Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
The Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association (RGVDA) is excited to announce its 17th annual Gala, “Dancing with the Stars of Hidalgo County,” scheduled for November 2nd at the Mission Events Center. The event promises an impressive lineup of local stars ready to dance for a cause.
This year’s participants include Dr. Annabelle Palomo and Omar Longoria, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, along with other notable community members such as Mario Lizcano, Rick Salinas, Rudy Zamarano, Amanda Esquivel, Judge Sergio Valdez, Joe Luis Sanchez, Annail Vela, Dr. Dustin Luebbers, and Sylvia Cantu.
Spotlight on Dr. Annabelle Palomo
Dr. Annabelle Palomo, a Rio Grande Valley native, brings an extensive academic and professional background to the dance floor. With a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate in education from the University of Texas-Pan American, Palomo has over 17 years of experience in various educational roles. Her passion for education led her to establish the Rio Grande Valley College (RGV College) in 2008 and the Meraki Institute of Beauty and Wellness (Meraki Institute) in 2019, where she serves as CEO.
Palomo’s contributions to the fields of Nursing, Allied Health, and the Beauty Industry are remarkable. She has dedicated her career to maintaining high educational standards and advocating for the success of both children and adults. Her efforts have significantly impacted countless students and continue to shape future generations.
Highlighting Omar Longoria
Omar Longoria, co-owner of Vitality Family Medical Group, boasts 19 years of nursing experience. A nationally board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2021, Longoria has expertise in emergency medicine, medical-surgical care, transitional care, geriatrics, and COVID-19 critical care units. He notably served as the first NICHE program Director for South Texas’s largest hospital system and managed the region’s largest COVID-19 unit at the pandemic’s peak. Currently, he is pursuing a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
The RGVDA is a local, independent nonprofit diabetes association dedicated to serving the residents of Hidalgo County. The funds generated from the gala support programs and services are tailored specifically for the area, focusing on diabetes prevention, early detection, and awareness through educational services.
For those interested in more information or sponsorship opportunities, please contact the RGVDA office at (956) 318-1900. Join us for a night of entertainment and community spirit, all in support of a great cause.