George W. Bush, Dirk Nowitzki and a Host of VIPs Honor an Important Dallas Leader: Celebratory Night Raises $2.2 Million

What: 2017 Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award dinner

Where: Hilton Anatole Hotel

PC Moment: Amongst a merry crowd of family, friends, and supporters (including former President George W. Bush and Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki who appeared separately via video to offer their congrats), Methodist Foundation board member David B. Miller received the 2017 Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award.

Founded in 2005, the award annually recognizes those who showcase strong commitment to community leadership, emulating the achievements of its namesake, the late Dallas mayor Robert S. Folsom.

“This truly is a special night for me and my family,” Miller said, “but as we all know, this event really is about generating important financial resources for the mission of a 90-year-old institution in this city. [Methodist] serves as a beacon and a bridge to the southern part of our city, and in that regard, holds a unique place in the history of Dallas.”

The celebratory evening — which included Miller’s favorite mesquite-smoked peppered beef tenderloin, green chili hominy, and bread pudding from Perini Ranch Steakhouse — raised $2.2 million for the Robert S. Folsom Wellness Center, a new facility at Methodist Dallas Medical Center.

To date, the Folsom dinner has raised more than $16 million to benefit Methodist Health System’s programs and services.

Who: Co-chairs Jeanne Phillips, Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, Lottye and Bobby Lyle, and Gail and Gerald Turner; Methodist Health System president and CEO Stephen Mansfield, pastor Dr. Andrew C. Stoker, Tom Perini, Steve Folsom, Mike and Marla Boone, David and Tracey Huntley, Jim and Suzanne Johnston, Linda and Mitch Hart, and Ashlee and Chris Kleinert.