Texas Historical Foundation is proud to host the biennial Michael C. Duda Preservation Awards
The Texas Historical Foundation's Michael C. Duda Preservation Awards pay tribute to the legacy of architect and former THF board member Michael C. Duda by acknowledging outstanding contributions to architectural preservation efforts in Texas, providing monetary awards up to $100,000 for ongoing and significant architectural preservation projects.
Winning projects exemplify the vital role of architectural preservation in shaping Texas communities and the spirit of service that characterized Michael's life and legacy.
2026 Awards
We are excited to announce that the Duda Preservation Awards will return in 2026, recognizing four organizations for outstanding contributions to the preservation of historic Texas architecture.
Nominations will be accepted via the THF Grants Portal beginning June 9, with a submission deadline of August 8, 2025. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government agencies with an active, significant architectural preservation project and a track record of excellence in the preservation of Texas history.
Successful entries demonstrate a record of achievement in the preservation of historic architecture and have an ongoing preservation project that is notable both in terms of historical significance and benefit to the public. Visit Eligibility & Requirements to learn more, and be sure to join the dedicated Duda Awards Mailing List to receive important news and updates about the 2026 Awards.
| Top Prize | $100,000 | Winner of the 2026 Duda Preservation Award will receive $100,000 towards the completion of their preservation project |
| Second Place | $30,000 | Runner up will receive $30,000 towards their project |
| Third Place | $20,000 | Third place winner will receive $20,000 for use in their preservation project |
| Directors' Award | $10,000 | The recipient of the honorable mention Directors' Award will receive an award of $10,000 |
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About Michael C. Duda
"I hope I will never take for granted the variety of experiences Texas offers, and if given the opportunity would be glad to help preserve everything that has made this state the best in the nation." - Michael C. Duda
Born in Dallas in 1981, Michael found a passion and wonder for Texas history at an early age. While characterized by family and friends as "a man for others," Michael was also unafraid to forge his own path. He founded the nationally competitive Jesuit Rugby Club as a high school student before departing the state to pursue a degree in architecture at the University of Notre Dame.
While he travelled the world throughout his life, his heart always belonged to Texas, and it was never long before he returned to his home state. He made his way back to Dallas in 2007, where he applied his passion for historic architecture to his work in real estate and as a beloved member of the Texas Historical Foundation board of directors.
THF is honored to offer this award in the same spirit of service and enthusiasm for the preservation of Texas heritage that characterized Michael's life and legacy.
"Michael Duda" by Mark Birnbaum Productions (2024)
