Jim and Kathy Collins Honored as 2025 Border Texans of the Year
The 2025 Border Texan of the Year Gala, held in McAllen, Texas, marked an extraordinary celebration for the Rio Grande Valley community as Jim and Kathy Collins were honored for their longstanding contributions. Hosted on May 8, the gala also kicked off the MXLAN Festival, raising over $100,000 for local non-profits, reinforcing the event’s significance to South Texas.
Celebrating the Collins’ Legacy
Recognized for their philanthropic and leadership efforts, Jim and Kathy Collins have become pivotal figures in regional development. Their involvement through the James W. and Kathleen C. Collins Family Foundation stands as a testament to their dedication to economic growth and cultural enrichment. Their contributions span various sectors, highlighting the couple’s commitment to enhancing the lives of Valley residents.
“We are thrilled to honor Jim and Kathy,” stated McAllen City Manager Isaac Tawil during the gala’s welcome address. Tawil emphasized their role as “trailblazers” in fostering economic development and cultural vitality, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in attendance.
Impact on the Rio Grande Valley
The gala underscored the Collins’ impact on the Rio Grande Valley through substantial financial support to local initiatives. Beneficiaries included the Performing & Cultural Arts Foundation, the Vannie Cook Cancer Foundation, and educational institutions like South Texas College and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). By aligning the gala with the MXLAN Festival, the event celebrated South Texas’s rich cultural legacy, choosing the theme: “They are the roots, we are the flowers.”
Dr. Guy Bailey, representing UTRGV, expressed gratitude for the honorees’ continuous support, noting how their contributions have propelled educational and cultural advancements in the area.
Proclamations and Tributes
During the event, McAllen City Commissioners declared May 8, 2025, as “Jim and Kathy Collins Day.” The proclamation cited the couple’s steadfast dedication to enhancing regional institutions and their influential roles within the community.
Notable political figures, including U.S. Senator John Cornyn, praised the Collinses via video messages, commending their service to South Texas. Ruben Villarreal presented a U.S. flag flown over the Capitol in their honor, further reinforcing the depth of their community contributions.
Historical Context and Vision
The gala echoed with tributes to the late Joe Vera, a public servant who envisioned events like the Border Texan of the Year recognition. John David Franz, a former honoree, shared a historical overview, tying the event back to the 1976 Fiesta Fronteriza celebration in Hidalgo, Texas. He announced a scholarship in Vera’s memory, honoring his legacy in shaping both Border Fest and this gala tradition.
Jim Collins, in his remarks, voiced admiration for the collective resilience of the Valley, highlighting the importance of institutions like UTRGV in cultivating a promising future. Kathy Collins echoed these sentiments, celebrating the Valley’s unity and commitment to service.
Fostering Future Growth
The gala’s impact extends beyond celebratory recognition, fostering dialogue on regional growth and development. As South Texas continues to evolve, the event sets a precedent for sustainable community investment, aligning with initiatives aimed at boosting regional commerce, education, and cultural projects.
An array of sub-themes such as leadership, community collaboration, and educational support were interwoven throughout the night, reflecting broader themes present in the RGV’s developmental narrative.
Community Engagement and Resources
For those interested in understanding more about the Collins’ work or how to engage in local initiatives, the community has access to numerous channels through the Texas Border Business publication. With a wide distribution network and digital presence, it remains a key resource in illustrating the Valley’s stories and achievements.
As the RGV news cycle often underscores community interest and regional ties, the Collins’ recognition as 2025 Border Texans of the Year signifies both an honor and a call to action, inviting continued collaboration and unity within the Valley.
With their legacy rooted deeply in the fabric of South Texas, Jim and Kathy Collins exemplify the spirit of service that propels the Rio Grande Valley forward, illuminating the path for future success stories and regional milestones.
