UT Health Northeast President Dr. Kirk Calhoun, Development Board Chairman Mike Allen, and UT Health Northeast 2016 Galaxy Award co-chairs Marilyn Abegg-Glass and Skip Ogle, pose in front of a recently unveiled portrait of Louise H. and Joseph Z. Ornelas at UT Health. The 3rd Annual Galaxy Award event set for September 13 at Green Acres Baptist Church CrossWalk Conference Center will honor Mr. and Mrs. Ornelas for their philanthropy.

Officials with UT Health Northeast announced that Tyler philanthropists Joseph Z. and Louise H. Ornelas will be the recipients of the 2016 Galaxy Award during a dinner and ceremony Sept. 13, at Green Acres Baptist Church CrossWalk Conference Center.

“The numerous heartfelt gifts that the Ornelas’ have given to so many institutions, including UT Health Northeast, have improved healthcare, education, and quality of life for all of us in East Texas,” UT Health President Dr. Kirk A. Calhoun said. “Their contributions to our institution have been key to expansion on many areas of our campus. Their leadership and generosity is inspiring. There is no other couple more deserving of the Galaxy Award. We are grateful and honored that they have agreed to accept it, and I look forward to presenting it to them.”

UT Health Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Chief Development Officer Derrith Bondurant said that the Galaxy Award was created both to spotlight stars of philanthropy and to raise scholarship funds for students in healthcare and research.

“The reach and commitment of the Ornelas’ philanthropy goes far beyond Tyler and East Texas. Their hearts are deep with love for many different organizations, including UT Health. We are fortunate that they call Tyler home,” she said.

The evening event is open to the public and also will recognize former recipients Marilyn and John Glass and Melvina and Herb Buie. For sponsorships, underwriting and ticket information contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 903-877-5135.