council marked its 30th anniversary and the 25th anniversary of the Mad Hatter’s Tea, a principal fundraising event for the organization. She emphasized these milestones by organizing a special Chihuly event and successfully increasing the membership by over 100, raising the total to more than 600.
Her commitment to community service was evident in her diverse interests spanning politics, music, and faith. At Highland Park Methodist Church, she initiated the Jester’s Program, a theatrical initiative for adults aged 16 and older with special needs. Sue was married for 45 years to Brett, whom she met at the University of Texas at Austin while both were involved in the Longhorn Band. She leaves behind her husband and her son, Kyle.
Carolyn and Al Olson
Carolyn and Al Olson, married for 52 years, are regular volunteers at the Dallas Arboretum. Since beginning their volunteer journey in February 2004, they have amassed over 9,300 volunteer hours. Al, who has retired from Exxon/Mobil, has always been passionate about roses, cultivating several new rose varieties for the Arboretum. While he volunteers throughout the garden, he currently enjoys contributing at the newly established Tom and Phyllis McCasland Horticulture Center, including the greenhouse, and serving on the Volunteer Advisory Board. Carolyn plays a key role as an administrative volunteer for the Volunteer Department and also participates on the Advisory Board. Between 2013 and 2018, Al was a member of the board of directors and even chaired the Volunteer Advisory Board, facilitating the coordination of over 500 volunteers. In 2012, both Carolyn and Al took on roles as volunteer chairs during the notable Dale Chihuly Glass Exhibition at the garden and have been involved in various festivals since. They share three adult children and six grandchildren.
Table sponsorship options range from $5,000 to $75,000, and individual tickets start at $275. Additional underwriting opportunities are available. For more details, reach out to Missy Whisler at mwhisler@dallasarboretum.org or call 214.515.6688. More information can also be found at https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/greatcontributorgala/.
Craig Hall, an entrepreneur and dedicated art collector, was honored with the inaugural Great Contributor to Art award in 2017, followed by Martha Stewart, a celebrated author and entertainment icon, in 2018.
About the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden:
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is situated along the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218, and is home to the renowned Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. The garden welcomes visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Dallas Morning News serves as the primary partner for the Dallas Arboretum. The Arboretum receives support from the Dallas Park and Recreation Department. WFAA is also recognized as an official media sponsor of the Dallas Arboretum. For additional information, please call 214.515.6500 or visit www.dallasarboretum.org.
