BrainHealth’s Legacy Award Dinner Honored Sarah And Ross Perot Jr. with Luminaries
My Sweet Charity
Jeanne Prejean
Overview
Center for BrainHealth’s 2026 Legacy Award Dinner delivered an unforgettable evening of patriotism, purpose, and philanthropy as leaders from across North Texas gathered to honor Sarah and Ross Perot Jr. who received the award in recognition of their decades of service and generosity.Set against the striking architecture of the National Medal of Honor Museum, the sold‑out event welcomed 220 distinguished guests, including civic leaders, business icons, military veterans, and longtime BrainHealth supporters. A local strings duo set a warm, elegant tone as attendees mingled in the Lincoln Lobby before moving into Patrick Brady Hall for a Texas‑inspired dinner framed by lush florals and the iconic Yellow Rose of Texas.
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“Standing in this extraordinary museum reminds us of the courage and sacrifice that define our country. Sarah and I are humbled by this honor, and grateful for the work BrainHealth does to strengthen minds, families, and communities.”— Ross Perot Jr.
The program featured remarks from Dinner Chair Debbie Francis; UT System Chancellor John Zerwas, MD; UT Dallas President Prabhas Moghe, PhD; and former Navy SEAL Clint Bruce — culminating in a keynote address by Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret.) centered on a moving tribute to the Perot family’s legacy of service.
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“The Perot family has never sought the spotlight. Their service and generosity have always come from a deep sense of duty. In the SEAL Teams we say, ‘the deed is all, not the glory,’ and no family embodies that more.”
— Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret.)
Center for BrainHealth Chief Director Sandi Chapman, PhD, presented the award, celebrating the Perots’ unwavering commitment to advancing brain health and supporting America’s warriors. A video message from President George W. Bush added heartfelt recognition of their long‑standing impact.
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“Sarah and Ross have supported the Center’s mission from the start, helping it grow into the world‑class institution it is today. Their commitment to improving brain health, especially for our warriors, reflects both their patriotism and compassion.”
— President George W. Bush
Following the award presentation, guests enjoyed a private after‑hours tour of the museum’s galleries — an immersive, emotional experience that reinforced the evening’s themes of courage, leadership and service.Read more at My Sweet Charity
BrainHealth's highest non-science honor, the Legacy Award recognizes unwavering passion and dedication that enable the center to generate a sustainable impact.
Adm. William McRaven (ret.) revealed a $2 million BrainHealth challenge match while accepting the 2024 Bezos Courage & Civility Award, presented by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez. McRaven and his wife Georgeann pledged the gift to support of Optimal BrainHealth for Warfighters.