Message to UTSW community: Go beyond what you think you can do
Roland Parrish, M.B.A., CEO and owner of Parrish Restaurants, Ltd., had a dream in 1987 to become a McDonald’s franchisee until a rejection letter from the company disrupted his plans. Undeterred, he kept reaching out to the corporate office for weeks until he eventually was accepted into a two-year, unpaid training program with the company. He went on to open his first McDonald’s on Juneteenth in 1989 and has continued to expand ever since. Today, he is the second largest African American franchisee of McDonald’s, owning 25 locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and has been a franchisee for over three decades.
“Go beyond what you think you can do and keep trying,” Mr. Parrish said. “Focus and don’t give up.”
During UT Southwestern’s annual Black History Month Celebration, the inspiring speaker shared his personal journey of achievement, demonstrating that with persistence and hard work, there is no limit to accomplishing a goal despite obstacles on your path.
Mr. Parrish spoke candidly on stage with Shawna Nesbitt, M.D., M.S., Vice President and Chief Institutional Opportunity Officer. Mr. Parrish also spoke of his passion for education. His nonprofit, Parrish Charitable Foundation, awards $200,000 in scholarships each year to Texas students. He shared he was thankful to be able to give back to others and hopes to help future generations succeed.
“If I can provide an opportunity to help someone achieve their goals and allow them to reach back and help someone else, that’s the gift that keeps on giving,” he said.
During his talk, he said one of his most impactful philanthropic initiatives is in partnership with UT Southwestern as an investor for the Reimagine RedBird project. The initiative brings medical and clinical services from Parkland Memorial Hospital and UT Southwestern to the southern Dallas sector.
“I’m really proud of the RedBird partnership with UTSW because it’s so significant to the community,” he said.
Mr. Parrish encouraged UT Southwestern attendees to make a positive impact by educating themselves, focusing on their goals, and showing up for others.
“Stand up for your rights – but also respect the rights of others,” he said. “I encourage you to not only respect your culture and heritage, but to celebrate all cultures.”
The UTSW Black History Month program was hosted by the Office for Institutional Opportunity. The event included a musical performance by Carmen Davis, M.A., Senior Education Coordinator for the Office of Student Affairs, and keyboard player Jeremiah Austin. The celebration also featured a dance performance by Bandan Koro, an African drum and dance ensemble. Before the program began, attendees had the opportunity to enjoy lunch featuring dishes from Black-owned restaurants.