The 35th annual Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas Awards took place on December 9, 2025, at the Winspear Opera House in Dallas, drawing a full house to celebrate achievements in reproductive health advocacy. Co-chaired by Pam and John Beckert, the event featured a live conversation with activist and author Barbara Bush, moderated by five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Tashara Parker.
During her discussion, Bush, who currently serves as the NBA’s Head of Social Responsibility, offered insight into her family’s legacy. Her stories ranged from humorous anecdotes about the Bush family to heartfelt reflections on her grandmother’s unwavering dedication to family and social causes. The engaging dialogue resonated with attendees, highlighting the significance of personal commitment in advocacy work.
The ceremony also honored notable contributions to the community. The Gertrude Shelburne Humanitarian Award was presented to Froswa’ Booker-Drew, Ph.D., recognizing her extensive work supporting women and communities of color. In her acceptance speech, Booker-Drew emphasized her collaboration with Planned Parenthood on a new initiative aimed at assisting women during perimenopause and menopause, further situating her efforts within a wider context of advocacy in North Texas and beyond.
Another highlight was the Katherine Ripley Print Media Award, awarded to The Dallas Morning News for its investigative series “The Standard of Fear.” This impactful series examined the real-world consequences of restrictive reproductive care in Texas, showcasing the challenges faced by many individuals through first-person narratives.
Following the awards ceremony, attendees participated in a citywide dining experience at local restaurants including Le Bilboquet, Nonna, and Teak Tearoom. These establishments donated a portion of their proceeds to Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, effectively extending the event’s impact throughout the community.
The event brought together numerous supporters and local leaders, including Thana Hickman, Missy Falchi, and Ken Lambrecht. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to advancing reproductive health and rights.
In celebrating both individual and organizational achievements, the 35th Annual Planned Parenthood Awards not only honored past contributions but also galvanized the community for future advocacy efforts, ensuring that conversations around reproductive health remain at the forefront in Texas and beyond.