Three noteworthy Austinites will be honored for their contributions to the Austin community in an upcoming celebration hosted by Leadership Austin. Ballet Austin Executive Director Cookie Ruiz, Ron Kessler of the Ron Kessler Group, and Lydia Clay of Momark Development were selected based on their continued commitment to the core values of Leadership Austin: community trusteeship, inclusiveness, collaborative decision-making, and personal responsibility.
This year’s recipients will be honored at Brazos Hall on June 2 at the 2017 Best Party Ever presented by H-E-B, an acclaimed annual social event benefiting Leadership Austin.
“Ms. Ruiz, Mr. Kessler and Ms.Clay are such an example of civic leadership because they lead and collaborate with others for the betterment of the community overall,” said Ali Khataw, Board Chair of Leadership Austin. “We are thrilled to honor them, and we hope supporters across Central Texas will join us in celebrating their leadership.”
Cookie Ruiz, Essential Class of 1995, will be presented with the Polly Scallorn Community Trustee Award, for her embodiment of Leadership Austin values through her service as Executive Director of Ballet Austin.
Ron Kessler, of the Ron Kessler Group, will receive the Exceptional Award for an Honorary Alumnus, for his leadership in public policy initiatives for the technology economy in the community and his board service for various non-profits.
Lydia Clay, Essential Class of 2016, will receive the Ascendant Award for exercising great personal responsibility in helping the lifesaving efforts for a fellow classmate’s young child.
“Leadership Austin’s mission is to create a stronger Austin by creating stronger Austin leaders,” said Christopher Kennedy, CEO of Leadership Austin. “These three leaders perfectly exemplify that mission.”
For more information, tickets or sponsorship opportunities for Best Party Ever, visit LeadershipAustin.org. You can also find the latest updates on the party and Leadership Austin on Facebook or Twitter (@Lead_Austin).