The Austin Plastic Surgery Foundation proudly hosted its 39th Annual Wish Upon a Smile Gala, presented by Altrua Healthshare, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the breathtaking Starlight Terrace at The Oasis on Lake Travis. The unforgettable evening raised critical funds to support Austin Smiles’ mission of providing surgical and post-surgical care for children born with cleft lip and palate in Central Texas and across Latin America. More than 350 supporters gathered to celebrate nearly four decades of life-changing impact, collectively raising nearly $450,000 to support the organization's mission.
Guests enjoyed the best sunset in Austin, a beautifully prepared dinner, an open bar, and a lively silent and live auction before ending the night with a special performance by Sir Woman. The program was emceed by Allison Miller of CBS Austin, with Victoria Pineda returning as Auctioneer to lead a spirited evening of bidding. Gala co-chairs Patty Johns and Michelle Jones once again provided outstanding leadership for this signature event.
Each year, the Gala recognizes the extraordinary volunteers who make Austin Smiles’ mission possible. In 2025, the organization was proud to present the 7th Annual Cullington-Fox-Beckham International Service Award to Dr. Bob Clement and George Cowden. Dr. Clement, a pioneering surgeon and longtime volunteer at Austin Smiles, has dedicated decades of service to children with cleft conditions both locally and abroad. George Cowden, a passionate advocate and former attorney, helped launch Shoot for a Smile, the organization’s signature clay shoot fundraiser, which has raised more than $1 million to support Austin Smiles’ work. Their contributions have strengthened Austin Smiles’ ability to serve children across Central Texas and Latin America.
One of the most moving moments of the night came when Josie Kelly, Austin Smiles’ Lead Parent Advocate, and her daughter Liz, a longtime participant in Austin Smiles’ local programs, took the stage to share their story. Josie spoke about the care and support Liz received from the very beginning—surgeries, speech therapy, and ongoing dental and orthodontic care—and how Austin Smiles has helped her daughter grow with confidence and belonging. She highlighted the impact of programs like the Holiday Party, Back-to-School Bash, and Parent Support Group, which provide connection and reassurance to families. Liz then shared her own words, describing how Camp Amigo helped her make friends, try new things, and meet Ellise Perry, “a friend who feels like family,” before thanking everyone for supporting Austin Smiles.
The success of this year’s gala was made possible through the leadership of Gala co-chairs Patty Johns and Michelle Jones, along with the dedicated Wish Upon a Smile Gala Planning Committee. Looking ahead, Dina Milhem and Blanca Ibarra have been announced as co-chairs for Austin Smiles’ 40th Anniversary Gala, scheduled for November 7, 2026, once again at the Oasis on Lake Travis.
Every year, Austin Smiles conducts three medical mission trips to Latin America, providing over 50 surgeries per trip and offering follow-up support, dental services, and speech therapy to approximately 150 children with cleft lip and palate. Locally, Austin Smiles serves over 800 patients annually in Central Texas, providing social and emotional programming, nutritional support, parent support groups, speech therapy, advocacy, and preventative dental care.
For those who missed the event, a recording of the live stream is available on Austin Smiles' Facebook and YouTube channels, featuring award presentations and Sir Woman’s performance. To learn more about volunteering or donating, please visit www.austinsmiles.org
