[December 6, 2022 – Blog] This fall has been one of the most incredible chapters of my life as I humbly accepted four esteemed leadership awards, each of which would have been uniquely gratifying in its own right. I do not share this to bring more attention to myself but rather because something profound happened to me as I accepted these awards. It became abundantly clear that I was only standing in the limelight because of the thousands, and I mean thousands of people throughout my life who surrounded me and helped guide me every step of the way. From my family, to teachers, to beloved friends and the countless stellar colleagues I have had the privilege to work with over the years.
With the support of so many, I was recognized as the very first female recipient of Austin Business Journal’s CEO Legacy Award and the Richard W. Weekley Public Policy Leadership Award by the Texas Leadership Council. I was also honored with a Barbara Bush Legacy Humanitarian Award by the Latino Learning Center in Houston, and my beloved alma mater, the University of Texas bestowed upon me its highest honor as one of the 2022 Distinguished Alumnus. Wow!
Receiving this recognition also helped me realize that I want to up my game when giving back to the institutions that helped me along the way and to future generations of leaders.
Although the spotlight has been on me this fall, I feel more like a mirror, hoping that light shines back on all of you and those I have not had the pleasure yet to meet in this life. May that same light inspire you to think about how you want to give back to the organizations and people who have meaning in your life.
Thank you doesn’t cut it, but it is the best I’ve got, and a pledge that I’ll do my darnedest to leave this world a better place.
Shining the light right back at you!
Gay Gaddis
Founder. Author. Artist. Trailblazer.
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