Articles

Clifton and Shirley Caldwell and the Brownsville Historical Association, winners of the inaugural Humanities Texas Award, personify a dedication to the humanities that is not only remarkable in its own right, but also worthy of emulation.

Every year, the Humanities Texas Award will honor extraordinary service in advancing the humanities across the state, with particular attention to organizations and individuals that serve as models for others.

In nominating the Caldwells, Texas Historical Commission Executive Director F. Lawerence Oaks observed, "For almost four decades, this talented and generous couple has provided vision and leadership to the historic preservation community, at local, regional, and statewide levels." City Manager Charlie Cabler of Brownsville notes that the Brownsville Historical Association's efforts have "sparked an interest in the revitalization of historic downtown . . ."

On behalf of the Humanities Texas board and staff, I offer my appreciative congratulations to Shirley and Clifton, the Brownsville Historical Association, and our outstanding group of finalists.

Can you identify those organizations and individuals in your own communities whose humanities achievements deserve recognition? If so, please consider nominating them next spring for the Humanities Texas 2008 Awards.