The first ever Texas Historical Foundation Michael C. Duda Preservation Awards will take place in April 2024, honoring the memory of architect and former THF board member Michael C. Duda by providing monetary awards for excellence in historic preservation. With a focus on projects making significant contributions to Texas cultural heritage through architectural or archeological preservation efforts, THF seeks to recognize the best of the best in Texas preservation with a top prize of $100,000 towards the completion of the winning project.

Eligible nominees are 501(c)(3) or government organizations working to preserve the physical or architectural history of Texas through a current historic preservation project. For more details, visit Eligibility & Requirements.

Phase One nominations will open online for general submissions June 1, with a submission deadline of August 1, 2023.  

Watch this space for news and updates regarding the 2024 Duda Preservation Awards, and sign up for the mailing list below to receive updates via email. 

Nomination Form Now Available! 

Organizations wishing to throw their hat in the ring for the 2024 Michael C. Duda Preservation Awards can now begin work on their nomination by downloading the Phase One Essay Section form, available below.

Representing the first step toward Award nomination and the top prize of $100,000, the form contains long-form essay questions as well as instructions on compiling supporting documents for your submission.

Completed forms can be submitted on the THF website beginning June 1, with a submission deadline of August 1, 2023. 

"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 a young man unafraid to forge his own path. He founded the now 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 for good 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. 

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.  

Awards