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Gift from Distinguished Alum to Support Jindal Young Scholars

By: Daniel Steele | October 18, 2024

Dr. Sulman Ahmed in a suit speaking on a stage.
Dr. Sulman Ahmed BA’01 leads one of the fastest-growing dental practices in the nation, DECA Dental Group.

A gift from Dr. Sulman Ahmed BA’01 will establish a new endowment at The University of Texas at Dallas to benefit the Jindal Young Scholars Program in the Naveen Jindal School of Management. Ahmed is the founder, chairman and CEO of DECA Dental Group and a recipient of the 2024 UT Dallas Distinguished Alumni Award. His commitment was officially announced during the 2024 Jindal School Scholarship Breakfast, where Ahmed served as keynote speaker.

The gift will create a scholarship fund for students in the Jindal Young Scholars Program, which supports the academic, social and emotional development of students in the Dallas Independent School District to improve college and career readiness. The program advances UT Dallas’ commitment to nurturing future leaders and supporting student success.

“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ahmed for his generosity and unwavering support of UTD,” said Dr. Hasan Pirkul, Caruth Chair and dean of the Naveen Jindal School of Management. “This endowment will have a lasting impact on our students, providing them with opportunities to thrive academically and professionally.”

Ahmed BS’01 (center) with participants in the Jindal Young Scholars Program at the 2024 Jindal School Scholarship Breakfast.
Ahmed BS’01 (center) with participants in the Jindal Young Scholars Program at the 2024 Jindal School Scholarship Breakfast.

Ahmed’s contribution reflects his ongoing dedication to the University and its mission to foster academic and professional growth.

“I owe a tremendous debt to UT Dallas for the education and opportunities it provided me as an undergraduate,” said Ahmed. “I have a deeply held belief that education and innovation have the power to transform lives. By supporting UT Dallas’ pursuit of excellence and its mission to positively impact students and industries in North Texas, I hope to give back to the institution that played such a pivotal role in my personal and professional journey.”

Since graduating from UT Dallas, Ahmed has become a distinguished leader in the business world. As founder, chairman and CEO of DECA Dental Group, the parent company of Ideal Dental, Ahmed has expanded the company to nearly 200 locations across nine states, growing a reputation for patient-centered care and innovative leadership. Under his guidance, DECA Dental Group has earned numerous awards and recognitions, establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing dental services organizations in the country.