Barbara Bush Inspires at 35th Annual Planned Parenthood Awards

The 35th annual Planned Parenthood Awards took place on December 9, 2025, at the Winspear Opera House in Dallas, Texas. The event attracted a full audience, showcasing the organization’s ongoing commitment to reproductive health and rights. Co-chairs Pam and John Beckert led the morning program, which featured a poignant conversation with activist and author Barbara Bush, moderated by five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Tashara Parker.

Bush, currently serving as the NBA’s Head of Social Responsibility, shared insights into her family background, combining humor with personal anecdotes. She reminisced about her grandmother, emphasizing her unwavering dedication to family and advocacy. The discussion highlighted the importance of resilience and commitment to social causes, resonating deeply with the audience.

Acknowledging Community Leaders and Journalistic Excellence

The event honored significant contributions to community service and journalism. The Gertrude Shelburne Humanitarian Award was awarded to Froswa’ Booker-Drew, Ph.D., recognizing her extensive work advocating for women and communities of color. In her acceptance speech, Booker-Drew discussed her collaboration with Planned Parenthood on a new initiative aimed at supporting women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. This effort reflects her broader commitment to philanthropy and leadership in North Texas and beyond.

The Katherine Ripley Print Media Award was presented to The Dallas Morning News for its investigative series titled “The Standard of Fear.” This series explored the repercussions of restrictive reproductive care in Texas through compelling first-person narratives, shedding light on critical issues affecting the community.

Following the awards ceremony, attendees continued to engage with the cause by dining at local restaurants, including Le Bilboquet and Nonna. These establishments generously donated a portion of their proceeds to support Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, extending the event’s impact throughout the city.

Community Engagement and Continued Support

The event not only celebrated notable achievements but also reinforced the importance of community involvement in advocacy efforts. Prominent attendees included Thana Hickman, Missy Falchi, and Ken Lambrecht, among others, showcasing a diverse group of supporters committed to advancing reproductive rights.

As the morning unfolded, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of purpose and motivation. The Planned Parenthood Awards served as a reminder of the ongoing fight for reproductive health access and the vital contributions of individuals and organizations in this arena. With a rich history of advocacy and a future focused on empowerment, Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas continues to inspire change and foster community support.

The success of this year’s event underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and action within the realm of reproductive health, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and community partnership.