TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
Judy Kelley Morgan presents Ross Perot with an Aggie ring in gratitude for his support of Texas A&M University-Texarkana.
Honoring her father’s legacy, Judy Kelley Morgan with her mother, Hazel Kelley Wilson, at the dedication of the Jack B. Kelley Amphitheater at St. James Day School.
Judy Kelley Morgan with Lyle Lovett at Texas A&M University in 2015, when Lovett received the Distinguished Alumnus Award.
conversation. Often the only woman in the room, Judy once returned from the bathroom during a Board of Regents meeting and quipped, “Okay, who left the toilet seat up?” Her commitment became even more personal in 2019, when Texas A&M University-Texarkana honored her by naming the university soccer field after her. The dedication ceremony, presided over by Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp and TAMU-T President Dr. Emily Cutrer, recognized not just her service as a Regent but her tireless work building the institution. In Dr. Cutrer’s words, “Without her contributions and support, we would simply not be where we are today.” These sentiments are echoed by current TAMU-T President Dr. Ross Alexander. “Regent Emerita Judy Kelley Morgan’s philanthropy and dedication to A&M-Texarkana have been nothing short of transformational, and it has even accelerated since I became president in 2023. She has proven to be a thoughtful and trusted supporter, counselor, advocate, cheerleader, and mentor to both Lilia and me. We cherish our frequent collaborations and interactions. Of special note is Judy’s vision and dedication to the inordinately successful Women for A&M-Texarkana organization. Its annual Gourmet Dinner is the signature university social event of the year, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to support our fine students directly. Judy’s passion and dedication to A&M-Texarkana and to me personally are something I deeply respect and cherish.” Indeed, Judy helped found and lead Women for Texas A&M University-Texarkana, transforming what could have been a simple giving circle into a powerful engine for scholarships and campus support. The model is elegant in its effectiveness. Gather women who care about their community, focus their generosity strategically, and watch as lives change one scholarship at a time. Judy brings that same vision to healthcare. As a member of the CHRISTUS St. Michael Foundation Board of Directors, she helps
ensure exceptional medical care remains accessible to local families. The Kelley and Morgan Families Foundation appears among the hospital’s Ruby-Level sponsors, reflecting a commitment that goes beyond check writing to genuine partnership in the mission of healing. Her past presidency of the Wadley Regional Medical Center Foundation rounds out a comprehensive record of strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the region. Whether funding new technology, supporting patient programs, or investing in facilities, Judy understands that keeping quality care local is a matter of community survival. Her leadership at Opportunities, Inc. demonstrates another dimension of her commitment. She has opened her home for the organization’s Annual Autumn Luncheon, one of those signature Texarkana gatherings where friendship and fundraising blend seamlessly. Her home, regal and inviting, has welcomed Boy Scouts, book clubs, governors, and dignitaries alike, serving as a meeting ground for friends, family, nonprofits, and political leaders. Most recently, she opened her home to rally support for LifeWise Academy, hosting a gathering that turned conversation into tangible support for the program’s work in Texarkana. It is classic Judy, using her hospitality to connect people with causes that matter, making generosity feel less like duty and more like shared purpose. Ask Judy why the arts matter, and she will not give you platitudes about enrichment or quality of life. She will talk about how creativity knits communities together, how concerts and exhibitions give people a shared vocabulary, and how arts education opens minds in ways that traditional academics sometimes cannot reach. Since 2008, Judy’s patronage has enabled the James Herrin Piano Festival, a collaboration between the Texarkana Music Teachers Association and Texarkana College, to grow into the region’s largest and longest-running piano event. It features guest
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
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