Dallas Market Center has announced the creation of the Bill Winsor Retailing Scholarship as a new endowed scholarship at Texas A&M University. The scholarship honors the legacy of Bill Winsor, former president, CEO and chairman emeritus of Dallas Market Center.
Winsor joined Dallas Market Center in 1993 following his leadership at Infomart. Over a multi-decade career, he helped to grow Dallas Market Center, overseeing thousands of trade events and helping launch businesses across home decor, lighting, apparel and gift. Winsor passed away in December 2024 following a brief illness.
Dallas Market Center says the new scholarship will support upperclassmen in the Mays School of Business and the Center for Retailing Studies who plan to pursue careers in retail or wholesale. The scholarship is planned to be endowed at $100,000 or more, ensuring perpetual support for students exploring the business of retail.
“Bill was passionate about entrepreneurship and the power of retail to support communities across the U.S.,” says Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “He also mentored generations of professionals, and this scholarship will continue that legacy by supporting future leaders in retail.”
According to Dallas Market Center, the scholarship is being established through a grassroots campaign by colleagues and friends who were inspired by Winsor’s leadership, entrepreneurial vision and belief in the power of commerce. A steering committee of industry leaders is lending support to help raise funds for the scholarship: George Kacic, CEO of Margins USA; Chuck Fraelich, president of Tag; and Alison Dodson, owner of retailer A. Dodson’s. Other committee members include Troy Lee, president of Savoy House; Maria Mullen, CEO of Hubbardton Forge; Rick Seidman, CEO of Quoizel; and Roxie Orms with Clint Orms Engravers and Silversmiths.
Dallas Market Center says it welcomes donations of any amount toward the new Bill Winsor Retailing Scholarship. Administered by the Texas A&M Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, donations toward the scholarship are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Contributions may be made online, by mail or by contacting the Texas A&M Foundation directly. Giving options are also available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com/billwinsor.
