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Fashionable philanthropists were on the list for this year's stylish House of DIFFA gala

One of the Dallas society scenes' biggest bashes recently closed out the spring gala season, and as per usual no stops went unpulled.

House of DIFFA, the major fundraising party and fashion show for DIFFA Dallas that's presented by The Louis L. Borick Foundation, lit up the Hilton Anatole on May 13 with more than 1,400 people in attendance. This year's theme was The List, hosted by co-chairs Haley Clark and Richard Rivas.

VIPs showed up early to mingle in the exclusive Don Julio and Ketel One lounge, while other excited patrons marveled at the famous collection of luxury jackets. Pieces from Michael Bush, Joseff of Hollywood, Hive & Colony, Brandon Harris, and Ese Azenabor were all up for bidding, totaling more than 70 custom jackets in all.

Aerialists wowed the crowd during a very busy cocktail hour, and then it was time to head into the ballroom for dinner.

Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth performed multiple songs throughout the evening, while also acting as emcee.

After the Style Council Ambassador and DIFFA Legends runway walk it was awards time. The evening's award recipients included:

Ken Downing, Excellence in Fashion Award
Gilead Sciences, Health Award
Lee Borchet, Excellence in Design Award
Justin Bundick, Donna Fishel Community Hero Award
Fern Mallis, Legend In The Fight Against AIDS Award
DIFFA Dallas board chair David White, the Legacy of Love Award

Following the spirited live auction, which included items like a one-of-a-kind Halston fashion experience, a luxury Los Cabos getaway for two, and lots of art, Chenoweth introduced the highly anticipated fashion show presented by JSX.

Fittingly for House of DIFFA's extravagant atmosphere, the first segment was themed to Studio 54 with look-a-likes of Andy Warhol, Deborah Harry, Cher, and Halston taking the runway.

The fashion traveled through different decades and movements, like '80s glam rock, London punk rock/CBGB, Starck club, '80s rap, teen pop, grunge, hip hop, EDM, and closed with the “Metaverse.”

After the grand finale, models led attendees to the afterparty next door, where DJ Adante kept the guests dancing 'til early in the morning.

House of DIFFA 2023 Studio 54 on the runway

Photo by Lori Sapio

The runway began with a Studio 54 theme.

DIFFA is one of the largest and most successful fundraising organizations aiding HIV/AIDS, with chapters in Dallas, New York, Chicago, Kansas City, San Francisco, and Seattle.

The Dallas chapter, formed in 1984, is one of the largest HIV/AIDS organizations in Texas that provides funding to local HIV/AIDS service organizations within our community.

DIFFA/Dallas has raised more than $51 million to benefit more than 20 HIV/AIDS service organizations in North Texas providing direct care to those living or affected by HIV/AIDS.

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Ladies in rouge

Parisian style meets purpose at chic 2026 Go Red Luncheon in Dallas

Photo courtesy of AHA

Rosangela Zurawel, Cathy Amos, Anna Berman, Regina Bruce

What: 2026 Dallas Go Red for Women Luncheon benefiting the American Heart Association

Where: Fairmont Dallas

The 411: More than 600 North Texans convened Friday, March 6 for the American Heart Association’s annual Go Red for Women Luncheon, a stylish and mission-minded afternoon dedicated to raising awareness and funds for women’s cardiovascular health. This year’s “Hearts in Bloom” theme transformed the Fairmont ballroom into a chic Parisian-inspired garden party, awash in florals, soft café touches, and bold red accents — ooh la la.

Guests, of course, were dressed in shades of rouge.

The immersive afternoon began with a cocktail reception featuring activations such as Studio Calme chair yoga, a floral “Bloom Bar,” beauty touch-ups, and a live fashion sketch artist. Guests also learned Hands-Only CPR demonstrations, explored Research Goes Red initiatives, and participated in a moving Tribute Wall honoring loved ones.

Co-chairs Paola Arbour and Sandi Karrmann underscored the urgency of the cause, reminding attendees that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women - and encouraging them to “Go Red” by knowing their numbers and taking action. Emcees Kristin Diaz (anchor for NewsRadio 1080 KRLD) and Sam Gannon (sports co‑host with FOX 4 News) kept the program upbeat, and longtime supporter Stacy Nahas was honored with the 2026 Sandi Haddock Community Impact Award.

The program turned inspirational with keynote speaker Dr. Jessica Shepherd, who shared insights on prevention, early detection, and empowering women with vital health information.

With support from sponsors including CVS Health, Kimberly-Clark, and Texas Health, the 2026 Go Red campaign has raised $1.6 million, with momentum continuing to grow. Go Red supports lifesaving research, education, and advocacy for women’s heart health.

Who: Rosangela Zurawel, Cathy Amos, Anna Berman, Regina Bruce, David Harvey, Debbie Murray, Christina Reed, Dr. Carla Russo, Elizabeth Smith, Paola Arbour, Sandi Karrmann, Ellington Heis, Linda Pothoff, Everett Heis, Ashley Heis, Heidi Clement, Kelly Maxwell-Gomez, Catherine Whiddon, Daphne Henderson, Susan Wetzel, Stacy Nahas, and hundreds more patrons and supporters.

Photo courtesy of AHA

Rosangela Zurawel, Cathy Amos, Anna Berman, Regina Bruce

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