Two-minute impact
Funds raised by the gala go toward providing resources for individuals and families in crisis such as food, shelter, clothing vouchers, rent, mortgage and utilities, according to a news release.
The event, which has been held annually since 1999, was held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center and presented by Woodforest National Bank with more than 600 guests, according to a news release.
Quote of note
“We are grateful for the support from our entire community—from the original visionaries of The Woodlands to new residents, Celebration of Excellence brings everyone together in the name of service, giving, and celebrating our amazing Heroes,” said Missy Herndon, president and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, in a news release.
The details
The year's honorees were recognized for contributions to the community.
Cathy Brady
The longtime resident of The Woodlands is married to retired U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady and has served on the Grogan’s Mill Village Association board, was a founding member of The Woodlands Fourth of July Committee board, a member of the United Way board, was a volunteer at Pregnancy Assistance Center North and a founding director of The Woodlands Children’s Museum among other accomplishments, according to the news release. She was also elected to The Woodlands Community Association board of directors in 1992, when it was the governing body of The Woodlands.
Jim Rapp
A longtime area resident and graduate of McCullough High School, Rapp is a football player and coach who has taught at Conroe ISD and has been head coach and athletic director of The Woodlands High School since 2018. He has also been named District Coach of the Year and received other honors while also volunteering at many area organizations, according to the news release.
Jim Wendt
An architect who worked with the planning department of The Woodlands Development Company, Wendt was one of the individuals who helped to plan and design the community including the internal layout of each neighborhood. He also designed many parks and has had Wendtwoods Park named after him. Wendt has also served on many location boards such as Community Association Boards and the Design Review Committee, according to the news release.
Nick Wolda
Currently the president of Visit The Woodlands, the township's convention and visitors bureau, Wolda has worked in The Woodlands since 1999, according to the news release. He initially worked with the Town Center Improvement District on projects like launching The Woodlands Waterway Mariott Hotel & Convention Center, expanding the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and developing Market Street. He also was a founding member of The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival and has coached local sports teams as well as serving on other local boards and committees.
Truluck’s The Woodlands
The seafood restaurant partners with community organizations and nonprofits including Yes to Youth and Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Yes to Youth
The nonprofit has served the youth of Montgomery County for 45 years, working to strengthen the emotional and mental health development of young people with crisis intervention, counseling and other programs. Its services also include a safe home for youth ages 10-17, BridgeWay Home.
