George Strait Named Texan of the Year

Pictured (L-R): Doug Miller, Former Texas State Representative and 52nd Annual Texas Legislative Conference Chair; Texan of the Year George Strait; Mary Jane Nalley, an owner of Gruene Hall; and Robin Jeffers, New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce Board Chair. Photo: Rick Diamond for Getty Images

George Strait has been named “Texan of the Year” by the Texas Legislative Conference. At the 52nd annual statewide forum taking place at the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce on Friday, March 23, Strait joined an array of prominent honorees including former U.S. Presidents, Senators, Congressmen, Governors and innovators.

Strait was recognized for his many contributions to the state of Texas throughout the years, particularly within the last year for his role leading recovery efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Harvey. Strait organized relief efforts beginning with the “Hand in Hand” Texas benefit concert and telethon. Calling on friends Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, Lyle Lovett and Robert Earl Keen, the concert, broadcast live from The Majestic Theater in San Antonio last fall, helped directly raise over $22 million towards hurricane recovery.

Hurricane Harvey ties Hurricane Katrina as the costliest storm to impact the U.S., inflicting damage of over $125 billion and displacing more than 30,000 residents.