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The Heroes Among Us
by Vickie McLemore
Although the College's undeniably talented physicians, educators, and scientists often catch the media's attention, few people are aware that an incredible support system stands behind them—the individuals, families, companies, and foundations that give generously of their time and funds to enable the College to achieve its mission.
Last summer, BCM nominated several of its exceptional patrons for award consideration by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Houston Chapter (AFP-Houston). Since 1986, the AFP has devoted one day in November—National Philanthropy Day—to celebrate the spirit of philanthropy and to honor award winners who raised the bar for philanthropy.
The selection committee must discern "the best of the best" from among a field of highly regarded philanthropists. This year, out of 10 winners, six were nominees submitted by BCM. They include some of Baylor's most dedicated donors.
Jan E. and Dan L. Duncan
Maurice Hirsch Award for Philanthropy
The Duncans, whose generosity established BCM's Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, received this award honoring the outstanding philanthropists of the year. Inspired by many of their own family members' personal battles against cancer, the Duncans' gift of $100 million is the largest donation in the College's history and will enable BCM to advance diagnosis, therapy, and cures for cancer patients.
Sue and Lester Smith
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
The Smiths are rare volunteers whose new model of activist philanthropy not only raises funds, but also increases awareness of the cause and encourages participation from diverse communities. Their efforts generated $6.4 million to benefit prostate cancer research at BCM through the creation and successful efforts of the Honor Your Father campaign.
The Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation
Outstanding Philanthropic Foundation
The Alkek Foundation has partnered with BCM for more than 30 years. Through strategic decision making, this thoughtful foundation has made a significant impact on the Texas Medical Center, the arts, and many community-based organizations and schools throughout Houston. BCM's cherished partnership with the Alkek family has truly transformed the institution. The Foundation's most recent commitment of $31.25 million will support priority research initiatives across the College.
Gallery Furniture
Houston Business Journal Outstanding Large Corporation
Gallery Furniture owner Jim McIngvale is the consummate role model for philanthropy and community involvement, both through his personal donations of time and money and through generous contributions from Gallery Furniture. McIngvale applied his dynamic personality to lead fundraising efforts for victims of the Asian Tsunami disaster and for victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The store's recent $3 million gift to the College will fund research into obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The Blue Bird Circle
Outstanding Community Service Organization
A unique organization of women volunteers formed in 1923, The Blue Bird Circle is dedicated to supporting The Blue Bird Circle Clinic for Pediatric Neurology at Texas Children's Hospital and The Blue Bird Circle Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory and Rett Center at BCM. The Circle's more than 600 dedicated members volunteer at the Clinic and in their resale shop, contributing over 59,000 volunteer hours annually. Proceeds from the shop and other fundraising activities raise more than $1 million annually.
The Pink Ribbon House
Outstanding Fundraising Program (raising over $250,000)
The Pink Ribbon House was created in 2003 by Houston home builder Royce Hassell to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer through the design, construction, decorating, touring, and sale of showcase homes. The builder and interior designers provide crucial in-kind support, but the project's success also depends on its hundreds of dedicated volunteers, including breast cancer survivors, who spearhead the event. Ticket and merchandise sales, and net proceeds from the home's sale, go directly to support BCM's Breast Center.
Other Winners
- Margaret Skidmore - Byron Welch Award for Lifetime Achievement in Fundraising
- tour de Pink - Outstanding Fundraising Program (raising under $250,000)
- M. Anne Murphy, C.F.R.E. - Outstanding Fund Raising Professional
- Cox Radio - Outstanding Media
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