What is The Dee Howard Foundation?
Established in July 2013, The Dee Howard Foundation was born out of a deep commitment to honor the legacy of legendary aviation pioneer Dee Howard. Dee’s children, Dee Ann Bridges and Lonnie Dean Howard, teamed up with his long-time friend and former Senior Vice President and General Counsel of The Dee Howard Co., Wayne I. Fagan, to create The Dee Howard Foundation Fund at the San Antonio Area Foundation. This initiative was designed to preserve and celebrate the rich history of aviation in San Antonio—a history in which Dee Howard played an influential part—and to expand upon that heritage through innovative educational programs, including the DHF Pre-K thru 12 Aeronautical STEM Pathway and other vital initiatives.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Key benefits and facts include:
- Founded in July 2013 by the children of a celebrated aviation entrepreneur, ensuring a direct link to an enduring legacy.
- Partnered with Wayne I. Fagan, a specialist with extensive experience as a Senior Vice President and General Counsel, reinforcing strong leadership.
- Supported by the San Antonio Area Foundation, with donations securely managed, providing a reliable financial backbone.
- Transitioned in December 2016 to a Texas nonprofit corporation with 501C(3) status, ensuring continued operational strength.
- Focuses on preserving aviation history and nurturing new generations of aerospace innovators through world-class educational programming.
Preserving San Antonio’s Aviation Heritage
At its heart, The Dee Howard Foundation is dedicated to preserving a significant piece of San Antonio’s illustrious aviation history. The foundation honors the contributions of not only Dee Howard but also other aviation pioneers like Ed Swearingen, whose efforts helped shape the local aviation landscape. Among its initiatives, the foundation hosts the San Antonio Aviation and Aerospace Hall of Fame Annual Awards Dinner, a celebrated event that shines a bright light on remarkable achievements and lasting legacies. This work is carried out with a blend of reverence and forward-thinking ambition… ensuring that the stories of the past continue to inspire future generations.
Building a Sustainable Future
In December 2016, the evolution of the foundation reached a new milestone with the establishment of a Texas nonprofit corporation—an operational arm that underpins all of its activities. This transformation was more than just an administrative adjustment; it provided the necessary structure and sustainability for ongoing success. The Texas entity manages day-to-day operations, while the original fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, maintains a robust endowment and allocates grants that further the foundation’s mission. Such a strategic move ensures that the legacy of aviation innovation remains both preserved and primed for future expansion, cleverly bridging history with modern educational imperatives.
Inspiring Future Aerospace Innovators
The foundation’s mission is to inspire, educate, and secure access for San Antonio youth to pursue careers in aerospace. Its vision is clear—youth will be provided with world-class experiences and opportunities that will ultimately mold them into contributors to future aerospace innovation. By partnering with key players in industry, technology, and education, the foundation builds intimate connections that cultivate talent and ignite ambition. This approach is like opening a window to endless possibilities, where casual encounters with cutting-edge technology meet rigorous, inspirational educational pathways. Educational initiatives such as the Pre-K thru 12 Aeronautical STEM Pathway have been especially impactful, targeting underserved students and ensuring they are not left behind.
Honoring Heritage through Education and Community Engagement
Beyond the well-established programs and dazzling awards ceremonies, The Dee Howard Foundation is committed to education and community engagement in various forms. Its initiatives are not just about celebrating a storied past but also about constructing a bridge to the future. The foundation actively fosters a spirit of collaboration across multiple community partners, employing dynamic educational programming and social media storytelling to reach a broader audience. This blend of tradition and innovation paves the way for creative projects that honor San Antonio’s heritage, all while setting the stage for the next generation to excel in aerospace.
Project Impact
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Providing accessible, high-quality STEM education to support youth development.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Fostering an ecosystem that encourages innovation in aerospace and related fields.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Building strong community and industry partnerships that propel forward sustainable change.
Looking Forward: Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, The Dee Howard Foundation is set to continue its dual commitment to preserving San Antonio’s rich aviation legacy and inspiring new generations of innovators. There is a palpable excitement in the air—a sense that the foundation is continuously reaching out to embrace emerging trends and fresh ideas. By extending its Pre-K through 12 Aeronautical STEM Pathway initiatives and engaging with a broader spectrum of community partners, the foundation is not just looking back with pride but also forward with determination. Its dedication to educational outreach, robust community alliances, and the celebration of local history places it at the forefront of cultural and technological advancement. Through ongoing investments in both legacy and innovation, the foundation ensures that the story of San Antonio’s aviation heritage remains a living, breathing narrative, constantly evolving and inspiring countless young minds.
