AUSTIN — The National Audubon Society celebrated an inspirational milestone earlier this month, the 10th Anniversary of the Texas Women in Conservation program, with a celebration hosted at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, TX.  

 Audubon recognized Lady Bird Johnson, former First Lady of the United States, with a posthumous Legacy Award. Luci Baines Johnson, daughter of Lady Bird and the late president Lyndon B. Johnson, received the award on her mother’s behalf.  

 Over the past decade, the Texas Women in Conservation program has honored more than 30 trailblazing women with the prestigious Terry Hershey Award. For this milestone celebration, all past recipients were invited to return, and the event celebrated the contributions of all honorees, including those whose impact continues beyond their lifetime. 

 “Texas Women in Conservation commemorates the women who have led conservation efforts in every corner of the state for well over a century,” said Audubon Executive Director Lisa Gonzalez. “The spirit of their work continues to inspire current and future generations of Texas conservation leaders every day. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring these champions together for a night of celebration and reflection on the roles of women in the Texas conservation community.” 

 The Terry Hershey Award honors outstanding women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in conservation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement across Texas. The award is named after the late Terry Hershey, who dedicated much of her life to conservation efforts, especially in Houston. Mrs. Hershey was a former Texas Parks and Wildlife commissioner, and served on boards for various conservation organizations, including the National Audubon Society, Houston Audubon Society, and Audubon’s Texas State Advisory Board. 

 More information on Texas Women in Conservation can be found on the Audubon Texas website.