The 35th annual Planned Parenthood Awards took place at the Winspear Opera House in Dallas on December 9, 2025, featuring a prominent conversation with former First Daughter Barbara Bush. The event, co-chaired by Pam and John Beckert, attracted a full audience eager to engage with key issues surrounding reproductive health and community advocacy.
During the morning program, Bush, who currently serves as the NBA’s Head of Social Responsibility, participated in a discussion moderated by five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Tashara Parker. Bush shared anecdotes about her family’s legacy, blending humor with heartfelt reflections on her grandmother’s unwavering commitment to family and causes she valued deeply.
Recognition for Community Advocacy
The ceremony also honored individuals making significant contributions to women’s health and community support. The Gertrude Shelburne Humanitarian Award was presented to Froswa’ Booker-Drew, Ph.D., whose acceptance speech highlighted her dedication to women and communities of color. Booker-Drew described her collaboration with Planned Parenthood on a new initiative designed to support women dealing with perimenopause and menopause, emphasizing the importance of these issues in her broader advocacy work across North Texas and beyond.
In recognition of journalism that sheds light on reproductive rights, the Katherine Ripley Print Media Award was awarded to The Dallas Morning News for its investigative series “The Standard of Fear.” This series examined the real-world implications of restrictive reproductive care in Texas through personal narratives, showcasing the profound effects of these policies on individuals and families.
Extending Impact Through Local Partnerships
Following the awards ceremony, attendees participated in a city-wide dining initiative. Several local restaurants, including Le Bilboquet, Nonna, Teak Tearoom, Mirador, and Lovers Seafood and Market, pledged a portion of their proceeds to Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas. This collaboration allowed the event’s impact to resonate throughout the community, reinforcing the importance of local support in advocacy efforts.
A diverse group of attendees, including community leaders and advocates such as Thana Hickman, Missy Falchi, and Katy Murray, gathered to celebrate the achievements in reproductive health advocacy and to foster continued collaboration for future initiatives.
The Planned Parenthood Awards not only celebrated past accomplishments but also set a tone for ongoing engagement in crucial health discussions, highlighting the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of reproductive rights.
