Rising hospital executive leads year-round campaign to improve health in Bell County
TEMPLE, Texas, Feb. 27, 2025 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced today that Dell Ingram-Walker, president of Baylor Scott & White McLane Children's Medical Center, is volunteer chairperson for the 2025 Bell County Heart Ball. Ingram-Walker will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in the Killeen-Temple metropolitan area has the opportunity for a full, healthy life.
The Heart Ball, set for April 26, 2025, at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center, celebrates hope and progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association’s efforts to make an impact on the health of the community. These efforts include the pursuit of scientific discoveries, public policy change, equitable health for the under resourced and underrepresented, and education to equip the community to take control of their health.
Last year’s Bell County Heart Ball drew more than 400 people and raised more than $440,000. This year’s affair, with the theme Hearts in Bloom, will honor volunteers and patrons and will entertain guests with dinner, live and silent auctions and dancing to the music of The Pictures Band. Proceeds will go toward CPR education and hypertension awareness in the area.
“Ingram-Walker demonstrates outstanding leadership and dedication at the helm of McLane. Her passion and commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, deep understanding of community needs and unwavering drive to make a difference positions her as the perfect choice to chairperson this event,” said Lyndie Miller, development director with the American Heart Association in Waco and Bell County.
“We welcome her to the Heart of Bell County, an initiative that centers around better health for every individual by focusing on critical issues and work to equitably improve and save lives,” said Miller.
Dell has been a mainstay of the community and a valued member of the Baylor Scott & White Health family for over 25 years. She started her journey as a financial analyst and steadily advanced within children’s services, becoming vice president of clinic operations in 2013. Dell was pivotal in expanding ambulatory services, overseeing the design, construction, and operations of ten pediatric clinics in Central Texas, including the 112,000-square-foot McLane Children’s Specialty Clinic.
In October 2018, she was promoted to vice president of hospital operations, where she managed the expansion of the emergency department, procedure suites, MRI and physical therapy/occupational therapy spaces while continuing to lead the clinics.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dell played a crucial role in raising community awareness and guiding the hospital through the crisis. Her outstanding contributions were recognized with her promotion to chief operating officer in 2021 and President in 2024. Additionally, she serves on multiple boards and actively participates in several organizations.
Ingram-Walker lost her mother to cardiac amyloidosis, a genetic heart condition that was unknown until her passing. The condition led to a TIA, or ministroke, and then a stroke.
“I’m passionate about healthcare, but especially as it relates to heart disease,” she said. “My mother’s death serves as a reminder to me to always do those things that I can to help prevent it, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress.”
“I am looking forward to fostering new and old relationships, hearing stories of how heart disease has affected families in Bell County and strengthening our community impact,” Ingram-Walker added.
The 2025 Bell County Heart Ball is presented locally by the McLane Group and sponsored by McLane Company Inc.
For more information on how to support or attend the 2025 Bell County Heart Ball, visit heart.org/BellCountyHeartBall or email Lyndie.Miller@heart.org.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
