Ruth Altshuler and the J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award Luncheon

I just got back to the office from one of the most inspiring luncheons I have ever attended.  The 2011 J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award was presented to Ruth Altshuler in the beautiful Martha Proctor Mack Grand Ballroom in the Umphrey Lee Center at SMU.

Just being in this beautiful room was a treat to itself.  Mrs. Altshuler told me earlier this week that the room was so ugly until Interior Designer Extraordinaire Emily Summers donated her time and services.  The room is so chic now!  The walls are finished in gorgeous gray Venetian Plaster and the white columns and mouldings are so fresh and cheerful.

But being in the room in such great company was truly special!  The luncheon, chaired by the stylish Nancy Strauss Halbreich, was attended by an outstanding group of Mrs. Altshuler's friends including the charming former First Lady Laura Bush and the accomplished Nancy Brinker.

Mrs. Bush applauded Mrs. Altschuler for her tireless efforts and fantastic sense of humor.  She said that she once described her as a "Grand Dame" of Dallas but Mrs. Altshuler said, "That's fine but I would prefer to be called a Cute Young Thing!"  Mrs. Brinker applauded Mrs. Altshuler for her leadership and for bringing out the best in others.

The most touching moments of the event came when Mrs. Altshuler's daughter, Sally Sharp Harris, shared stories of her mother's caring heart.  She told us about the people who were hurting and struggling that her mom would read about in the paper.  She would cry over their situations and then go and visit them in the hospital or have them over for Sunday Supper.  She remained friends with them for many years.   Mrs. Altshuler's accomplishments have been talked about for years but the way she reached out to people with out any fanfare or any eyes watching her is a true testament to her sincerity and genuinely kind spirit.

When Mrs. Altshuler had her turn at the microphone she dazzled everyone in attendance by calling all of her charming grandchildren up to the stage.  She then shared adorable stories of her childhood and she had everyone laughing.  I can't think of a lady more deserving for such a prestigious award!

The luncheon closed with Mrs. Altshuler's grandson's singing their tribute song to her.  Their successful band is called Warren Charles they clearly adore their gramma!  To top it all of, today is her birthday so we all sang "Happy Birthday to Ruthie" at the end of the event.

Congratulations Mrs. Altshuler!  You deserve it!