Dell-ightful Evening Goes Bold At The Bullock Texas State History Museum As Its Gala Honors The Philanthropy Of Susan And Michael Dell

21^St Annual Texas Independence Day Dinner Honors Tech Power Couple With Its History-Making Texan Award

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Chris Caselli

THE SCENE: The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum was the setting for a fabulous night that honored two legendary Texans who have substantially impacted the world. Nearly 500 of the state’s most prominent business leaders, elected officials, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 21^st annual Texas Independence Day Dinner. Hosted by the Texas State History Museum Foundation, the night honored Austinites Michael and Susan Dell with the History-Making Texan Award for their contributions in the business, technology, and philanthropy fields.

THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured a fun mix of traditional formal attire while others donned springlike bright colors, metallics, and floral prints. The result was a warm, welcoming environment for all who attended.

The evening kicked off with guests striking poses in front of the iconic Texas star, while the University of Texas Longhorn Singers, decked out in vibrant burnt-orange Western gear, belted out crowd favorites like The Eyes of Texas and set the tone for an epic night ahead. Partygoers then ascended the staircase in the Bullock Museum atrium for a lively cocktail hour, during which the crowd mingled and had the opportunity to congratulate the Dells and express their gratitude for all their contributions in Texas and beyond.

The action then moved down to the Bullock Museum atrium for the main program. Krystle Alvarado of Alvarado Consulting transformed the space into a springlike wonderland with stunning floral bouquets featuring purples, pinks, oranges, and greens surrounded by low-profile votives that perfectly complemented the crème-colored tablecloths. This allowed every guest to feel as though they were attending their own intimate dinner party for ten.

The program began with guests reciting the National and Texas anthems. Following words from event leaders, revelers had the opportunity to enjoy and savor a delectable, multi-course meal and chat with friends old and new.

The night was capped off with a beautiful tribute to the honorees, Michael and Susan Dell. One video highlighted both Michael Dell’s iconic and eponymous mark on the technology industry, Dell Technologies, which was founded in his college dorm room in 1984, that has fundamentally changed how we all live, work, and play. The other highlighted Susan Dell’s tireless work supporting many philanthropic causes over the years, whether through the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation or launching strategic initiatives, including a $42 million donation to the Rebuild Texas Fund in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. In both videos, one thing is clear: Michael and Susan’s love for each other.

The night was capped off with speeches by Michael and Susan Dell. Their speeches were filled with warmth and gratitude on this special night, which saw more than a few happy tears shed in the crowd. As guests left, they were given sweet bites to take home as a delicious reminder of a fabulous night for fundraising in Texas.

THE NON-PROFIT: The 21^st annual Texas Independence Day Dinner, co-chaired by Karl Rove and Jan Bullock, raised a record-breaking $1.29 million for the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Proceeds from the event will fund educational programs and special projects at the Museum.