Annual Speaker Series
An evening that Gives Back
What is the SMC Speaker Series?
The St. Mary of Carmel Catholic School Speaker Series is an annual gathering that brings nationally recognized Catholic leaders, thinkers, and storytellers to our community. Rooted in our mission to form students in faith and excellence, this event celebrates learning, fellowship, and the shared values that unite us.
Each year’s presentation not only enriches our hearts and minds—it also raises vital funds that directly support our students, teachers, and programs.
2026-2027 Featured Speaker
Paul J. Kim
November 21 • Terry Center At Jesuit Dallas • 5:00 PM
For more than two decades, Paul J. Kim has captivated audiences across the United States and around the world through his unique combination of storytelling, music, humor, and faith. A nationally recognized Catholic speaker, Paul brings the Gospel to life in a way that is engaging, relatable, and thought-provoking for audiences of all ages.
We are excited to welcome Paul to our community for an evening of faith, laughter, and meaningful reflection.
The Speaker Series Collection
Voices Through the Years
Explore past Speaker Series events, featured Catholic voices, event highlights, and the generous community that made each year possible.
2025-2026
Katie Prejean McGrady
2024-2025
Previous Speaker
2023-2024
Previous Speaker
2025-2026 Featured Speaker
Katie Prejean McGrady
Katie Prejean McGrady is an award-winning author, international speaker, and host on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel. A graduate of the University of Dallas, she has spent her career in youth ministry, Catholic education, and faith formation, speaking at parishes, schools, conferences, and retreats across the country.
Katie is the author of six books with Ave Maria Press and hosts the Ave Explores podcast. She also co-hosts Family Mass Prep on the Hallow app with her husband, Tommy, and Like a Mother, a podcast exploring the joys and challenges of motherhood.
A passionate advocate for young people in the Church, Katie has consulted for the USCCB and recently helped facilitate a dialogue with Pope Leo at the National Catholic Youth Conference. She lives in Lake Charles, Louisiana, with her husband and their two daughters.
Event Highlights
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Thank you to our generous donors, dedicated ticket holders, and valued sponsors for joining us for a memorable evening with Katie McGrady at our Annual Speaker Series 2026. Your presence and support made it a truly special night of inspiration and community. Together, we learned to let go and trust in God, remembering that His plans are always perfect. We are grateful for your continued commitment and look forward to many more uplifting experiences together.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous support of our Annual Speaker event featuring Katie McGrady at the Terry Center. Your commitment to our mission and your belief in the power of faith-based education make these special gatherings possible.
Saint Sponsors
Ray Wooldridge
Tara & Tom Walsh
Mary Ann & Max Wernick
The Clock Family
Julio Medina & Olga Guzmán.
Scholar Sponsors
Cathy & Jim Timmers
Raul & Carmen Estrada
Joe & Elizabeth Nava
Tina & Phil Morales
Eileen & Jeff Sherman
St. Rita Catholic School
Tessa & Howard Hambleton
Reynaldo Avilés,
Cecilia & Kip Kernodle.
Partner Organizations
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Love. Learn. Strive. Serve. Forgive
Saint Mary of Carmel
Catholic School
Welcome to St. Mary of Carmel Catholic School! For eight decades, we've walked alongside families in the West Dallas community, forming Pre-K3 through 8th grade students through a faith-based education that nurtures mind, heart, and spirit. Here, our students live out their Catholic faith boldly and hold close the values of love, strive, serve, forgive, and learn.
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