Michael M. Boone Receives 2012 Methodist Health System Folsom Leadership Award

Music from the Highland Park High School Bagpipe Corps welcomed more than 750 attendees to the 2012 Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award at the Hilton Anatole Hotel on October 30. Established in 2005 by Methodist Health System Foundation, the award recognizes individuals whose demonstrated commitment and excellence in community leadership emulates the achievements of former Dallas Mayor Robert S. Folsom. The bagpipes were in honor of this year’s recipient, Highland Park alumnus Michael M. Boone. A skilled lawyer and dedicated community advocate, Boone has worked for education reform throughout the state of Texas.

Event chairman Fred Hegi introduced many of Boone’s achievements by saying, “Mike quietly at times —

and often not so quietly — has made a tremendous impact on this city and our state, just like Robert Folsom has done during his life.” Hegi continued, “He is the ‘go-to’ person for nonprofit organizations when a tough issue has to be addressed; he is a valued counselor and confidant to so many CEOs and boards of directors around the country; he’s there to help any friend regardless of the circumstance and time required; and he does all of this with the highest of integrity.”

Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, Heather Hunt, Ashlee Kleinert

Hegi then introduced a video message from former President George W. and First Lady Laura Bush.

“In every community, there are few individuals who stand out,” President Bush said. “You recognize them by their determination, passion, and unceasing work ethic. They have a habit of putting others’ interests above their own.”

Mrs. Bush, 2008 Folsom Leadership Award honoree, added, “Mike Boone is certainly the epitome of what the Folsom Leadership Award represents. It is especially meaningful to me that he has championed causes near and dear to our hearts: education and access to education in our schools and universities.”

April Box Chamberlain, Michael M. Boone, Karen Hughes, Fred Hegi 

After the video, Karen Hughes, former U.S. Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs and former counselor to President Bush, and Steve Folsom, Methodist Health System Foundation board chairman, presented the 2012 Robert S. Folsom Leadership award to Boone.

“I am deeply honored to accept this award,” said Boone. “The overarching reason for why we are all here tonight is to celebrate and show our support for the great work of the Methodist Health System. Your generosity will make a real difference and send a very resounding message — that Dallas values Methodist for everything it does in curing illness, relieving pain, and saving lives in our community.”

Boone ended his remarks with a tribute to his parents, saying, “To the extent that I have successfully contributed back to our community, I want you to know that all the credit belongs to my loving parents. They are the ones who shaped my character and made me who I am today.”