Julie Dalavai and a member of her family pull a blue flag off of a sign on a glass wall. The sign reads "Dalavai-Raulston Conference Room." Behind the glass wall, a conference room with a table and chairs is shown against a glass-walled backdrop showing panoramic views of the city.
Julie Dalavai (L), with the help of a family member, unveils the name of the Dalavai-Raulston Executive Conference room at the university's Dallas site. | Photo Credit: Jason Connel, ETAMU Marketing and Communications

Dalavai–Raulston Conference Room Dedicated at East Texas A&M University-Dallas

Dr. Emmanuel and Julie Dalavai of Dallas—with their extended families—were honored Monday during a dedication ceremony at East Texas A&M University-Dallas in recognition of their generous gift to the university. The Dalavais are friends and supporters of East Texas A&M.

During the ceremony, a sign was unveiled to reveal the new name of the 20th-floor executive conference room at ET's Dallas site. The Dalavai–Raulston Conference Room honors the lives and legacies of Mrs. Jaya Dalavai, Dr. Dalavai's mother, and Mr. Donald Ray Raulston, Julie Dalavai's father. The room is also dedicated to the couple's longtime mentor and close friend, Dr. Bill Anderson. Commemorative plaques recognizing each individual are displayed in the conference room.

The Dalavais’ family and friends gather around the newly unveiled Dalavai–Raulston Conference Room sign.
| Photo Credit: Jason Connel, ETAMU Marketing and Communications

The Dalavais' gift will fund nursing scholarships honoring Dr. Dalavai's mother, a nurse; scholarships for students who are U.S. military veterans, in tribute to Julie Dalavai's father; and other student initiatives.

Dr. Dalavai currently serves as an executive in residence at East Texas A&M, a role that reflects his commitment to student success and leadership development. The Executive in Residence Program connects accomplished professionals with students, bringing real-world experience into the academic environment through mentorship, guest lectures, workshops and strategic advising.

As an executive-in-residence at ET, Dr. Emmanuel Dalavai (R) serves as an important resource for students preparing for business careers.
| Photo Credit: Jason Connel, ETAMU Marketing and Communications

During the ceremony, university leaders reflected on the significance of the Dalavais' impact.

“We're blessed as a university to have their names associated with East Texas A&M,” said Devin Girod, ET's vice president for Philanthropy and Engagement.

Girod emphasized that the Dalavais' strong values, work ethic, and service are exactly what the university wants to instill in its students.

Explore giving opportunities at etamu.edu/Giving.

Browse the photo gallery for the Dalavai–Raulston Conference Room dedication.