Alumni gather in Austin
Yale alumni gather at The Contemporary Austin Laguna Gloria.

This past April, Yale alumni from across Central Texas came together for the BOLD & Beyond Central Texas series, a dynamic celebration of art, community, and the enduring Yale spirit. The events, spanning from Austin, Dallas, and Fort Worth, provided opportunities for alumni to connect, explore, and engage with their local communities.

The series kicked off on April 27 with a sold-out event at the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park at The Contemporary Austin Laguna Gloria. Alumni strolled through the stunning outdoor park on a private guided tour tour. 

Woman standing with car
There's no mistaking Stacy Smalley ’02 MSN, who shares her Yale spirit on the road with her "YALIE" license plate.

Several notable works were on display, including Tom Friedman’s "Looking Up" and "Water Woman," by Wangechi Mutu ’00 MFA. A special viewing of Guadalupe Maravilla’s "Mariposa Relámpago" was a highlight of the tour. The day was capped off with a picnic, allowing alumni to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Another sold-out event for alumni in the Dallas area was scheduled for April 28, but was postponed due to inclement weather. Yale community members are encouraged to stay updated on future club events by visiting the YAA calendar.

Alumni happy hour
Yale alumni enjoyed cocktails and conversation during a happy hour at Birdie’s Social Club.

On April 29, the festivities moved to Birdie’s Social Club in Fort Worth for a lively happy hour. This gathering allowed club leaders and alumni from the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area to meet, mingle, and share their experiences. The evening buzzed with conversation and camaraderie, underscoring the strong bonds within the Yale community.

The grand finale of the series was the For Humanity Illuminated event in Dallas-Fort Worth on April 30. Fort Worth’s Sundance Square rolled out a grand welcome for the Yale community, complete with live music throughout the day, blue lights and bulldogs as far as the eye could see, and a Y-emblazoned clock face. The evening’s program was a vibrant celebration, bringing together alumni to discuss and reflect on Yale’s mission to illuminate and improve the world.

Sundance Square
Sundance Square welcomed the Yale community with blue lights, bulldogs, and a Y-emblazoned clock face.

Mindy Marks ’00, senior director for Yale Regional Clubs at the Yale Alumni Association remarked, "The BOLD & Beyond series continues to exemplify the strength and vibrancy of our alumni community. These events are not just gatherings but opportunities for meaningful connections and lifelong learning."

The BOLD & Beyond Central Texas series was a testament to the enduring connections within the Yale alumni network and a reminder of the robust community that continues to thrive long after graduation.

Check out our Instagram highlights and stay tuned for future events and opportunities to engage with fellow Yalies!