HCC Foundation to honor trailblazing Leader Dr. Ruth Simmons at 2024 Gala

Apr 17, 2024

The Houston Community College (HCC) Foundation will honor Dr. Ruth Simmons, former educator and New York Times best-selling author, at the Foundation's 2024 Gala on Saturday, April 20, at the Hilton Americas.

Proceeds raised at the gala, "Where Dreams Take Flight," will be dedicated to supporting areas of greatest need and furthering the success of HCC students. Along with Dr. Simmons, attendees will hear from HCC Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D., and Foundation Board Chair Ryan McCauley.

Dr. Simmons is the Foundation's Crystal Eagle honoree. A native Texan, Dr. Simmons was the 12th child of sharecroppers who grew up to serve as president of Smith College, Brown University and Prairie View A&M. Today she is a President's Distinguished Fellow at Rice University.

Her book, Up Home: One Girl's Journey, is "a love letter to every person who helped Simmons make her way out of poverty," said the Washington Post.

Dr. Ford Fisher assumed her position as chancellor of HCC in January 2024. From 2018-2023, she served as founding president of HCC Online College, leading to the establishment of more than 60 fully online degrees and 70 hybrid programs, building a 62,000-plus enrollment. Before that, she served 20 years as HCC Northeast College president.

“We are thrilled to honor these trailblazing leaders at an event where our donors’ philanthropic generosity is focused on investing in HCC student success and sustainability of Houston’s economic development,” McCauley said.

The gala is open to the public and tickets are available. To secure a ticket, visit hccsfoundation.org/2024Gala, or call 713.851.6408.