On the evening of Tuesday, April 9th, A Celebration of Reading guests arrived at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in a dazzling display of support for literacy. This year marked a significant milestone as A Celebration of Reading commemorated its 30th anniversary, coinciding with what would have been President George H. W. Bush’s 100th birthday. Hosted by Maria and Neil Bush, alongside other esteemed hosts, the event unfolded with grace and purpose, benefiting both local and national literacy efforts championed by the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.

The evening commenced with a flourish as nearly 1,200 guests gathered to honor Mrs. Barbara Bush's enduring passion for literacy. Through the collective generosity of attendees and the tireless efforts of the Foundation, A Celebration of Reading raised $2.2 million, a testament to the enduring impact of the literacy legacy.

The roster of distinguished authors brought both insight and entertainment to the stage. Jean Becker, Chris Bohjalian, Gary Gulman, and Brad Taylor captivated the audience with their stories and perspectives, showcasing the diverse tapestry of literature's influence. From tales of presidential anecdotes to gripping narratives of military service and humor that resonated through the ages, each author left an indelible mark on the evening.

The Bush family, with their deep commitment to literacy, graced the event with their presence, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. Their words of gratitude and encouragement underscored the importance of literacy as a cornerstone of education and empowerment.

“Mom’s passion for literacy and her insistence on its importance in being able to fulfill ones true potential has done amazing things in this city and beyond over the last thirty years,” said Neil Bush. “We could not have accomplished so many amazing things without the help and support of the team at The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and all of those who share their enthusiasm for literacy and progress.”

The support from sponsors such as Phillips 66, ConocoPhillips, the John P. McGovern Foundation, Enbridge, Marathon Oil, H-E-B, and others, exemplifies a community united in the cause of literacy. Their contributions, alongside the generosity of attendees and the engaging program, ensured a memorable and impactful evening.

As the event drew to a close, guests savored a delightful meal courtesy of City Kitchen Catering, surrounded by the beauty of floral arrangements from H-E-B. The spirit of giving continued with a raffle sponsored by Tenenbaum Jewelers, further bolstering the Foundation’s My Home Library program.

The celebration doesn't end here. Stay tuned for KPRC 2's exclusive broadcast in May, highlighting the event's stories of impact and the ongoing journey towards a more literate and empowered society.

A Celebration of Reading 2024 was more than an event; it was a testament to the enduring power of words and the collective effort to make literacy accessible to all. As we reflect on this milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this evening a resounding success. Together, we continue to write the story of a brighter, more literate future.