2017 Guardian of the Human Spirit Luncheon

Greg Fenves

Holocaust Museum Houston is set to honor Gregory L. Fenves, president of The University of Texas at Austin, and The University of Texas at Austin with the 2017 Guardian of the Human Spirit Award for their commitment to service and building an open-minded society.

The museum’s annual Guardian of the Human Spirit luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017 at Hilton Americas-Houston. Established in 1997, the Guardian of the Human Spirit Award is a platform for acknowledging dedicated individuals and institutions who have worked to enhance the lives of others and to better humankind.

Gregory L. Fenves, the 29th president of The University of Texas at Austin, has impacted society with his lifelong dedication to teaching, research and academic leadership. As the son of a Holocaust survivor, Fenves appreciates the important role immigrants continue to play in making America “better, richer and stronger.” He encourages tomorrow’s leaders to work with people from different backgrounds to gain experience and understanding of new perspectives. He credits his father’s courage as an immigrant to the United States, and his own insights gained from living summers in Mexico City, for helping shape his global view.

Honorary Chairs are The Jack S. Blanton Family, The Cockrell Family and UT System Chancellor Bill McRaven. Luncheon Chairs include prominent Houstonians Linda and Les Allison, Tali and Eric Blumrosen, Hannah and Cal McNair, and Kelly and Bill Montgomery. The Host Committee is chaired by Pauline and Alfie Meyerson. PaperCity magazine serves as media sponsor. Linda Lorelle, president and executive producer of Lorelle Media, will serve as mistress of ceremonies.