The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History proudly announces the following award winners: Postoak Florist, Outstanding Community Partner; Dr. Bobby Presley, Outstanding Volunteer, Ellen Thornton, Outstanding Board Member; and a special award to BG Joe Ramirez, our Tribute Honoree of 2023. 

Awards will be presented at the Brave Heart: A Tribute to Joe Ramirez at the Miramont Country Club on Friday, January 13, 2023.

The evening will begin with cocktails at 6 pm followed by dinner at 7 pm. It is a wonderful opportunity to thank Joe and our other award winners for all of the outstanding support they give to our community.

Brigadier General Joe Ramirez, Jr. is a graduate of Texas A&M University. Prior to being named Vice President for Student Affairs at TAMU, Joe served as the outstanding 45th Commandant of Cadets.

A dynamic speaker and lecturer, Joe enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience on leadership with others. His involvement in the Brazos Valley community is extensive, including serving on numerous boards. 

Joe brings energy, commitment, and passion to all he does, and continues to inspire and lead others with his generous and brave heart. The Museum is proud to honor Joe for all he does for our community

Ellen Thornton has been involved with the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History for many years.

A retired educator, Ellen has over 36 years as an outstanding teacher and administrator, including sharing her knowledge with TAMU students at the Academic Success Center.

Over the years, Ellen has had a prominent role at the Museum as board secretary, treasurer, and chair of the Museum’s “Wish Upon A Butterfly” event. 

The Museum is proud to present Ellen with this long overdue award of 2023 Outstanding Board Trustee.

Dr. Bobby Presley has been involved with the Museum for over 10 years.

An Emeritus Professor of Oceanography, he taught and conducted outstanding research for 33 years. A passionate member of the Bryan/College Station community, Bobby has also been a dedicated volunteer, serving a variety of non-profits.

An avid runner, he has volunteered with the Museum’s Buffalo Stampede 5k/Half Marathon Race for over a decade, assisting with planning, fund raising, & publicity. 

The Museum is very pleased to present Bobby with the 2023 Outstanding Volunteer Award.

Postoak Florist, located in College Station, has helped the Museum in so many ways.

Run by Master Florist Debbie Brooks and her talented team, they have provided beautiful and elegant arrangements, design advice, and other exquisite décor items for the Museum for well over a decade. 

Postoak Florist has served the Brazos Valley for over 36 years, and the Museum is very happy to present this dedicated and talented business with the well-deserved 2023 Outstanding Community Partner Award.

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