Hill exemplifies qualities Texans hold dear

The State Fair of Texas awarded the 2026 Pride of Texas Award to Lyda Hill (pictured in red), a life-long entrepreneur, philanthropist and advocate for science-driven solutions to global challenges. The award was presented in front of the Hall of State at Fair Park during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 State Fair of Texas. Established in 2014, the Pride of Texas Award honors individuals or organizations that exemplify the qualities Texans hold dear: resilience, loyalty, generosity and selflessness. This year’s recipient personifies what it means to be Texan, building businesses, investing in science and innovation, supporting nonprofits and helping communities across Texas and beyond. A Dallas native and member of the Giving Pledge, Hill has dedicated her career and personal wealth to empowering science–driven solutions and strengthening communities across Texas. Since founding Hill World Travel in 1967, her visionary efforts have expanded into groundbreaking investments across health, education and regional infrastructure. Helping revitalize the historic Fort Worth Stockyards in the 1990s, as well as revitalizing Pegasus Park in Dallas into a social impact and biotech hub, her commitment to Texas communities through Lyda Hill Philanthropies has helped connect surplus Texas produce with people who need fresh food and make public greenspaces available to more residents throughout the city. The 2026 Pride of Texas Award was presented to Hill in recognition of her extraordinary impact across the Lone Star State. — Taylor Pulfer