Social Hour: The Long Center Icon Awards Luncheon

The Long Center for the Performing Arts hosted its annual fundraising luncheon, the Icon Awards, on March 27. The event was attended by more than 200 guests and aimed to recognize the significant contributions of H-E-B and the trio of Jo Anne Christian, Jane Sibley, and Jare Smith, affectionately known as “The Three J’s.” These individuals played a crucial role in bringing the Long Center’s dream to life and were honored for their unwavering dedication. The glamorous occasion illuminated the Long Center in all its grandeur.

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Meredith Family Stage in Dell Hall, the event bestowed the prestigious Icon Award upon deserving recipients while paying homage to the enduring spirit of collaboration and artistic innovation that defines Austin. Attendees enjoyed captivating performances by local talents from the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, and Ballet Austin, showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

At its core, the Icon Award honors individuals, corporations, and organizations whose profound commitment to the arts mirrors the Long Center’s inclusivity and cultural enrichment values. Previous recipients, such as AT&T and philanthropist Eva Womack, embody the spirit of this principle.

Generous sponsors, led by H-E-B, have played an instrumental role in the Long Center’s journey, providing support that enables the center to host hundreds of free community events and performances on its renowned H-E-B Terrace.

Renowned for its spirit of innovation and dedication to environmental sustainability, H-E-B proudly commemorates its 118th anniversary this year. Headquartered in San Antonio, H-E-B’s expansive footprint spans over 400 stores, boasting a workforce of more than 154,000 Partners across Texas and Mexico. H-E-B continues to serve millions of customers across more than 300 communities while embodying the essence of corporate citizenship and community enrichment.

As the curtains close on another unforgettable chapter in the Long Center’s history, we commend the visionary leadership of “The Three J’s” and the unwavering generosity of H-E-B. Their collective impact resonates far beyond the confines of a single event, serving as a beacon of inspiration and hope for generations to come.