(AUSTIN, TX) – World-renowned heart surgeon Dr. Denton Cooley, legendary urban developer Gerald Hines, and internationally-acclaimed opera singer Barbara Smith Conrad were presented with the History-Making Texan Award at the Texas State History Museum Foundation’s Seventh Annual Texas Independence Day Dinner on March 2, 2011, at The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin.
“Texans are known for their indomitable spirit, and these three individuals have refused to accept the status quo and have shaped history with their monumental accomplishments and become world renowned in their respective fields,” said Foundation Board President John Fainter.
“They have opened doors, saved lives, changed cities, and inspired people throughout the world.
It is a privilege to honor them as history-making Texans.”
The History-Making Texan Award recognizes living Texas legends whose contributions to the state and the nation have been truly historic and exceptional in scope.
Previous recipients include Governor Dolph Briscoe; President and Mrs. George H.W. Bush; President and Mrs. George W. Bush; Governor and Mrs. William P. Clements, Jr.; Mr. Van Cliburn; Mr. Walter Cronkite; Dr. Michael DeBakey; Lieutenant Governor Bill Hobby; Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson; Mr. Herb Kelleher; and Mr. Darrell K Royal.
The Texas State History Museum Foundation’s annual Texas Independence Day Dinner celebrates Texas Independence Day and honors the history of Texas, while promoting awareness of and supporting The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.
Hundreds of business, political, and community leaders from around the state attend the event each year.
The honorary chair of the 2011 gala is Jan Bullock.
The Foundation has selected Patricia Dewhurst, wife of Lt. Governor David Dewhurst, and prominent Dallas community leader Debbie Raynor to co-chair the event.
Proceeds from the evening benefit the many educational programs and special projects of The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, the nation’s premier institution on Texas history.
The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum will celebrate its 10th Anniversary in 2011.
The Museum opened in Austin in April 2001 with a formal dedication by President George W. Bush.
Ten years later, the Museum has shared the inspiring Story of Texas with over 4.5 million visitors—including more than 2 million schoolchildren —from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and over 17 countries.
The Museum continues to be an exceptional place where people love to learn about the proud and rich history of Texas.